Pakistan Student Visa Refusal Trends: Comparing 2022–23 and 2024–25 for the UK & Australia

Understanding how visa refusal trends have evolved over the past few years can help Pakistani students make more informed decisions when choosing study destinations. Here’s an overview comparing refusal rates across two major study countries — the UK and Australia.

United Kingdom

• In 2022–23, the overall sponsored study visa issuance to main applicants stood above pre-COVID levels.
• By 2024, the UK issued approximately 393,125 study visas to main applicants, marking a 14% decline from the previous year.
  • Issuances to Pakistani students contributed to this trend, alongside large drops for Indian (–26%) and Nigerian (–68%) applicants.
    ICEF Monitor
• Q1 2025 data shows visa grant rates for Pakistan dropping to 74%, down 8 percentage points from 2024 — indicating a refusal rate around 26%.

Trend Summary – UK:
Visa refusals climbed from around early 2020s levels (~10–15%) to approximately 25–26% by early 2025. This reflects stricter visa scrutiny and growing competition among applicants, making early preparation of documentation, proof of finances, and academic credentials even more critical for prospective students.

Australia

• In 2022–23, student visa refusal rates began trending upward — from 8.5% in 2021–22 to 14% in 2022–23.
  ICEF Monitor
• By Q4 2023, rejection rates for Pakistani applicants soared, with visa approval as low as 23.7%, reflecting a refusal rate exceeding 75%.
  ICEF Monitor
• Between November 2024 and January 2025, data shows Pakistan’s approval rate at 46.6%, or a 53.4% refusal rate — still substantially higher than in early 2023.
  Careers360 Study Abroad

Trend Summary – Australia:
Refusal rates for Pakistan rose sharply from around 14% in 2022–23 to over 50% in 2024–25, peaking at above 75% in late 2023. This has created increased uncertainty for students considering Australia, especially those applying from smaller cities where access to certified education agents or guidance is limited.

Students now need to focus more on meeting all visa documentation requirements, demonstrating strong financial proof, and ensuring their education provider is fully recognized. Additionally, the rise in refusals emphasizes the importance of early planning, clear communication with institutions, and understanding all aspects of visa conditions before applying.

Visual Comparison Table

Why the Rise?

• UK: Tighter immigration rules, stronger vetting, and policy shifts affecting South Asian applicants.
  ICEF Monitor
• Australia: Comprehensive visa integrity overhaul — higher language and financial requirements, bank scrutiny, and crackdown on “ghost colleges.” The implementation of these stricter measures means that students now must carefully select universities, verify enrollment letters, and submit accurate supporting documents to avoid rejections.

Overall, the visa landscape for Pakistani students has become more competitive and complex. Awareness of refusal trends, meticulous preparation, and timely submission of applications can significantly improve chances of success. Students are also encouraged to consult reliable sources, such as official government websites and reputable education portals, to stay updated on changing requirements and deadlines.

Read Our Other Helpful Guides

• In 2025, Where Are South Asian, Southeast Asian and African Students Going — A Shift Away From the US & UK
• In 2025, Where Are Indian Students Heading Amid Rising Concerns Around US Study Visa and OPT
• Compare Study Abroad Destinations: Scholarships, Cost & Work Opportunities in 2024–25
• How Are International Students Funding Their Studies in 2024–25?