Australian student visas: Top pick for Indians in 2025
Australia has overtaken traditional destinations like the United States and the United Kingdom to become the preferred study-abroad choice for Indian students, according to a March 2025 survey by global education firm IDP Education. The survey reveals that 28% of Indian students now favor Australia, compared to 22% for the U.S. and 21% for the U.K., signaling a notable shift in global education trends.
Strong Appeal Despite Financial Hurdles
Australia's rise in popularity comes despite growing concerns over affordability and increasing visa fees. As of July 2024, the Australian government raised student visa charges from A$710 to A$1,600, and further hikes to A$2,000 are expected if the ruling Labor Party secures re-election. These developments have sparked debate among prospective international students and education providers alike.
Still, Australia's robust education infrastructure and post-study work opportunities continue to draw Indian students. The country is home to 15 universities ranked among the world's top 200 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. The Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) has also played a pivotal role by enhancing post-study work rights for Indian graduates.
Safety, Quality of Life, and Employment Drive Choices
Safety, quality of life, and a welcoming environment remain critical factors in Australia’s growing popularity. Indian families increasingly view the country as a secure and student-friendly destination. In addition, the streamlined transition from study to employment, supported by favorable immigration pathways, further boosts its appeal.
However, challenges persist. According to the IDP survey, 66% of Indian students cite financial constraints as a major concern, and 55% say that the availability of scholarships significantly influences their study destination choice. Rising living costs and tighter visa scrutiny — including stricter English proficiency requirements and regulation of education providers — have added layers of complexity to the visa process.
Global Competition and Shifting Trends
Australia’s ascendancy coincides with growing dissatisfaction among Indian students with other countries. Canada, for example, has seen a significant drop in preference—from 19% to just 13%—largely due to policy uncertainty and extended visa processing times. In the U.S., lengthy visa wait times ranging from 7.5 to 13 months in Indian cities have deterred many potential applicants.
While the global study-abroad landscape remains competitive, Australia’s strategic education and immigration policies appear to be paying off — positioning it as a leading destination for international talent from India.
Conclusion
Despite higher costs and more rigorous visa requirements, Australia's high-quality education system, extended post-study work rights, and reputation for safety and opportunity have made it the top choice for Indian students in 2025. As global dynamics evolve, continued efforts to balance accessibility with quality assurance will be key to sustaining this upward trend.