Why Australia remains a top study destination for Indian international students despite rising visa fees

Australia has once again increased its student visa fee, which now stands at AUD $2,000—making it the highest of its kind globally. Yet, the country continues to attract a large number of international students, particularly from India, who represent the second-largest cohort by nationality. For many Indian students, the appeal of Australia extends beyond education—it's also about community, culture, and a sense of belonging.

Indian migrants who participated in the International Student Summit held in Melbourne's Town Hall. Credit: Background: Pexels, Foreground: SBS Punjabi

Sandeep Singh, who came to Australia as an international student, says living in Melbourne doesn’t feel like being away from home.

For him, the gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and Indian restaurants across Victoria act as a 'safe space away from home.'

Sandeep Singh, an international student in Melbourne from Punjab in India. Credit: SBS Punjabi

“I get to learn a lot more than just from my education. Melbourne is a multicultural city—you get to experience cultures and traditions from all over the world right here.”

But for him, the most unique thing about Melbourne was “the sorry and thank you.”

“People here say ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’ a lot.

“Sometimes I feel like this is dwindling from our culture, but it’s alive here. These two words make us more polite and harmonious towards each other,” said Singh, while attending an International Student Summit at Melbourne Town Hall.

Singh is among thousands of students from India who choose to study in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 201,490 international students arrived in Australia in February 2025.

Sarabjit Singh, migrant from India. Credit: SBS Punjabi

For Sarabjit Singh, an international student turned working professional, it was the coffee culture that stood out.

Chandigarh-based Shaurya, who arrived in Australia just a month ago to pursue a master’s in architecture, came with a bucket list of adventures to fulfil in the land Down Under.

Sharya, an international student from Chandigarh in India. Credit: SBS Punjabi

Her favourite so far? Cycling along the beach.

To know what Indian international students love about Australia, listen to this podcast:

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Why Australia remains a top study destination for Indian international students despite rising visa fees

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