Indian students planning to study in Australia will face higher costs starting July 1, 2024.
The Australian government has raised the student visa fee from 710 Australian dollars (Rs 38,400) to 1,600 Australian dollars (Rs 88,000).
This marks a significant increase of more than double the previous fee.
Impact on Indian Students
The fee hike is expected to make it harder for many Indian students to afford studying in Australia.
Australia has long been a popular destination for higher education, but the 126% increase in visa fees will add a substantial financial burden.
Indian students, especially from middle-class families, are already facing high tuition fees, accommodation costs, and other living expenses.
This increase in visa fees comes at a time when the cost of living and food is rising worldwide, making studying abroad more challenging.
Many students may now rethink their plans to study in Australia due to these added costs. Students who are relying on loans will be particularly affected.
The Indian government has already raised concerns about this fee increase with Australian officials.
Financial Burden on Students
The rise in visa fees is a major shock for Indian students, especially since Australia has long been a top choice for higher education.
The 126% increase in the visa fee will add to the financial pressure already faced by students, particularly from middle-class families.
Students already spend large amounts of money on tuition, accommodation, and other living expenses.
The new fee increase of 890 Australian dollars means the overall cost of studying in Australia will go up.
With the high cost of living and food globally, many students may now reconsider their decision to study abroad.
This hike in fees will especially affect students who rely on loans to pay for their education.
