More Vietnamese nationals studying in Australia

The Vietnamese students include those at high school, college and university levels, including vocational programs and short-term English language programs, according to the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

At all levels, the number of Vietnamese students has increased by up to 108% compared to the same period last year, especially for English language programs. At university levels in particular, just shy of 18,000 Vietnamese students are currently studying in Australia, an increase of 31%.

Among all international students studying in Australia, the number of Vietnamese is ranked fifth among the groups. Abul Rizvi, former Deputy Secretary of the Department of Immigration, said the figures were recorded before the Australian government applied visa restriction measures for international students, intended to manage the number of immigrants into the country.

In February, Australia only allowed international students to stay in the country for up to four years after graduation, instead of six years like before. English proficiency requirements for international students have also become tougher starting March, with IELTS scores of at least 6.0 required, a 0.5 points increase from before.

International students would also need to undergo the Genuine Student Test to make sure that their visa would be for educational purposes. A second visa application for an extended stay would be scrutinized more carefully.

Back in May, Australia also increased its financial proofing requirement to AUD29,700 ($19,450), a 20% increase compared to previous years. The cost for visa application to study abroad has also increased to AUD1,600 starting this month, double the previous sum.

Universities and vocational schools in Australia may have limits on the number of international students admitted, starting next year.