International Students in Australian Universities Hit Record High in 2024

Record Surge: International Student Enrolments Hit 495,652 in 2024

International student enrolments in Australian universities reached a historic high in 2024, hitting 495,652 students. This marks a significant rise from 453,796 in 2023 and surpasses the pre-pandemic peak of 453,833 in 2019. The growth highlights Australia's strong recovery in global education demand post-COVID and now the country’s position is one of the top destinations for international students worldwide.

A Higher Share Than Ever: International Students Now 32.7% of University Enrolments

In 2024, universities in Australia for international students made up 32.7% of all students —an all-time high and a significant rise from 31.0% in 2023 and 30.6% in 2019.

The year also saw a record number of commencing international students, increasing from 199,815 in 2019 and 220,638 in 2023 to 222,123 in 2024, marking the highest intake ever.

Rise in New Students: Commencing International Enrolments Reach an All-Time Peak

In 2024, universities in Australia for international students saw a record 495,652, the highest number ever. This is a 9.2% jump from 2023 and even higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019. These students made up 32.7% of all university enrolments, the largest share Australia has ever recorded in global education.

The number of new international students also grew, reaching 222,123 starters in 2024, slightly higher than both 2023 and 2019. This shows that not only are more international students studying in Australia overall, but more students are choosing to begin their studies in Australia than ever before.

What This Growth Means for Australia’s Higher Education Sector

The sharp rise in international student enrolments in 2024 shows how strongly Australia’s university sector has bounced back after the pandemic. Reaching a record 495,652 international students isn’t just a number, it highlights renewed global confidence in Australia as a study destination.

• Why the Growth Matters‍

This growth brings important financial stability. Many universities rely on international tuition fees to fund teaching, research, facilities, and staff. After years of disruption from 2020–2022, this rebound helps institutions recover and rebuild.

At the same time, campuses are becoming more culturally diverse than ever. With nearly one in three students coming from overseas in 2024, universities are now more global, offering better learning experiences and broad international perspectives for both domestic and international students.

• The Challenges and the Road Ahead

But with this rapid growth come new pressures. Australia’s increasing dependence on international students raises questions about long-term sustainability, especially if future policy changes, global conditions, or visa rules shift again.
The government has already begun discussing caps and tighter regulations to protect domestic enrolments. They are now ensuring that essential services, especially student housing, don’t get overstretched.

Looking ahead, the numbers of 2024 shows Australia’s position as a top education hub. But universities will need to balance this growth carefully, preparing their campuses, policies, and support systems to handle rising demand while ensuring both international and domestic students thrive.