Australia's university dropout rates have reportedly soared to their highest since 2005. 

A record 25.4 per cent dropout rate is aligned with a 13 per cent decrease in university enrolments since 2016, according to the AFR. 

Over 50,000 students are leaving their courses annually, facing significant financial burdens, including a 7.1 per cent inflation-induced rise in student debts in 2023.

This brings a heavy cost for students, who lose potential earnings and accrue debts exceeding $12,000. 

The robust job market post-pandemic and rising living costs are contributing factors.

Disadvantaged students are more likely to drop out, bearing the brunt of student loans. 

Regional universities, despite high satisfaction rates, have seen higher dropout rates. In contrast, universities like UNSW, University of Melbourne, and Monash maintain lower rates, around 5 per cent.

Students with lower ATAR scores are at a higher dropout risk. However, two-thirds of students eventually complete their studies within nine years. 

This increase in dropout rates poses significant challenges for Australia's higher education sector, balancing accessibility with economic and personal implications for students.