Australia student visa update 2027: 295,000 intake and fee hike exemption for Southeast Asians

Key takeaways:

• Australia will maintain 295,000 new international student commencements in 2027.

• Eligible ASEAN passport holders will continue to pay a lower student visa application fee of AUD 2,050, instead of the general AUD 2,500 fee.

• Southeast Asia remains a priority for the Australian government, with universities previously given additional allocations for stronger engagement with the region.

If you’ve been feeling unsure about your chances of studying in Australia, here’s some encouraging news, especially for students in Southeast Asia.

The Australian Government will keep the intake of international students at 295,000 in 2027. 

As a student from an ASEAN country, you will also pay a lower student visa application fee than the revised general rate. 

What changed for Australia student visas in 2027

Lower student visa fees for eligible ASEAN students

As of 1 July 2026, the general student visa application fee was raised from to AUD 2500, up from AUD 2000. But you are exempted from the full 25% increase if you hold a passport from an ASEAN country like Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand or Vietnam.

Instead, Southeast Asian students pay a lower rate of AUD 2050, which includes an inflation adjustment.

International student planning level remains at 295,000

Meanwhile, Australia will continue to welcome 295,000 new overseas student commencements in 2027, the same National Planning Level (NPL) as in 2026. 

The government clarified that the NPL is not a cap or limit on student numbers, but is used to prioritise student visa processing. This means genuine students who meet Australia’s student visa requirements can still apply. 

Planning early will make a difference, especially to settle applications, accommodation arrangements or pathway routes. An IDP education advisor can help you compare institutions, understand the latest student visa situation and plan your application at no cost.

If you felt discouraged about studying in Australia previously, you weren’t alone. Australia student visa and immigration news over the past few years had left some students uncertain about visa requirements, enrolment limits, and their chances of studying there.  

However, the path ahead looks clearer now, with the government increasing intake by 9% in 2026, and deciding to keep it at 295,000 for 2027.   

And if you’re from Southeast Asia, here’s a sign that Australia wants you there. Universities were incentivised and granted additional student allocations for: 

• increasing engagement with Southeast Asia, and  

• providing adequate student accommodation. 

The move was part of Australia’s wider strategy to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and create a better overall student experience.  

Speaking to national broadcaster ABC, International Education Assistant Minister Julian Hill stressed that it was in Australia’s future interest to “continue to bring the best and brightest from our neighbours (in Southeast Asia) to have a bit of Australia with them for the rest of their life." 

With this positive update, it’s clear that Australia continues to be one of the best study abroad destinations. Here’s why you should consider studying abroad Down Under: 

World-class education 

Australian universities are respected globally for their high academic standards, innovation, research reputation, excellent teaching and success of its graduates. You can be assured that the quality of education remains top-notch. 

Diverse cultural experience 

You’ll be part of a welcoming and multicultural environment. Studying in Australia offers you the chance to meet people from all over the world, open up new perspectives, and broaden your horizons. 

Post-study opportunities 

Through Australia’s Graduate visa, you may be able to stay on temporarily after completing your studies, to work in the country and give yourself a head start in your career. It’s a solid pathway for gaining international work experience. 

If you’re planning to be part of Australia’s 2027 student intake, it pays to start early. Here are some steps to help: 

1. Research your options: Consider which universities and courses suit you, and note the intake dates. Make sure you choose a program that aligns with your career goals and interests. 

2. Stay updated on Australia student visa news and requirements: Understand the visa application costs, conditions, and how to make the most of your opportunities. It can get tricky, so make sure you get the help of an education advisor to navigate the visa process. 

3. Plan your application strategy: As different universities were granted different allocations for priority visa processing, choosing the right institution and intake can matter. Start your application early, and make sure you have all the required documents ready to go. 

4. Stay informed: Government policies can shift again. Keep track of the news so you can make the best decisions for your future. 

If this feels overwhelming, don’t worry. You can manage all of this easily with help from an IDP counsellor, which is free from start to end. 

Australia has made it clear: it wants more students from Southeast Asia. Hill said, “we want students to see Australia as a premium destination where they can access high quality education and a great student experience.” 

But your chances still depend on how and where you apply. If you want to make the most of this opportunity, start planning now — with guidance from people who know the system best. 

Let IDP’s education advisors help you find the right university, secure your place, and get your visa sorted. All at no cost to you.  

What is the latest Australia student visa update for 2027? 

Australia will maintain its National Planning Level (NPL) at 295,000 new international student commencements in 2027, the same level as in 2026. Eligible ASEAN passport holders will also continue to pay a lower student visa application fee than the revised general rate. 

Is Australia limiting international students to 295,000 in 2027?

No. The National Planning Level of 295,000 is not a cap on the total number of international students who can study in Australia. It is used to help prioritise student visa processing. Students who meet the relevant admission and visa requirements can still apply. 

What is the Australia student visa application fee for ASEAN students?

From 1 July 2026, the general student visa application fee increased to AUD 2,500. Eligible ASEAN passport holders continue to pay a lower fee of AUD 2,050. 

For more information about applying, read our guide to Australia’s student visa requirements. 

Which ASEAN students are eligible for the lower Australia student visa fee?

Passport holders from ASEAN countries can benefit from the lower student visa application fee. This includes students from countries such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. 

Check the latest visa fees and eligibility requirements before applying, as these can change. 

How should I prepare to study in Australia in 2027?

Start early by researching universities and courses, checking entry requirements and preparing the documents required for your application. You should also understand the latest student visa requirements, fees and processing arrangements before applying.

Learn more about the Australian education system and your study options before planning your application.