The 2020 Irish Survey of Student Engagement, detailed in Ireland’s Education Yearbook, shows that nearly 45,000 students participated, marking the highest engagement since the survey’s inception1. The survey indicates that 80% of students rated their overall educational experience as good or excellent. Additionally, 71% of students felt that lecturers clearly explained course goals and requirements, and 58% believed their institutions provided adequate academic support. These findings suggest that many students are satisfied with their educational experiences and the support they receive from their institutions.

Despite these positive trends, a recent article from The Irish Times highlights a significant challenge: Irish students are less likely to engage with complex information compared to their peers in other Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. This issue is particularly concerning as it impacts students’ ability to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in both academic and professional settings. The article suggests that this gap may be due to a lack of emphasis on higher-order learning and integrative thinking in the curriculum.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a profound impact on higher education in Ireland. According to the Education Yearbook, the sudden shift to online learning in March 2020 forced institutions to adapt quickly. While this transition was challenging, it also led to some positive outcomes. For instance, pass rates increased slightly, which some attribute to students having more time for revision due to the closure of social venues. However, the pandemic also highlighted the digital divide, with many students struggling to access reliable internet for their studies.

Looking ahead, there are calls for a renewed focus on enhancing student engagement with complex information. This includes integrating more opportunities for higher-order learning and critical thinking into the curriculum. Additionally, there is a need to address the digital divide to ensure all students have equal access to online learning resources.

The pre-departure sessions are designed to provide comprehensive information and resources to help students adjust to life in Ireland. Representatives from prominent universities such as Dublin City University, Technological University Shannon, the National College of Ireland, and Maynooth University participated in these events. They covered a wide range of topics, including cultural adjustment, visa procedures, packing tips, budgeting, accommodation, and healthcare in Ireland.

The sessions emphasized the importance of cultural adjustment and provided insights into Irish culture and campus life. Students were informed about various support services available to them, including student support services and cultural exchange programs.

Visa officials were present to elaborate on the student visa process and share key tips for a seamless application. This guidance is crucial for students to ensure they meet all the requirements and avoid any last-minute hassles.

Practical advice on packing, budgeting, and accommodation was provided to help students prepare for their stay in Ireland. This included tips on what to pack, how to manage finances, and options for student housing.

Information on accessing healthcare in Ireland was also shared, ensuring that students are aware of the healthcare facilities and services available to them. This is particularly important for international students who may be unfamiliar with the healthcare system in a new country.

University representatives highlighted the importance of addressing students’ concerns and obstacles to ensure a positive and enriching experience. Greg Van Buskirk from the International Student Experience Office at Technological University Shannon Global stated, “We understand the concerns and obstacles that students face when making such life-changing leaps to study in a different country and culture. Our goal is to ensure a seamless transition and to be there for our students every step of the way”.

Angela McKenna, Senior Executive for Outward Mobility at Maynooth University, expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I am delighted to be here in India to meet with students who will be studying at Maynooth University in September. We look forward to welcoming students to our beautiful green campus, where they will experience the highest standard of education and receive full support from our academic and international teams as they build their future careers”.

Ireland has seen a significant increase in the number of Indian students choosing it as their study destination. In 2023, over 7,000 Indian students opted for higher education in Ireland, a substantial rise from just 700 in 2013. This growth can be attributed to Ireland’s comprehensive education system, practical approach to learning, and affordable cost compared to other popular destinations.

The pre-departure sessions organized by Irish universities reflect Ireland’s commitment to supporting international students and ensuring they have a positive and enriching experience. By providing essential information and resources, these sessions help students prepare for their academic journey and adjust to life in a new country. As Ireland continues to emerge as a top destination for Indian students, initiatives like these play a crucial role in fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for international learners.

Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil stated, “The changes coming into force today will help restore integrity to our international education system, and create a migration system which is fairer, smaller, and better able to deliver for Australia.”

This change is part of a broader strategy by the Australian government to tighten migration rules following a surge in net immigration, which reached a record 548,800 people in the year leading up to September 30, 2023. This spike, partly driven by the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, has intensified pressure on Australia’s already strained housing market.

Comparative Costs

The new fee structure makes studying in Australia considerably more expensive compared to other popular destinations. In the United States, a student visa costs about $185 (€170), while in Canada, it is approximately C$150 (€102). This disparity could influence the decisions of prospective international students considering their options.

Closing Loopholes

In addition to the fee hike, the government has introduced measures to close loopholes in visa regulations. Previously, many foreign students extended their stay in Australia by applying for multiple student visas. The number of students on a second or subsequent student visa surged by over 30% to more than 150,000 in the 2022-23 period. The new rules ban visitor visa holders and students with temporary graduate visas from applying onshore for a student visa, aiming to curtail this trend.

Impact on Universities

The policy shift has raised concerns within the education sector. Universities Australia CEO Luke Sheehy expressed worries that the continued pressure on the sector could undermine Australia’s competitive edge in international education. “This is not good for our economy or our universities, both of which rely heavily on international student fees,” Sheehy noted.

International education is a critical component of Australia’s economy, contributing billions annually. The recent changes, including tightening English language requirements and increasing the savings needed for a visa to A$29,710 from A$24,505, represent the second increase in about seven months, reflecting a stringent stance by the government.