India is worried about the financial impact on Indian students after Australia increased the cost of its international student visa by more than 100%.

Due to the possible effects on international students, Australia’s recent intention to more than quadruple its student visa price has attracted significant attention, especially from India. The tuition increase, which goes into effect on July 1, 2024, brings up significant issues regarding accessibility and affordability for Indian students studying in Australia.

Details of the Fee Increase

The price of an international student visa in Australia will increase from AUD 710 (about ₹38,930) to AUD 1,600 (roughly ₹87,731) on July 1, 2024. In stark contrast to the old fee structure, which many students budgeted for, this implies an increase of more than 100%.

Indian Government’s Response

The Indian government has explicitly raised concerns about this large cost rise. To alleviate the possible financial load on Indian students, officials have been in communication with their Australian counterparts.

The Minister of State for External Affairs affirmed the government’s vigorous efforts to draw Australia’s attention to this matter in a written statement to the Rajya Sabha. In order to lessen the impact on Indian students and improve educational cooperation between the two countries, the statement emphasized continued negotiations.

Impact on Indian Students

One of the biggest groups of international students in Australia, Indian students, are feeling anxious as a result of this substantial fee increase. The higher expenses may make studying in Australia less affordable for students, which could have an impact on enrolment patterns in the future. The financial burden could force students to reevaluate their course of study or look at other options for further education.

Strengthening Bilateral Educational Ties

The Indian government emphasized the value of the India-Australia educational collaboration in spite of the cost increase. A key component of deeper bilateral ties, officials stressed, is the educational exchange between the two nations, which fosters academic cooperation, cultural understanding, and economic cooperation.

Ongoing Dialogue and Future Implications

There are legitimate worries about how the Australian government’s intention to raise the cost of student visas will affect Indian students. Ongoing diplomatic initiatives, however, seek to resolve these problems while bolstering Australia and India’s long-standing cultural and educational ties.