Kalkine: Record-Breaking Student Enrolments Drive Growth at EDU Holdings (ASX:EDU)

June 13, 2025 12:25 PM AEST | By Team Kalkine Media

Kalkine: Record-Breaking Student Enrolments Drive Growth at EDU Holdings (ASX:EDU) — Image source: Shutterstock

Strong Growth Momentum

The surge in student numbers reflects continued momentum in both new and ongoing enrolments. Total enrolment growth has been partly attributed to the accumulation effect from earlier successful intakes and lower graduation rates, given Ikon’s course durations typically span two to four years.

New student enrolments for the trimester stood at 711, showing a 33% increase from the previous year. However, this number was down 20% from the 889 recorded in Trimester 1 of 2025, a shift the company acknowledges in light of increasing industry competition.

Rising Competitive Landscape

The tertiary education sector is witnessing a rise in competition, with more providers targeting similar program areas. This includes both long-established institutions expanding their reach and new entrants joining the space.

In response, Ikon has diversified its program offerings, notably introducing its first postgraduate course. These additions are designed to broaden the institute’s appeal to a wider student demographic and enhance its positioning in a dynamic market environment.

Navigating Policy Changes for International Students

EDU Holdings has also addressed changes related to international student policies. The government’s proposed Education Services for Overseas Students Amendment (ESOS) Bill was not enacted as scheduled on 1 January 2025. However, a ministerial directive from late 2024 has implemented similar measures through a new two-speed visa processing system.

This system prioritises visa applications for up to 80% of a provider's cap, with slower processing beyond that threshold. Importantly, the company highlighted that the majority of Ikon’s international students are currently recruited from within Australia, insulating much of its international intake from these offshore visa limitations. Domestic enrolments remain unaffected by the new directive.

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