If you’ve been considering studying abroad in Australia, but not feeling optimistic about your entry chances, this article can help guide your decision.

On a whole, Australians recognise the importance of international students, according to an Universities Australia poll of voters living near major universities or student populations. More than 60% view international students as major drivers of economic growth. About 75% agreed that students who stay in Australia post-graduation contribute to the country’s skilled workforce and economic growth. 

Australia has long been a top study destination with world-class education, diverse cultural experiences, and strong post-study opportunities. However, since late 2023, many students were left with ambiguity on visa approvals and their chances of studying in the country following changes in international student policies. 

A new update in August 2024 has brought more clarity on the situation, as the government detailed its plans for the sector.

270,000 new international students allowed in 2025

Designed to replace the earlier Ministerial Direction 107, the government is introducing a National Planning Level (NPL), subject to parliament passing the bill, that will set a 270,000 cap on new international student enrolments in 2025. 

Of these, publicly funded universities can welcome about 145,000 new international students, while vocational education and training (VET) may take in around 95,000. Other private universities and non-university higher education providers will be allocated 30,000 new student commencements. 

The move brings intake levels back to pre-pandemic levels, which is part of a broader effort to ensure that Australia’s education system can grow sustainably over time while providing high-quality education. 

The cap excludes:

• School students 

• Higher degree by research students 

• Students undertaking standalone English language courses (ELICOS) 

• Non-award students 

• Australian Government sponsored scholars 

• Students who are part of an Australian transnational education arrangement or twinning arrangement 

• Key partner foreign government scholarship holders 

• Students from the Pacific and Timor-Leste

More opportunities in regional universities

Instead of a blanket cap, which had raised concerns within the sector, education institutions would be given their own individual caps—determined by factors such as their recent numbers of new and current international students. 

This could mean some bigger universities would have fewer new students. For regional universities however, almost all of them will be allowed to enrol more international students than they did in 2023. 

Speaking to reporters in Sydney, Education Minister Jason Clare said the plan sets up the higher education system in a “better and fairer way” to benefit all universities, in a sustainable way for the future.

Key takeaways: what this means for you as an international student

Clare assured that Australia wants students from around the world to come and study there, calling international education a “national asset” that brings in both “money” and “friends”. He noted that when students come to the country to study, they fall in love with Australia and bring that love and affection back home with them. 

Meanwhile, regional universities will be given opportunities to enrol more students than before, with the new intake levels designed to build a fairer system. By spreading the student population more evenly, the government is aiming to create a more balanced and sustainable system, ensuring that all universities—and you as a student—benefit in the long term from an improved overall experience with a genuine, high-quality education.

So if you’re a student planning to study in Australia in 2025, you might be wondering how these changes will impact your plans. The good news is that amid the intake cap, the reasons for studying in Australia are as strong as ever. The overall quality of education, cultural experiences and draw of the country have not changed.

Why Australia is still a top choice for 2025

Despite the recent changes, Australia remains one of the best places in the world to study. Here’s why you should still consider Australia for your education:

World-class education

Australian universities are known for their high standards, innovative research, and excellent teaching. With the new policies in place, you can be assured that the quality of education remains top-notch.

Diverse cultural experience

A melting pot of cultures, studying in Australia offers you the chance to meet people from all over the world, open up new perspectives, and broaden your horizons.

Post-study opportunities

With Australia’s Graduate visa, you can stay on after completing your studies to work in the country and give yourself a head start in your career.

Next steps: preparing for your study journey in Australia

With these changes in mind, it’s important to start planning your study journey early. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you’re ready: 

1. Research your options: Look into different universities and courses, keeping in mind the new intake levels. Make sure you choose a program that aligns with your career goals and interests. 

2. Understand the new visa requirements: Make sure you meet the criteria, and take note of any costs you need to prepare for, such as the application cost for international student visas. You can always get the help of an education advisor to navigate the visa process. 

3. Plan your application strategy: With the new caps in place, competition for spots may be tougher. Start your application early, and make sure you have all the required documents ready to go. 

4. Stay informed: Keep track of any further announcements from the Australian government or the institution you’re eyeing. Staying informed will help you make the best decisions for your future.

Ensure that you are optimising all the above areas by asking an IDP counsellor to guide you through each step of the way, and build for yourself the best possible advantage in your application.

Conclusion: securing a spot to study in Australia

It’s important to note that Australia continues to see international students as key to its education sector. Clare clarified that the NPL is not meant to tear down international education, but set it up in a sustainable way for the future.

With more clarity laid out for the sector, you can start strategising to begin a rewarding and life-changing study abroad experience in Australia. All you need is an advisor with the know-how and experience to navigate the education industry changes and policies.

Maximise your chances of being one of the 270,000 international students in 2025—leverage on the expertise of an IDP counsellor to systematically map out your study abroad plans.

IDP’s counselling services are free, so don’t hold back. Book a counselling session today.