The Australian economy gains $7.5 billion a year from international students studying at Australian institutions.

Australian Business schools are under threat from rival schools in Asia as part of the global battle to attract students and faculty members.

Indian institutions increased their popularity with Asian students as they have increased their share of applications by 400%.

Factors that have aided in the decline of the national MBA market include the booming economy that is producing promotion opportunities without the need for further study. Also busy executives no longer having time for part-time study and international students prefer to study for professional masters degrees, such as accountancy as they attract extra points when applying for permanent residency.

Other factors that are contributing to the increasing number if Asian students seeking MBA courses in their own region are difficulties in applying for a student visa in western countries, high fees and relocation costs.

Overseas competitors are challenging Australian graduate teaching in Australia with the launch of the first foreign university campus.
(July 20-26, p16)