Australian Universities Face Significant Cuts to their International Student Intake:

New data reveals that the Australian National University will see a reduction of over 14% in its international student intake, joining 14 other institutions affected by the government's 'random' and 'arbitrary' caps.

Figures released by the Department of Education on Friday evening reveal that 23 universities will be allowed to enrol more international students than in 2023, while 15 universities will face cuts. However, the increases are modest, with only a few hundred additional students allowed per institution. Federation University Australia has taken the hardest hit by the cap: regional Victoria’s largest educational institution will only be permitted to take 1,100 overseas students from 2025, compared to 2023’s intake - which equals to 2,306. 

Charles Sturt University has received the most generous cap increase to 1,000 students, the data presents a 517% increase in their capacity to enrol students in 2025, in comparison to their 2023 figures (which was less than 200). Murdoch University in Perth saw its international student intake reduced by 34%, dropping from 5,272 in 2023 to 3,500. Meanwhile, the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne, where international students make up over 40% of the student body, have each experienced a 7% reduction, setting their 2025 caps at 11,900 and 9,300 students, respectively. The revelations come amid concerns that the tertiary education sector was not properly consulted on the policy, which could lead to significant staff cuts in the coming months. Industry representatives have warned that capping international student enrolments at 270,000 could result in thousands of job losses and the closure of up to 300 independent colleges.

Federation University Australia, Murdoch University, and Australian National University all have international student populations exceeding 35%. Deakin and RMIT’s vice chancellors have suggested that a cap of 35% would be more appropriate. However, caps for other institutions with more than 35% international students vary significantly. Western Sydney University's vice-chancellor, Professor George Williams, expressed shock at the new enrolment caps, which he says will severely impact international student numbers. His institution faces a 2% decrease from the 3,461 international students in 2023. He criticized the formula as “flawed and arbitrary,” predicting serious damage. Senator Mehreen Faruqi criticized the bill for its “gaping holes, perverse outcomes, and lack of consultation,” calling the policy process a “complete mess.” The University of Notre Dame Australia will see a 140% increase in its international student cap to 700, while the University of the Sunshine Coast's cap will rise by 108% to 1,200. Education Minister Jason Clare argued that the caps are a “fairer way” to manage international student enrolments, particularly benefiting regional universities.

However, Regional Universities Network CEO Alec Webb described the new caps as “punitive” and “counter to the policy’s intent,” leading to concerns about meeting these limits due to ongoing uncertainties. Charles Darwin University’s vice-chancellor, Professor Scott Bowman, noted that visa delays are disproportionately affecting regional universities, while metropolitan institutions benefit more. The Holmes Institute CEO, Stephen Nagle, warned that the caps would force some private sector campuses to close and result in around 100 job losses. ITECA chief Troy Williams said the caps could lead to the closure of up to 300 independent colleges, with significant job losses expected.

Need expert guidance on navigating visa caps and international student policies? IME Advisors can provide tailored support to help you understand and manage these changes effectively.

Contact us today to ensure your institution remains compliant and thrives in the evolving landscape of international education.