Australia to Cap International Student Intake at 270,000 in 2025

Australia is set to limit the number of new international students:

Australia is set to limit the number of new international students to 270,000 in 2025 as part of an effort to reduce overall migration to levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic. This new cap, announced by Education Minister Jason Clare, will distribute student intake across different educational sectors:

145,000 spots allocated for universities.
30,000 for other higher education institutions.
95,000 for vocational education and training programs.

In the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, Australia issued more than 577,000 student visas. The current number of international students in Australia stands at 717,500, a significant increase since the pandemic. The cap is designed to bring student numbers in line with pre-pandemic figures, reflecting the government’s broader strategy to manage migration.

Minister Clare noted that while some universities might experience a decrease in student numbers under the new policy, this adjustment is necessary. The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, highlighted the crucial role of international education for Australia but warned against universities relying too heavily on overseas students, given the implications for migration.

This policy shift comes amid concerns about the rapid growth in student numbers and the need to maintain a balanced and sustainable approach to migration.