A National Planning Level of 295,000 is in place for 2026. This is 25,000 places higher than 2025, to support Government’s commitment to managed growth and a sustainable international education sector.
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A Ministerial Direction will continue to be used in 2026 across both the higher education and VET sectors to support a managed system for international students.
No active provider received a 2026 allocation lower than their 2025 allocation.
Publicly funded universities were invited to apply for additional growth places for 2026.
To support strategic priorities, growth in international student places was linked to demonstrated delivery against government priorities, including:
- increased engagement with Southeast Asia, and
- provision of student accommodation to ensure safe and accessible housing for both domestic and international students.
Indicative 2026 allocations for publicly funded universities have been finalised and are available here:
Indicative 2026 allocations for other higher education providers and VET providers have been finalised. Further information is available:
Information relating to VET is available at the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations website.