University leaders are sounding the alarm over declining international student enrollments, attributing the drop to visa uncertainty and a contentious immigration debate. This trend is particularly affecting regional universities, raising concerns about potential financial deficits that could impact domestic students.
Current Enrollment Statistics
According to the latest figures from the Department of Education in October, universities are filling only about two-thirds of their allocated international student places. Notably, just five public universities have surpassed 80% capacity, all located in capital cities.
Mike Ferguson, pro vice-chancellor of international students at Charles Sturt University, reported that his institution has filled only 40% of its cap this year. He stated:
“"At the moment, we’re around 35% down on where we were last year, and we had expected to grow from last year. Currently, we only have 20% of the international student volume we had prior to the pandemic."
Ferguson highlighted that the gap between pre-COVID international student recruitment and current numbers is costing the university approximately $35 million, prompting job cuts and restructuring.
Factors Contributing to Decline
Ferguson attributed the decline to several government policies, including:
- Increased visa application fees of $2,500
- High visa refusal rates, particularly affecting students from South Asia, which are around 53%
- Political rhetoric from the Coalition and One Nation targeting international students
He noted that these factors not only deter genuine students but also discourage new applicants due to the high costs and low chances of obtaining a visa.
