The Australian Government has released the indicative allocations for publicly funded universities for 2026, confirming a total National Planning Level of 295,000 new overseas student commencements (NOSCs).
Under the new framework, all publicly funded universities have received an allocation for 2026 that is at least equal to their 2025 levels. Some universities have also been granted additional places after demonstrating alignment with national priorities.
Key Priorities for 2026
Publicly funded universities were invited to apply for increased allocations for 2026 by showing evidence of progress in two main areas:
Strengthening engagement with Southeast Asia
The Government’s focus on regional collaboration is aligned with Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, which encourages education partnerships and deeper regional ties.
Providing suitable student accommodation
Universities that invested in additional or improved accommodation options for domestic and international students were prioritised for higher allocations. This ensures that both local and overseas students have access to safe and affordable housing.
An independent panel assessed applications and made recommendations to the Government. Based on these assessments, universities received allocations reflecting their contributions to these national goals.
Indicative Allocations Overview
The 295,000 NOSCs announced for 2026 represent the total number of new overseas students who may commence studies across Australian universities and higher education providers.
Indicative higher education allocations for Table A universities in 2026
| CRICOS Code | Provider Name | NOSC allocation |
| 04249J | Adelaide University | 7,350 |
| 00004G | Australian Catholic University | 1,900 |
| 00120C | Australian National University | 3,750 |
| 00219C | Central Queensland University | 3,150 |
| 00300K | Charles Darwin University | 2,650 |
| 00005F | Charles Sturt University | 1,600 |
| 00301J | Curtin University | 4,100 |
| 00113B | Deakin University | 6,550 |
| 00279B | Edith Cowan University | 3,700 |
| 00103D | Federation University Australia | 1,800 |
| 00114A | Flinders University | 3,000 |
| 00233E | Griffith University | 3,950 |
| 00117J | James Cook University | 2,200 |
| 00115M | La Trobe University | 4,800 |
| 00002J | Macquarie University | 5,250 |
| 00008C | Monash University | 11,300 |
| 00125J | Murdoch University | 3,900 |
| 00213J | Queensland University of Technology | 4,750 |
| 00122A | Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology | 7,700 |
| 01241G | Southern Cross University | 1,500 |
| 00111D | Swinburne University of Technology | 4,500 |
| 00116K | The University of Melbourne | 10,500 |
| 00098G | The University of New South Wales | 10,350 |
| 00109J | The University of Newcastle | 2,050 |
| 01032F | The University of Notre Dame Australia | 800 |
| 00025B | The University of Queensland | 8,050 |
| 00026A | The University of Sydney | 11,900 |
| 00126G | The University of Western Australia | 3,550 |
| 00212K | University of Canberra | 1,800 |
| 00003G | University of New England | 700 |
| 00244B, 02225M | University of Southern Queensland | 1,050 |
| 00586B | University of Tasmania | 2,250 |
| 00099F | University of Technology Sydney | 5,350 |
| 01595D | University of the Sunshine Coast | 1,350 |
| 00102E | University of Wollongong | 3,700 |
| 00124K, 02475D | Victoria University | 4,050 |
| 00917K | Western Sydney University | 4,000 |
In 2026, universities will continue to have flexibility in distributing their higher education allocations across multiple CRICOS registrations or with affiliated pathway providers.
For dual-sector universities, allocations reflect the combined total of their higher education and VET (vocational education and training) places. Indicative VET allocations are available separately through the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
Accessing Allocation Details
Universities will be able to view their 2026 indicative allocations in PRISMS (Provider Registration and International Student Management System) starting from November 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the total number of new overseas student commencements for 2026?
The Australian Government has set the 2026 National Planning Level at 295,000 NOSCs across all higher education providers.
- Will every university receive an increase?
All publicly funded universities will at least maintain their 2025 allocation. Some received higher allocations based on alignment with government priorities.
- What are the main factors influencing 2026 allocations?
Universities were assessed on engagement with Southeast Asia and efforts to improve student accommodation.
- When can universities view their 2026 allocations?
Allocations will be available in PRISMS from November 2025.
If you are planning to study in Australia in 2026, now is the time to begin preparing your application and exploring university options under the new framework.
Book an appointment with us today, and we will guide you through the process of studying in Australia in 2026.