Australia, which has one of the fastest visa processing systems in the world, is now seen as the first choice of destination for Indian women students.
Australia, which has one of the fastest visa processing systems in the world, is now seen as the first choice of destination for Indian women students.
The number of Indian women coming to Australia for education is on the rise – proving the country’s continuing attractiveness to international students, according to a senior commissioner from Austrade.
Monica Kennedy, who serves as Austrade’s senior trade and investment commissioner, highlighted the trend of women choosing Australia for education, research opportunities, and global career prospects due to the country’s reputation as a safe, welcoming, and supportive destination.
The percentage of Indian women students pursuing higher education in Australia increased from 39 percent in 2019-20 to 45 percent in 2021-22. However, it dropped to 41 percent in the subsequent year and plateaued in the current year. This does not include other education streams such as vocational education, which make up 33 percent of the education sector.
The data show a growing interest in undergraduate education in Australia. In 2022, undergraduate students made up 30 percent of the Indian student cohort, while postgraduate students constituted the remaining 70 percent.
Visa processing and Australia’s attractiveness as a study destination
Kennedy added that 70,231 Indian students enrolled in Australian campuses last year, bringing the total number of Indian students in Australia to 100,302. This year, approximately 47,751 students have enrolled in the first intake. The total will likely exceed last year’s figures.
The senior commissioner also noted that Australia is now seen as the first choice of destination for students. Visa issues that cropped up last year have mostly been resolved, she said.
Australia now has one of the fastest visa processing systems in the world, with the usual processing time taking only 10 days.
Australia also remains the top choice for Indian students seeking international higher education opportunities due to its perceived ease of entry and lack of barriers such as the need for GRE or GMAT scores.
