Australian universities filling only two-thirds of foreign student places
Universities are struggling to fill international student places. Only five of Australia's public universities are reaching 80% capacity.
Australian universities are filling only about two-thirds of their allocated international student places this year, leaving significant gaps. Just five public universities have reached more than 80% capacity, all in capital cities.
Regional universities are hit hardest. Charles Sturt University is filling just 40% of its international student places, down 35% from last year.
Charles Sturt estimates the gap costs the university $35 million. The decline comes from visa uncertainty and high visa fees of $2,500.
Visa refusal rates for students from south Asian countries are reaching about 53%. Universities use international student fees to support domestic courses and research.
The shortfall forces them to cut staff and services for Australian students. The government's 2026 target for international students is 295,000.
Current numbers are tracking toward 250,000.
- Two-thirds of allocated places
- Current capacity filled
- Just five public universities
- Universities at 80 percent capacity
- 35 per cent down on last year
- Charles Sturt international student
- $2,500
- Visa application fee
Why it mattersInternational students fund university operations. Lower numbers force universities to reduce support that also benefits Australian students.
AustraliaAustralian universities are reducing services to domestic students and cutting staff as international enrolments drop, while regional areas face growing skills shortages in nursing, aged care and trades.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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