Executive Summary | Feb 2025

At Voyage, we are committed to tracking trends in the education industry with a student-first approach. This month, we are excited to launch a new blog series featuring Voyage’s Head of Student Insight and Strategy, Varsha Balakrishnan, who will share key takeaways from our latest monthly executive summary report. Each edition will explore a critical theme shaping international education today.

Spotlight: Education Outcomes

The first edition focuses on Education Outcomes, offering fresh insights into the experiences of international students in Australia. Drawing on data from our award-winning #TheSocialSource platform, this report examines major factors influencing student experiences, including academic quality, employability, and workforce readiness.

Australia continues to be a leading study destination, known for its world-class education, diverse, multicultural environment, and strong post-study work opportunities. However, international students face increasing challenges, particularly around affordability, visa processes, and employment pathways.

Key Findings: The Student Experience in Australia

Affordability & Housing Pressures

• Cost-of-living concerns are rising, with rental shortages and financial insecurity impacting student well-being.
  Reports of rental scams, illegal subletting, withheld bond refunds, and landlords demanding upfront payments are growing.

Visa Uncertainty & Migration Policy Challenges

• Many students are frustrated by visa processing delays and shifting migration policies, creating uncertainty about their future in Australia.
• Compared to Australia, countries like Germany, Ireland, and New Zealand are perceived as more affordable and structured study destinations.

The Global Competitive Landscape

• Canada and the UK have introduced tighter immigration controls, causing a drop in student visa approvals and prompting students to explore alternative destinations.
• Australia remains well-positioned but must strengthen employability pathways, financial support, and housing initiatives to stay competitive.

The Role of Institutions in Supporting Student Success

Public Perception & Media Representation

• International students are often scapegoated for issues like housing affordability and job competition.
• Sentiment analysis indicates declining positivity in media discourse, making public engagement efforts more critical.

Building Community Trust & Tackling Misconceptions

• Community engagement programs, such as those by Study Melbourne, are helping students integrate through networking and volunteering.
• Public awareness campaigns (e.g., Canada’s Global Skills Opportunity Program) could challenge misconceptions about the economic impact of international students.

Programme Relevance & Employability

• Many students feel their courses lack industry relevance, particularly in STEM and technical fields.
• Stronger industry partnerships, accreditation improvements, and curriculum updates are needed to align education with workforce demands.
  

Vocational Education & Training (VET) Sector Challenges

• Concerns around fraudulent practices and safety risks have affected the credibility of VET qualifications.
• Addressing these issues is critical to restoring trust and ensuring VET remains a viable pathway for students.

Global Workforce Readiness

• Institutions must prepare graduates for a competitive global workforce by integrating career readiness training, internships, and employer collaborations.

Stay Ahead with the Latest Student Insights!

The education landscape is evolving rapidly, and staying informed is essential. As a leading EdTech company, Voyage provides cutting-edge student insights to help institutions strategically position themselves, meet student needs, and stay ahead of industry demands.