The Australian Government remains committed to welcoming international students from all over the world – and providing the highest quality learning experience. 

Australia continues to welcome international students from all over the world and remains a top study destination globally.  The Australian Government has announced a continuation of its annual ‘National Planning Level’ (NPL) for new international student commencements. In 2026, the NPL is 295,000. This includes an additional 25,000 new international student places compared to 2025.  

What’s new for 2026? 

• The 2026 NPL includes 25,000 more student commencements than in 2025, showing Australia’s commitment to welcoming more international students. 
• Students from specified countries in the Pacific and Timor-Leste, Australian government scholarship holders and certain foreign government scholarship holders, as well as other specified cohorts, will retain fast (priority) visa processing. 
• From 2026, international students moving to public universities after finishing secondary school in Australia, or coming from recognised pathway providers or TAFE, will not be counted in the university’s NPL allocation. 

What does this mean for you?  

• You can still apply for a visa as usual.  
• Fair and transparent processing continues for all eligible providers and students. 
• Arrangements for 2026 are designed to maintain a positive and high-quality experience for all students.