New CRICOS Courses – May 2026 Update (Real Data, Verified Examples)
What Changed in the CRICOS Database (May 1, 2026)
The latest CRICOS update (May 2026) reflects ongoing changes in Australia’s international education system.
Key figures:
- Total courses: 26,374
- New courses added: 219
- Courses removed: 280
- Net change: −61
What this means
The CRICOS register is constantly evolving:
- new programs are launched
- outdated courses are removed
- universities update offerings
👉 Any static list of courses becomes outdated very quickly.
Real New CRICOS Courses (May 2026 Data)
Below are verified examples from the May dataset. These courses exist in the updated database and were not present in the previous version.
🎓 Higher Education (Universities)
- Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence Provider: Monash University CRICOS Code: 120433K
- Bachelor of Art History and Curating Provider: Monash University CRICOS Code: 120434J
- Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning Provider: Macquarie University CRICOS Code: 120529B
Insight: Universities are adding specialised and niche degrees, especially in AI, planning, and creative industries.
👩🏫 Education Sector (High Demand Area)
- Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Provider: Australian Catholic University CRICOS Code: 120464C
- Bachelor of Education (Primary and Secondary) Provider: Australian Catholic University CRICOS Code: 120465B
Insight: Australia is expanding teacher training programs due to national workforce shortages.
🧠 Postgraduate & Professional Programs
- Professional Doctorate of Physiotherapy Provider: Bond University CRICOS Code: 120427H
- Graduate Certificate in Learning Studies (Primary) Provider: The University of Queensland CRICOS Code: 120530J
- Graduate Certificate in Learning Studies (Secondary) Provider: The University of Queensland CRICOS Code: 120531H
Insight: There is a clear shift toward:
- shorter postgraduate qualifications
- targeted upskilling programs
🛠️ VET & Practical Courses
- Certificate III in Surveying and Spatial Information Services Provider: Department of Training and Workforce Development CRICOS Code: 120513K
- Diploma of Graphic Design Provider: TAFE SA CRICOS Code: 120446E
Insight: New VET courses reflect demand in:
- infrastructure
- technical services
- creative industries
Where New Courses Are Appearing
Based on the dataset:
- Major universities → continue expanding niche degrees
- Government providers (TAFE) → adding practical programs
- Regional training bodies → increasing presence
👉 Growth is not limited to Sydney and Melbourne anymore
Why This Update Matters
1. Course availability changes fast
Within a single update:
- 219 new courses appeared
- 280 disappeared
👉 A CRICOS code that worked last month may no longer exist.
2. Manual search is inefficient
With 26,000+ courses, users face:
- outdated lists
- invalid codes
- no filtering
👉 This leads to wrong decisions.
3. Verification is critical
Even small changes (renamed courses, new providers) can:
- affect visa applications
- change eligibility
- impact study plans
Example: How to Find New Courses Efficiently
Scenario: Find new AI or IT-related courses in Australia.
Approach:
- Search by keyword: Artificial Intelligence / IT
- Filter by course level (Bachelor / Diploma)
- Sort by latest additions
👉 Example result:
Key Trends from May 2026 Update
📌 Trend 1 — Rise of AI and specialised degrees
Universities are introducing targeted programs rather than generic IT degrees.
📌 Trend 2 — Education sector expansion
Teacher training programs are growing rapidly.
📌 Trend 3 — Growth of short postgraduate courses
More flexible study options are being added.
📌 Trend 4 — Continued VET diversification
Technical and applied skills remain in high demand.
Final Takeaway
The May 2026 CRICOS update confirms:
The database is dynamic — and changes every month.
Practical conclusions:
- Do not rely on static course lists
- Always verify CRICOS codes
- Use up-to-date search tools
Quick Q&A
What is a CRICOS course?
A CRICOS course is a program approved by the Australian Government for international students.
How often does CRICOS update?
Updates happen regularly, often monthly, with new courses added and others removed.
How many courses are in CRICOS (2026)?
As of May 2026: approximately 26,374 courses.
Are new CRICOS courses added often?
Yes. In May 2026 alone, 219 new courses were added.