Band 8+: The graphs below show the enrolments of overseas students and local students in Australian universities over a ten year period. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. You should write at least 150 words.

The two graphs compare the number of overseas and local students enrolled in Australian universities between 2001 and 2010, showing both commencing and total enrolments.

Overall, the number of overseas students rose steadily throughout the period, while local student enrolments grew more slowly and eventually levelled off. Commencing figures for locals remained relatively stable, whereas those for overseas students increased significantly.

In 2001, there were around 20,000 overseas students in total, with about half of them commencing. Both figures rose consistently, reaching approximately 80,000 total and 40,000 new students by 2010. This indicates strong and continuous growth in international enrolments.

By contrast, local students started at a much higher level, with 400,000 in total and just over 180,000 commencing in 2001. The total climbed to 600,000 by 2007 but then plateaued for the remaining years. Commencing numbers fluctuated slightly around 200,000, showing no clear upward trend.

In summary, overseas enrolments grew rapidly and continuously, while local enrolments were larger overall but showed slower growth and eventual stability.