International students return to Australia as borders open and cities are adopting their pilot programs. Students are eager as New South Wales and Victoria have approved foreign students in higher education to begin their journey. With COVID-19 safety measures in Australia, international students need not worry about the pandemic.
However, international students are riddled with concerns about the quarantine costs and university tuition fees that are weighing them down. As the government is prioritizing students based on their majors, students are worried they are tied up with unfair costs. International students in Australia have paid hefty sums for benefits, tuition and infrastructure and on-campus experiences. But with campuses only opening for certain courses, students are forced to study online and pay complete tuition.
What is Australia’s Pilot Plan?
The pilot plan will see international students return to Australia in phases. Education is an important economical contributor in Australia and international students are critical to Australia’s growth.
All vaccinated international students in Australia will have to undergo mandatory quarantine either for a fortnight or a week. Quarantine is expected to be free in New South Wales, whereas Victoria has not yet decided who will pay.
Which Vaccines are Approved for International Travelers in Australia
As the pandemic continues, international students’ return to Australia will be carried out in extensive phases to ensure all students and citizens are safe. Currently, in Australia, international students who are vaccinated with Coronavac (Sinovac) and Covishield (Astra Zeneca) can enter the country. This news has encouraged prospective students to get vaccinated and plan their transition into the country in December.
In Australia, international students in higher education contributed around $40 billion annually during the pre-COVID era. In 2021, international students’ return to Australia was restricted due to a lack of information about COVID-19 and safety measures. As campuses were closed in Australia, international students were left with online lectures. 130,000 international students enrolled in Australian universities this year, which saw a stark decrease by 210,000 this year.
