Perth International College of English Closes After 25 Years Amid Visa Fee Crisis
Perth International College of English Closes
After more than 25 years of operation, the Perth International College of English (PICE) has officially closed its doors, marking a major blow to Australia’s English language education sector. The closure, effective June 16, 2025, comes amid escalating financial pressure from rising visa costs, high student visa refusal rates, and application processing delays.
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The college, a respected member of English Australia for over two decades, had long been recognized for delivering high-quality ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) programs. However, recent policy shifts made it increasingly difficult for the institution to sustain enrolment levels.
“Despite PICE’s exemplary reputation for quality, the increase in the student visa fee to $1,600, the record high student visa application refusal rates over the last 18 months, and the visa application processing delays have meant that PICE were unable to attract enough enrolments to be financially sustainable,” said Ian Aird, CEO of English Australia.
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TPS Assisting Affected Students
The Tuition Protection Service (TPS) confirmed that PICE has entered liquidation and has ceased all operations. TPS is currently working with impacted international students to arrange alternate study options or refunds.
The organisation issued a public notice assuring students and stakeholders that their welfare remains a priority during this transition period.
Industry Impact: A Worrying Trend
PICE is not the only English language provider to close its doors. Institutions such as IH Sydney and The Language Academy have also shut down in recent months, citing similar challenges. Sector-wide, English language enrolments are reportedly down by 50% since the government introduced a significant visa fee hike in 2024.
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The sharp increase in the student visa application fee to $1,600, combined with longer processing times and stricter eligibility assessments, has hit smaller and mid-sized providers hardest. Many have struggled to stay afloat as prospective international students either defer studies or seek alternatives in more affordable destinations.
What’s Next for the ELICOS Sector?
The closure of long-standing institutions like PICE has sparked broader concerns within Australia’s international education industry. English Australia, which represents ELICOS providers, is actively engaging with government stakeholders to address policy challenges and stabilise the sector.
“This is not just about one college it’s about the sustainability of Australia’s reputation as a leading English language education destination,” said Aird.
With more closures likely unless reforms are introduced, education experts warn that Australia’s international competitiveness could be at risk.
