Australia’s borders have reopened to international students, marking a significant shift in the nation’s post-pandemic recovery and its approach to international education.
In 2025, the Australian government implemented a cap of 270,000 new international student commencements to manage migration levels and address housing pressures. This policy change has sparked discussions about its impact on the education sector and the country’s economy, which heavily relies on international education as a major export industry.
This article aims to provide detailed insights into the current status and future prospects of Australia’s border policies concerning international students. It will explore the implications of recent policy changes, the challenges faced by prospective students, and the broader effects on Australia’s international education landscape.
What courses are most likely to get approved under the 2025 student cap?
Courses linked to Australia’s national skills shortage like healthcare, teaching, IT, and engineering are being prioritized. These fields support Australia’s workforce needs and are viewed more favorably under the new intake limits. Choosing such programs may improve your visa approval chances. Some universities are also guiding students toward these options to stay within allowed quotas. Always check the priority list and course availability before applying.
Current Status of Australia’s Borders
Reopening Timeline for International Students
Australia’s borders have progressively reopened to international students, with key milestones including:
- December 1, 2021: Fully vaccinated international students and Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa holders were permitted to enter Australia without the need for a travel exemption.
- February 21, 2022: The border reopening extended to include all fully vaccinated visa holders, allowing a broader range of international students to enter the country.
Since these dates, international students have been able to enter Australia, subject to compliance with health and visa requirements.
Vaccination and Entry Requirements
As of 2025, the entry requirements for international students are as follows:
- Vaccination Proof: Travelers are no longer required to provide evidence of COVID-19 vaccination status when entering Australia.
- COVID-19 Testing: Pre-departure COVID-19 testing is not mandatory for entry into Australia.
- State and Territory Regulations: While federal requirements have been relaxed, individual states and territories may impose their own health and safety protocols. Travelers should verify any additional requirements specific to their destination within Australia.
- Airline and Transit Country Policies: Some airlines or countries transited en route to Australia may have their own vaccination or testing requirements. It’s essential to check with the airline and any transit countries before travel.
It’s important for international students to stay informed about the latest entry requirements and health protocols by consulting official sources such as the Department of Home Affairs and the Study in Australia website.
Policy Changes Affecting International Students
Caps on Student Numbers: 2025 Intake Limitations
In an effort to manage migration levels and address housing pressures, the Australian government announced a cap of 270,000 new international student commencements for the calendar year 2025. This National Planning Level (NPL) is distributed across various education sectors:
- Public Universities: Allocated 145,000 new international student commencements, aligning with 2023 levels.
- Vocational Education and Training (VET) Providers: Allocated 95,000 commencements.
The cap aims to restore the social license of the international education industry and ensure that growth is better managed.
Visa Policy Adjustments: Increased Fees and Stricter Requirements
Significant changes to visa policies have been implemented to enhance the integrity of Australia’s international education system:
- Visa Application Fees: As of July 1, 2024, the non-refundable student visa application fee increased from AUD $710 to AUD $1,600, making it one of the highest among developed nations.
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): From January 2025, applicants must provide an official CoE rather than just an offer letter when applying for a Subclass 500 student visa.
- Age Limit for Temporary Graduate Visa: The maximum age for applicants has been reduced from 50 to 35 years, and the duration of post-study work rights has been shortened for most countries.
Crackdown on ‘Ghost Colleges’: Ensuring Educational Integrity
To protect genuine students and uphold the quality of education, the Australian government has taken measures against fraudulent institutions known as “ghost colleges”:
- Closure of Non-Compliant Providers: In August 2024, 150 dormant education providers were shut down, and warning notices were issued to another 140 institutions.
- Enhanced Monitoring: Institutions are now required to demonstrate active engagement in providing legitimate education and training to maintain their registration.
These actions are part of broader migration reforms aimed at reducing international student numbers and eliminating fraudulent education providers.
These policy changes reflect Australia’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its international education sector while addressing domestic concerns related to migration and housing.
Implications for Prospective International Students
Application Strategies Under the 2025 Caps
- Apply Early: With a fixed number of spots (270,000), applying early improves your chances of receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- Target Public Universities: These institutions receive the largest share of the student quota. Prioritize them if you’re aiming for a smoother visa process.
- Choose High-Demand Courses: Programs aligned with Australia’s skill shortages may face fewer restrictions and offer better migration pathways.
- Stay Informed: Monitor university announcements and government updates about allocation changes or priority areas.
Alternative Study Pathways
- Transnational Education (TNE): Enrol in an Australian program delivered in your home country or a nearby region through a partner institution.
