Australia preferred destination for studies

Australia is emerging as one of the most favoured destinations, after the US and UK, for Indians aspiring to study abroad.

"The number of Indians traveling to Australia for higher studies is expected to exceed 10 thousand this year, from eight thousand last year," Vinod Malhotra, manager, administration and finance, India, IDP Education Australia Ltd.

A research by IDP Education has predicted that demand for higher education in Australia from India will surge over the next two decades, from just over 4,000 students in 2000 to around 90 thousand in the year 2025.

Though India has some of the best institutes like the IIMs and IITs, the number of seats available are few compared to the large number of applicants, depriving many deserving students of quality education. Australia has emerged as a preferred option for such students.

The comparative cost of studying in Australia, including tuition fees and living costs, is around $15,000 "" almost one-third of the cost for similar courses in the US and UK. Australian universities are also preferred as the courses there provide ample opportunities for employment.

"There is more than 100 per cent increase in the number of people opting for Australia to pursue their higher studies. Australia is definitely one of the most preferred destinations, not only because of the opportunities it offers but because it is one of the most reasonable destinations in terms of costs of living," said Henry A S Ledlie, director, IDP Education.