EDU Holdings reports a robust 36% increase in total student enrolments for Trimester 1, 2026, driven by strong growth in its higher education arm, Ikon Institute. The company is strategically shifting focus towards higher education amid regulatory changes impacting recruitment.
- Total student enrolments up 36% in T1 2026 versus prior year
- Higher education (Ikon Institute) accounts for 80% of enrolments, up from 66%
- New student enrolments rise 5%, with 90% from higher education
- Launch of new social work degrees expands course portfolio
- Preparing for April 2026 regulatory changes limiting agent commissions
Strong Growth in Higher Education Enrolments
EDU Holdings Limited has delivered a striking 36% increase in total student enrolments for Trimester 1, 2026 compared to the same period last year. This surge is largely attributed to the company’s higher education division, Ikon Institute, which now represents 80% of total enrolments, up significantly from 66% in the prior corresponding period. The strategic pivot towards higher education reflects EDU’s focus on longer course durations, higher fees, and a more stable competitive environment.
New Courses and Domestic Student Uptake
New student enrolments also grew by 5%, with 1,163 new students joining EDU’s programs, 90% of whom enrolled in higher education courses. Ikon’s growth was bolstered by strong demand for newly launched postgraduate courses, including Bachelor and Master of Social Work degrees introduced in Trimester 1, 2026. These new offerings, alongside a record intake of domestic students, contributed to 24% of Ikon’s total enrolments this trimester, highlighting EDU’s successful course expansion strategy.
Vocational Education Faces Headwinds
In contrast, the Vocational Education and Training (VET) arm, Australian Learning Group (ALG), experienced softer enrolments due to tighter visa regulations and challenging sector conditions. Despite this, ALG remains a valuable part of EDU’s portfolio, providing diverse student pathways and supporting progression into higher education at Ikon.
Navigating Regulatory Changes
Looking ahead, EDU is preparing for significant regulatory changes effective 1 April 2026, which will prohibit education providers from paying commissions to agents for students transferring from other providers before completing their principal course. EDU has proactively implemented mitigation strategies, including building direct recruitment capabilities, exploring alternative agent engagement models, and focusing more on domestic and offshore recruitment channels. While the precise impact of these changes remains uncertain, the Board expresses confidence in EDU’s long-term positioning aligned with Australia’s skills priorities.
Outlook and Reporting Schedule
EDU plans to continue transparent enrolment reporting throughout 2026, with updates scheduled for mid-year and later in October. Investors and analysts will be watching closely to see how the company balances growth ambitions with regulatory headwinds in the coming months.
Bottom Line?
EDU’s strong enrolment momentum and strategic shift to higher education set the stage for navigating upcoming regulatory challenges and sustaining growth.
Questions in the middle?
- How will EDU’s new recruitment strategies offset the impact of the April 2026 National Code changes?
- What is the expected financial impact of the regulatory changes on EDU’s revenue mix?
- Can EDU maintain its enrolment growth momentum amid tightening visa policies and sector competition?