Australia is set to introduce a cap on the number of new international students it will accept.

Aiming to reduce overall migration to pre-pandemic levels.

The nation, known for having one of the largest international student markets in the world, will limit new enrolments to 270,000 for the year 2025.

As announced on Tuesday, the government will impose individual restrictions on each higher education institution.

With the largest reductions affecting vocational education and training providers.

This policy has sparked outrage within the tertiary education sector, with some universities labelling the move as “economic vandalism.”

However, the government argues that these changes will enhance the quality and sustainability of the education sector.

Australia currently hosts approximately 717,500 international students, according to the latest data from early 2024.

Australia’s education minister speaks

Education Minister Jason Clare acknowledged the pandemic’s significant impact on higher education, as the country sent foreign students home and implemented strict border controls.

Yet, he pointed out that international student numbers at universities have now increased by 10% compared to pre-COVID levels.

While private vocational and training providers have seen a 50% rise.

Mr. Clare expressed concerns about the industry’s exploitation by unscrupulous providers, who have been accused of accepting students without adequate language skills.

Offering substandard education, and enrolling people more interested in working than studying.

He emphasized that the new reforms are designed to create a fairer and more sustainable system for the future.

The cap on international students is also intended to address Australia’s record migration levels, which have contributed to housing and infrastructure pressures.

Tougher English tests

In addition to the cap, the government has introduced tougher English-language requirements for international students.

Further an increased scrutiny on those applying for a second study visa.

It has also taken action against hundreds of “dodgy” education providers.

Public universities will see their enrolments pared back to 145,000 in 2025, a level similar to that of 2023.

Private universities and non-university providers will be limited to 30,000 new international students.

While vocational education and training institutions will have a cap of 95,000.

Despite the government’s assurances, higher education providers argue that the sector is unfairly targeted.

Mainly as a scapegoat for broader housing and migration issues.

With international education contributing A$36.4 billion to the Australian economy in 2022-23, critics warn that the proposed cuts could cost the economy billions and result in significant job losses.