Fake Degrees Jeopardize Indian Students’ Global Opportunities in Modi Era

The rise of fraudulent educational documents and fake certificates in India has sparked international concern, casting a shadow over the future of many students.

Under the current Modi administration, critics argue that the unchecked production of fake credentials has undermined the nation’s reputation, leading the international community to tighten regulations on Indian nationals.

Australia has raised a significant alarm by reclassifying India into the highest risk category under its student visa framework. According to the Times of India, Australian authorities have shifted India to “Evidence Level 3,” the most stringent tier for visa screening. Under this new ranking, Indian applicants will face much stricter scrutiny regarding their financial status, educational backgrounds, and English language proficiency.

Phil Honeywood, Chief Executive of the International Education Association of Australia, has described the issue of fake degrees as a serious threat to educational integrity. He noted that a large number of students are turning toward Australia after being denied admission to the US, UK, and Canada due to the discovery of fraudulent documents.

Recent investigations highlight the scale of this crisis. The Commune reports that Indian police have seized fake certificates worth over Rs 100 crore from various “degree mafias.” Australian Senator Malcolm Roberts has also expressed grave concern, linking these fraudulent qualifications to systemic risks within the visa program.

Experts warn that this surge in academic fraud has severely damaged India’s international standing, forcing major destinations like Australia to follow the US, UK, and Canada in closing their doors to many Indian applicants.