Australia continues to welcome international students from all over the world, and is committed to offering the highest quality learning experience. The Australian Government has now announced its next annual ‘National Planning Level’ (NPL) for new international student commencements. In 2026, the NPL will be 295,000. This includes an additional 25,000 new international student allocations compared to 2025. What does the National Planning Level do? Australia’s National Planning Level (NPL) is not a cap or a limit on student numbers. It is a prioritisation system for Student visa applications. This means that any genuine student who meets the Student visa requirements can still apply. The NPL is designed to make sure that our international student program can grow in a way that maintains the highest quality learning experience and creates the best possible outcomes for students. To manage the growth of the program in this way, the NPL is supported by a Student visa processing prioritisation system for Student visa applications. It only applies to visas lodged outside of Australia. Student visa applications are processed as high priority until education and training providers in Australia reach their NPL allocation. After this, further visa applications are still accepted for that provider, but are processed more slowly. What’s new for 2026? The 2026 NPL includes 25,000 more new student commencements than in 2025, reflecting Australia’s commitment to welcoming international students. Students from specified countries in the Pacific and Timor-Leste, Australian government scholarship holders and certain foreign government scholarship holders, as well as other specified cohorts, will retain fast (priority) visa processing. From 2026, international students moving to public universities after finishing secondary school in Australia, or coming from recognised pathway providers or TAFE institutes, will not be counted in the university’s NPL allocation. What does this mean for you? You can still apply for a visa as usual. Fair and transparent processing continues for all eligible providers and students. Arrangements for 2026 are designed to maintain a positive and high-quality experience for all students.

We will update English language test requirements for the Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482) (SID). These changes will begin from 13 September 2025 (subject to the passage of relevant legislation). These changes: • ensure consistent scoring across test providers • give more flexibility and test options for visa applicants. Three (3) new tests will be available to visa applicants to meet the SID visa English requirements. Some existing tests and score requirements will also change. If you are applying for a subclass 482 visa, you must make sure that you: • take a test that is valid for SID visa purposes • achieve the required test results, based on the date you take your test. Tests taken on or after 13 September 2025 We will align test requirements for SID visa purposes on or after 13 September 2025 with the Vocational level of English proficiency outlined in the Migration (Specification of Language Tests, Test Scores and Passports) Instrument 2025 (LIN25/016). You can find more information on the Federal Register of Legislation. There will be no changes to language testing exemptions for the SID visa. If you take a test that offers the single skill retake, and that is accepted by the department, you may be able use these results for your application. We will no longer accept Cambridge C1 Advanced Tests taken on or after 13 September 2025 for SID visa purposes. If you have booked a test with this provider, you must ensure you take your test before this date. Tests taken before 13 September 2025 Tests taken before 13 September 2025 will maintain a three (3) year validity period for SID visa purposes. We will continue to accept these tests, subject to the validity and test score requirements specified in the Migration (Language Test Requirements for Subclass 482 Visa) Instrument 2024. Labour agreement stream You must have English language skills suitable to perform your nominated occupation. English requirements may be specified in the Labour Agreement between your employer and the Commonwealth. We will publish more detailed information about the new requirements from 13 September 2025 on the Subclass 482 English requirements.

On 7 August 2025, the accepted English Language Tests (ELT) for Australian visa purposes changed. There are now nine tests accepted. This has increased from the five tests previously accepted. For tests taken on or before 6 August 2025, for previously accepted ELT, previous settings and requirements will stay valid for certain timeframes, dependant on the visa eligibility. Visit the department’s website for more information on the impacts to relevant visas. The ELT changes will: • ensure consistent scoring across test providers • give more flexibility and test options for visa applicants. If you wish to apply for a visa that requires evidence of your English language ability, you must ensure that you: • take a test that is valid for the purpose of the visa you are applying for, and • achieve the English test scores required. Note: TheEnglish language test requirements for the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) will not change until 13 September 2025. To learn more about the ELT changes, visit at English language visa requirements.

This program will provide important information on accessing the South Australian job market, in an interactive format. Over 3 half-days, you will gain the skills and knowledge to positively navigate the South Australian job market. The program offers practical guidance on: Job search strategies Localised resumes and cover letters Interview preparation Networking You will also gain valuable insights into South Australian workplace culture and employer expectations, as well as the opportunity to expand your professional network. The August program will take place 8:45am – 1:00pm: Wednesday 27 August Monday 1 September Tuesday 2 September Participants must be available to attend all three days. The sessions will be held in a central Adelaide location. Registrations close 20 August 2025. Register now. Places are limited, so please register as soon as possible to ensure your participation. POSTED MORE NEWS

