Australia has released updated figures showing international student enrolments have reached 77% of the government’s 2026 national planning level.

As of 24 July, education providers have approved around 225,800 new an international students commencements out of the national allocation of 295,000.

Under Ministerial Direction 115, an international students visa applications linked to providers that have reached 80% of their indicative allocation may be processed under Priority 2, unless the applicant qualifies for an exemption.

Providers that exceed 115% of their allocation may have new an international students visa applications processed under Priority 3.

The priority system affects processing times only and does not influence whether a student visa is granted or refused.

And also, exempt categories, including TAFE students, school students, postgraduate research students, and some scholarship holders, will continue to receive Priority 1 processing.

Additionally, the Australian Government says the allocation figures will be updated weekly.