Beyond Rankings: Why Queensland Is Emerging As A Top Study Destination For Indian Students

The global study abroad landscape is evolving as students and families adopt a more practical approach when choosing international education destinations. While university rankings once dominated decision-making, today’s students look beyond prestige. Factors such as employability, affordability, quality of life, and long-term career opportunities now play a crucial role.

Within this shifting landscape, Queensland— Australia’s second-largest state—is increasingly attracting the attention of Indian students. The region offers a combination of globally recognised education, strong industry connections, and a supportive environment for international learners. These factors are positioning Queensland as an emerging destination for those seeking a balanced and career-focused international education experience.

Globally recognised academic ecosystem

Queensland’s education system is supported by more than 350 education providers and 339 research institutions. Many of these institutions are internationally recognised, offering programmes that meet global academic standards across higher education, vocational training, and research. Fields such as management and commerce, information technology, healthcare, and engineering are particularly popular among international students. These disciplines closely align with global labour market demands, allowing graduates to develop skills that are relevant in an increasingly interconnected workforce. As a result, students leave with qualifications that carry international recognition and practical value.

Affordable living beyond major cities

Another factor drawing Indian students to Queensland is the growing appeal of its regional cities. While Brisbane and the Gold Coast remain prominent education hubs, nearly 30% of international students now study outside Brisbane. Cities such as Toowoomba, Cairns, Townsville, and the Sunshine Coast offer relatively lower living costs compared to larger metropolitan centres. Despite being smaller, these cities maintain strong academic support systems and industry partnerships. This balance of affordability and academic quality makes them particularly attractive to students seeking cost-effective education without compromising on opportunities.

Education linked with career outcomes

For many Indian students, employability remains a decisive factor when choosing a destination. Queensland’s education sector has responded by strengthening connections between universities, training providers, and industry. Programmes are increasingly designed to include practical components such as internships, industry placements, and skills-based training. These elements help students develop job-ready capabilities while studying. The international education sector itself supports more than 26,000 jobs in Queensland, reflecting a strong ecosystem that connects education with real economic activity and employment opportunities.

Growing Indian community

Queensland has already established itself as a trusted destination for Indian students. As of October 2025, more than 21,500 Indian students were enrolled in the state, accounting for 15 % of total international enrolments. This makes India the second-largest source of international students in Queensland. The number of Indian students has grown by 5.8% over the previous year, reflecting rising interest in the region. At the national level, India is also the second-largest contributor to Australia’s education-related export revenue, generating AUD 9.3 billion in the 2024–25 financial year.

Beyond academics, Queensland offers a welcoming and diverse social environment. Students from more than 160 countries study in the state, creating a multicultural community that helps international learners adapt easily. Queensland’s favourable climate, reputation for safety, and strong student support networks further enhance its appeal. For Indian students and their families, the state offers not only academic opportunities but also a balanced lifestyle that supports both personal well-being and professional growth.

(The author is Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner, South Asia, Trade and Investment Queensland, Australia)

Published on: Monday, March 16, 2026, 09:50 AM IST