Study in the Northern Territory (NT): Why It’s One of the Smartest Study Choices for International Students in 2026

A comprehensive guide for international students considering the Northern Territory (NT) for study and career growth.

Choosing where to study in Australia is one of the most important decisions an international student can make. While major cities attract significant attention, the Northern Territory (NT) has emerged as one of the strongest and most strategic study destinations for international students in 2026. The NT offers affordability, excellent part-time and graduate job opportunities, extended post-study work rights, and a welcoming multicultural environment.

With the Northern Territory (NT) Government opening its 2025–26 General Skilled Migration (GSM) Nomination Program and receiving full allocations, the Territory continues to create opportunities for students who study, live and work locally.

At Aussizz Group, we guide students in understanding how the NT supports both academic success and long-term career growth.

1. Northern Territory (NT) GSM Nomination Program 2025–26: Positive Update for Students

On 24 November 2025, the Northern Territory (NT) Government opened its skilled visa nomination program for:

• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional – Provisional)
• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated – Permanent)

The NT received its full nomination allocation, unlike many other states that faced reductions. This reflects ongoing demand for skilled talent and the Territory’s commitment to supporting regional development.

Understanding the two visas supported by the NT helps students plan their long-term future.

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)

• A 5-year provisional visa allowing eligible applicants to live, work and study in a regional area such as the Northern Territory (NT).
• NT nominees are expected to live and work in the NT for at least 3 years before exploring permanent pathways.
• Applicants may be required to show evidence of residence and employment, and may undergo compliance checks.

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated (Permanent)

• A permanent visa allowing successful applicants to stay in Australia indefinitely.
• NT nominees are expected to live and work in the NT for at least 3 years after visa grant.

Important Notes

• NT nomination does not guarantee employment or accommodation.
• The NT Migration Occupation List shows demand areas, but it is not a list of vacancies.
• Applicants must find their own employment and housing.

3. Why Studying in the Northern Territory (NT) Supports Student Success

Students who choose the NT benefit from:

• Smaller class sizes and personalised learning
• Strong academic and welfare support
• Easier access to internships and part-time jobs
• Excellent graduate employability due to lower competition
• Lower living costs compared to major cities
• A safe, inclusive and multicultural community
• A calm and balanced lifestyle ideal for studying

Students who select the NT as their first study destination also demonstrate strong regional commitment.

3. Extended 485 (TR) Visa Duration: A Major Benefit of Studying in the Northern Territory (NT)

Because Darwin sits in a Regional Category 2 area, eligible graduates from NT institutions may receive:

• 1–2 additional years of Temporary Graduate (485) visa duration

This extended stay allows graduates to:

• Gain valuable Australian work experience
• Build professional networks
• Improve long-term employability
• Stabilise financially
• Explore further opportunities comfortably

This regional benefit is one of the NT’s strongest advantages for students.

4. Northern Territory (NT) Government Nomination Eligibility Criteria

The Northern Territory (NT) Government considers several factors when assessing skilled visa nominations. The table below summarises these requirements.

NT Nomination Eligibility Criteria – Quick Reference Table

Students with visas nearing expiry should seek guidance from a registered migration agent, such as Aussizz Group, to remain lawful.

5. CDU vs Other Northern Territory (NT) Providers: Key Advantages for International Students

The Northern Territory (NT) has a mix of education providers, including Charles Darwin University (CDU) and several private VET/RTO institutes. Each plays a role in the NT education sector; however, they serve different goals.

CDU is the only public university in the NT, offering professional degrees and structured industry pathways. Private institutes specialise in trades, business, hospitality, and community services.

CDU vs NT Private Institutes: Comparison

Why CDU Is Highly Beneficial for Students in the Northern Territory (NT)

• Offers degrees required for professional careers
• Provides industry placements across hospitals, schools, engineering projects and IT labs
• Higher-level qualifications (Bachelor, Master, PhD)
• Up to 50% scholarships for eligible international students
• Courses designed to meet NT workforce needs
• Strong employer connections and graduate outcomes

Popular CDU Courses Strongly Aligned With NT Job Demand

6. High-Demand Industries in the Northern Territory (NT)

The NT continues to experience growth across industries that offer part-time roles, internships and long-term career pathways.

NT Industry & Career Opportunity Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is the Northern Territory (NT) a good destination for international students?

Yes. The NT is affordable, safe, multicultural, and offers strong part-time and graduate job opportunities.

Q2. Does studying in the NT guarantee PR?

No. PR is not guaranteed, but NT graduates often have clearer job pathways due to lower competition and strong demand.

Q3. Is CDU the only university in the NT?

Yes. CDU is the NT’s only public university.

Q4. Do NT graduates get extended 485 visa duration?

Yes. Eligible students may receive 1–2 extra years.

Q5. Are part-time jobs available in the NT?

Yes. Students commonly work in hospitality, retail, childcare, aged care, community services, IT and admin roles.

Q6. Does CDU offer scholarships?

Yes. Up to 50% for eligible international students.

Q7. Is NT more affordable than major cities?

Yes. Living costs are lower compared to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Q8. What courses are popular among NT students?

Nursing, IT, Social Work, Engineering, Teaching and Accounting.

Q9. Do NT institutions offer placements?

CDU provides strong placements across healthcare, education, engineering, IT and community services.

Q10. Does the Northern Territory (NT) Government support international students?

Yes. Through student services, settlement assistance and community programs.

Conclusion: The Northern Territory (NT) Offers a Supportive, Career-Aligned Study Environment

The Northern Territory (NT) provides international students with an excellent combination of high-quality education, strong employment opportunities, extended post-study visa benefits, and an affordable, supportive lifestyle. Whether studying at CDU or a reputable NT VET provider, students gain valuable experience and a strong foundation for future growth.

At Aussizz Group, our counsellors and registered migration agents support students with course selection, admissions, visas, scholarships and long-term planning.

If you’re looking for a study destination that offers opportunity, affordability and long-term potential, the NT is an exceptional choice.

Ready to explore your study options in the Northern Territory (NT)?

Contact Aussizz Group for personalised support.