The University of Wollongong denied allegations that it, along with four other Australian universities, had placed restrictions on Indian students from certain states due to fraudulent visa applications. The university states that it has strict admission criteria for all students and does not have any additional limitations for Indian applicants.
Instead, the university has streamlined its application process for all international students, including Indian students. The university also claims to monitor enrollment fraud trends and work closely with the Australian Department of Home Affairs to ensure the authenticity of applications.
The Indian student population is the largest international group at the university, with over 2,500 enrolled. An inquiry into the sector was told by the International Education Association of Australia chief executive that Australia's tertiary education has turned into a "Ponzi scheme" as education agencies entice international students to unsuitable courses with the promise of unrestricted work access.
Students are often exploited by employers who take advantage of their lack of familiarity with local work requirements.