Are you a skilled migrant who has recently arrived in South Australia? If you answered YES, you are invited to join us for the Welcome to South Australia event. This event offers a unique opportunity for you to make connections with your local community, gain valuable information and network with individuals and organisations who can help you settle into life in SA. A key part of the event is the opportunity to meet and speak with guest organisations, including recruiters, professional associations and cultural groups, all during a casual morning tea. “I found the event very valuable overall, especially the practical information shared about settling in South Australia and accessing local support services. The presenters were engaging and knowledgeable, and the structure of the event made it easy to follow. I particularly appreciated the insights into employment pathways and community resources for new arrivals. Thank you for organizing such a helpful and welcoming session!” [Previous attendee June 2025]. If you are a skilled migrant who has arrived in South Australia within the last 6 months and you haven’t joined us before, we look forward to meeting you. This event is presented by the Skilled and Business Migration from the Department of State Development. Event details: When: Tuesday, 19 August 2025 9:30am - 12:30pm ACST Location: Adelaide CBD Cost: FREE Register to attend POSTED MORE NEWS

Registrations for the Pacific Engagement stream visa (PEV) ballot are now open for Pacific Island and Timor-Leste nationals. The PEV is a permanent visa allowing people from participating countries to live, work and study in Australia. PEV holders can travel between Australia and their home countries, strengthening links between our people while fostering business and education ties. For us to select you and invite you to apply for the PEV, you must first register in the random pre-application ballot. This is open from 28 July to 25 August 2025. Eligible nationals from participating countries can enter the ballot. People of all skill levels, genders and occupational backgrounds are welcome. There are 3,000 places available for the 2025-26 program to eligible citizens of the following countries: • Federated States of Micronesia • Fiji • Kiribati • Nauru • Palau • Papua New Guinea • Samoa • Solomon Islands • Timor-Leste • Tonga • Vanuatu Australia has granted more than 1,000 PEVs. PEV holders can access the same benefits as all permanent visa holders to help raise a family. This includes access to public schools, Medicare and subsidised childcare. To learn more about how to register for the PEV ballot, see Pacific Engagement visa – ballot registration.

Online services are now available to support Child, Other Family, Former Resident and New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa applicants who lodge a paper-based application. While applicants must still apply using a paper form, they can now import their application into ImmiAccount once we have acknowledged we have received it. Importing an application into ImmiAccount gives applicants access to a range of online services that make it easier to manage their application. These services help applicants save time and include the ability to: • attach additional documents to the application • view correspondence sent to applicants • update applicant details • view the current status of their application • lodge Bridging visa (BV) applications • use an online withdrawal form for withdrawal. 1* The services are available for all new and existing applications for the following visas types and subclasses. Child Visas: • Child (subclass 101) visa • Adoption (subclass 102) visa • Child (subclass 802) visa • Dependent Child (subclass 445) visa • Orphan Relative (subclass 117) visa • Orphan Relative (subclass 837) visa. Applicants for subclasses 101, 102 and 117 can import any new and existing applications lodged in Australia. For applications made outside of Australia, only those lodged on or after 1 April 2020 will be able to use the paper import function. Other Family Visas: • Aged Dependent (subclass 114) visa • Aged Dependent (subclass 838) visa • Remaining Relative (subclass 115) visa • Remaining Relative (subclass 835) visa • Carer (subclass 116) visa • Carer (subclass 836) visa. Applicants for subclasses 114, 115 and 116 can import any new and existing applications lodged in Australia. For applications made outside of Australia, only those lodged on or after 25 June 2020 will be able to use the paper import function. Long Term Resident visas Former Resident (subclass 151) visa New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship (subclass 461) visa A step-by-step guide to importing paper applications into ImmiAccount is available at Apply and manage your application. 1. Withdrawing an application for one of the visas above If you applied for one of the visas above, but you are unable to use ImmiAccount to withdraw your application, you can use a visa withdrawal web form to do so. For more information, visit you want to withdraw and application.

Key details On 1 July 2025, the VAC for Student visas (subclass 500) and Student Guardian visas (subclass 590) increased from $1,600 for a primary applicant to $2,000. The increase does not apply to Pacific Island and Timor-Leste Student visa applicants. FAQs Does this fee apply to all courses? There have been public discussions about different visa application charges for short duration study courses. This is a matter for the Australian Government and no decision has been made. We will keep you up to date on all policy developments via the Study Australia website news page, Student Newsletter and social media channels. What if I need to get a new Student visa because my education provider incorrectly issued a CoE for a shorter duration? Your education provider must fix any issues related to enrolment, such as mistakes with your CoE. Contact your education provider for help if their enrolment errors are affecting the duration of your stay in Australia and you need to apply for a further Student visa to complete your studies. For more information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website. What if I have to apply for a new Student visa because my education provider stopped offering my original course? You may be eligible for a no fee (nil VAC) on your new Student visa application, if: You are enrolled to study with a CRICOS registered education provider in Australia and they cannot start delivering your course on the agreed date. Your provider cannot continue to deliver your course after the starting date, as agreed (also referred to as an ‘education provider default’ - see below). Your rights and protections The Australian Government remains committed to providing a world-class education in a safe and welcoming environment. Australia has laws that protect your rights as an international student and help to ensure you have a positive student experience. If you have any issues with your education provider, there is support available: The Tuition Protection Service (TPS) helps international students if an education or training provider cannot fully deliver their course. All students enrolled in VET courses with public providers can get help with unresolved complaints from their local state or territory Ombudsman. All students studying at higher education providers can get help with unresolved complaints through the the new National Student Ombudsman. Applying for a Student visa Australia continues to welcome international students from all over the world and remains a top study destination. International students bring new ideas and skills to our society, diverse perspectives to our classrooms and communities, and sought-after talent to Australia’s workforce. Find how to apply for a Student visa in our step-by-step guide.

