Daily Brief — Australian Education
Monday, 3 August 2026 · 05:00 AEST
The US proposes a $100,000 fee on post-graduation work for international students, while Australia's sector data shows steady growth in domestic commencements and a 42% India visa refusal rate.
Top of the brief
Trump administration eyes a $100,000 fee on Optional Practical Training, the post-graduation work program used by 295,000 international students in 2024/25; Indian nationals make up 49% of participants (31 July). DHS: "Our immigration system is being reformed to serve American citizens and American workers...not to rapidly import foreigners who take American jobs." The proposal has not been formally enacted but represents a further escalation in US post-study work barriers following the finalised Duration of Status changes; India is Australia's second-largest source market, but a 42% India visa refusal rate (early 2026) and $2,500 student visa fee constrain Australia's capacity to absorb redirected demand. (The PIE, 31 July)
Sector data
Standing figures: 2026 NPL 295,000 (+25,000 on 2025); visa refusal rates 69% Nepal, 42% India (early 2026); domestic commencements 413,133 (+4.3% YoY); $50m over-enrolment fund; $50m Structural Adjustment Fund.
Diary
17–18 November 2026 — TEQSA 2026 Conference, fully virtual.
19 May 2027 — ASQA 12-month VET/ELICOS registration pause expires.