- Begin Online, Transfer Later: Some universities allow students to start their studies remotely and then move on-campus once visas or travel allow.
- Pathway Colleges: Consider foundation or diploma programs run by affiliated colleges that offer direct entry into universities.
Financial Considerations
- Visa Fee Increase: The Student Visa Requirements and fee have risen to AUD $1,600, almost doubling in 2024. This adds a significant upfront cost.
- Cost of Living: Australia’s major cities remain expensive, and students should plan for accommodation, insurance, transport, and daily expenses.
- No Application Refund: Visa fees are non-refundable, even if a student is rejected during the Application Processing due to caps or documentation issues.
- Budget Planning: Use official university cost estimators or financial planning tools to assess if your finances can support the full study period.
These shifts in policy and expense make it essential for students to be strategic and flexible while planning their study journey to Australia.
VI. Perspectives from Stakeholders
Government Rationale: Managing Migration and Housing Pressures
The Australian government introduced a cap of 270,000 new international student commencements for 2025, aiming to manage net migration and alleviate housing market pressures. This policy is part of a broader strategy to reduce net overseas migration to 250,000 by June 2025, addressing concerns about infrastructure strain and housing affordability in major cities.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton has proposed an even stricter cap, suggesting a reduction of 80,000 international students to further ease housing demand.
Educational Institutions’ Response: Economic and Academic Concerns
Universities across Australia have expressed significant concerns regarding the impact of the student cap:
- Economic Impact: Universities Australia warns that reducing international student numbers could harm the economy and the nation’s global reputation, without effectively addressing the housing crisis.
- Financial Losses: The University of Melbourne anticipates an $85 million revenue loss in 2025 due to the cap, potentially affecting research funding and staffing.
- Regional Development: Western Sydney University highlights that international students contribute significantly to local economies and essential sectors like healthcare, warning that the cap could hinder regional development.
Student Voices: Personal and Academic Implications
International students have voiced concerns about the new policies:
- Emotional Impact: Janvi Abrol, an international student from India, expressed that the proposed reductions could shatter the aspirations of many students seeking education in Australia.
- Perception of Blame: Former student Wing Kuang noted that international students are often unfairly blamed for broader societal issues, such as housing shortages, leading to increased stigmatization.
- Community Contribution: Students emphasize their role in filling skill shortages and contributing to the economy, arguing that the caps overlook their positive impact on Australian society.
These perspectives underscore the complexity of the issue, highlighting the need for policies that balance migration management with the benefits international students bring to Australia’s educational and economic landscape.
Future Outlook
Monitoring Policy Developments
Australia’s international education landscape is poised for further changes, particularly in light of the upcoming federal elections. The 2025 election campaign has primarily focused on cost-of-living issues, with major parties offering various economic relief measures. While education policy hasn’t been at the forefront, the outcomes of the election could influence future decisions regarding international student policies.
The Australian Strategy for International Education 2021–2030 outlines a commitment to sustainable growth, diversification, and aligning education with national skills needs. This strategy emphasizes the importance of maintaining the quality and integrity of the international education sector while ensuring it meets the evolving demands of the global landscape.
Long-Term Prospects for International Education in Australia
Despite recent policy shifts, Australia’s international education sector remains a significant contributor to the economy, with international students bringing in substantial revenue. However, the implementation of caps on student numbers and increased visa requirements may lead to a more competitive environment for prospective students.
Educational institutions may need to adapt by diversifying their offerings, enhancing support Services, and exploring alternative delivery methods, such as online or transnational education programs. These adaptations aim to maintain Australia’s appeal as a study destination while addressing domestic concerns related to migration and housing.
In the coming years, the balance between attracting international students and managing domestic challenges will be crucial. Stakeholders, including government bodies, educational institutions, and students, will need to collaborate to ensure that Australia’s international education sector continues to thrive in a sustainable and inclusive manner.
Conclusion
While the new policies present some challenges, Australia continues to offer high-quality education, cultural diversity, and valuable work opportunities. Prospective students should stay informed, apply early, and consider all available options—from online starts to transnational pathways. With the right strategy and preparation, studying in Australia can still be a rewarding and achievable goal.
Australia has reopened its borders to international students, but new policies for 2025 have introduced significant changes:
- A cap of 270,000 new student commencements has been set to manage migration and ease housing pressures.
- Visa fees have increased, and stricter application requirements now apply.
- The government has cracked down on ghost colleges, aiming to protect student rights and educational integrity.
- Students can still apply, but they must plan carefully, exploring alternative pathways and budgeting for higher upfront costs.
- Educational institutions and students alike are adapting to these changes, with ongoing debates around their long-term impact.