State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) paused Tue, 01/07/2025 - 14:50 The State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) will be paused from 1 July 2025 pending confirmation of 2025-26 places from the Department of Home Affairs. New invitations to apply for State nomination will not be issued during this time. WA Migration Services will continue to receive and assess SNMP applications. Successful applications will be nominated when 2025-26 SNMP places become available. Those who have visas expiring should seek professional advice from an Authorised Migration Representative and ensure that they remain lawful during their stay in Australia. A comprehensive list of Registered Migration Agents is available at www.mara.gov.au (opens in a new tab) . News Category SNMP

On 24 March 2025, the department announced that from 1 July 2025, skilled visa income thresholds will increase by 4.6%. This is in line with changes to the annual Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE). The changes deliver on the Migration Review recommendations that are now a part of the commitment outlined in the Migration Strategy. From 1 July 2025, indexation changes will apply to the following visas: The Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) This will increase from AUD73,150 to AUD76,515. It will impact nomination applications for the Core Skills stream of the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) and the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visas. The Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) This will increase from AUD135,000 to AUD141,210. It will impact nomination applications for the Specialist Skills stream of the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa. The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) This will increase from AUD73,150 to AUD76,515 in alignment with the CSIT. It will impact nomination applications for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) (subclass 494) and the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) (subclass 187) visas. From 1 July 2025, new nomination applications must meet whichever is higher of either the new relevant income threshold, or the annual market salary rate. This change will not apply to existing visa holders and nominations lodged before 1 July 2025.

We will be doing systems maintenance on some of our online systems from 6:30 pm (AEST) Monday 30 June 2025 to 8 am (AEST) Tuesday 1 July 2025. While we are making these changes, the following online services may not be available: • ImmiAccount • eLodgement (online visa and citizenship applications) • My Health Declarations (MHD) service • eMedical • Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) • LEGENDcom • Australian Trusted Trader • Employment Suitability Clearances • Detention Visitor Application • APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) • Humanitarian Entrants Management System (HEMS) • Adult Migrant English Program Reporting and Management System (ARMS) • Education Provider Report (eBIT) • Visa Pricing Estimator • MSI Register • Australian Migration Status (AMS) Training Portal • Online Payment Portal • Registration Gateway. If you receive a 'Service Temporarily Unavailable' error message during this time, please try again after the outage period. If your current visa is due to expire on 30 June 2025 and you intend to stay in Australia, please ensure you lodge your next visa application before 6:30 pm (AEST) Monday 30 June 2025. We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

Australia’s education excellence is again highlighted by the QS World University Rankings 2026, Our universities have delivered outstanding results in the latest rankings, further cementing the country’s reputation as a top study destination globally. Exceptional performances by leading universities Australia has an impressive 25% of its ranked universities in the top 100 globally, with 2 Australian universities rank in the top 20 worldwide and 6 Australian universities in the global top 50. The University of Melbourne: 19th The University of New South Wales: 20th The University of Sydney: =25th Australian National University: =32nd Monash University: =36th The University of Queensland: =42nd The University of Western Australia: 77th Adelaide University: =82nd * University of Technology Sydney: 96th *This year marks the global rankings debut of the new Adelaide University at 82. Global recognition and engagement Australian universities continue to excel in internationalisation: 12 universities received perfect scores for the International Faculty indicator. 5 universities achieved perfect scores for the International Student Ratio. These results highlight the welcoming, diverse, and globally connected environment found across Australian campuses – for both academic staff and international students. Research excellence and academic reputation Australia boasts six universities in the global top 50 for Academic Reputation, demonstrating the country’s strength in research and teaching. The overall average score for Australia stands at 49.8, placing it well ahead of other major study destinations such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. Study with Australia There are 43 quality assured universities in Australia to choose from and so many courses to explore! Australia also offers programs on campus and at provider partners around the world. Head to our Course Search tool to start exploring and enquiring today.