PNG Tertiary Intake for 2026 Reaches 23,428 Students

More than 23,000 students have secured placements in Papua New Guinea’s tertiary institutions for 2026, following the completion of the 2025 NOAS selection process, according to Higher Education Minister Kinoka Feo.

In making the announcement, Minister Feo described the selection period as a life-changing moment for students who have spent years preparing for further education. He expressed appreciation to DHERST officers for managing the process and acknowledged the patience and support of parents during the waiting period.

Higher Education Minister Kinoka Feo

Figures provided by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology indicate that 35,012 applications were screened this year, with 32,401 coming from Grade 12 school leavers and 2,611 from non-school leavers.

Based on institutional capacity, 15,688 school leavers and 7,740 non-school leavers were offered places, bringing the total intake for 2026 to 23,428 students.

Minister Feo said all selections were conducted on academic merit, stressing that the NOAS system uses technology to guarantee transparency and equal opportunity for all applicants.

He noted that DHERST has steadily increased intake numbers over the years to improve access to higher education, despite ongoing challenges in infrastructure and funding.

The Minister also thanked Australia Awards Scholarships for its collaboration with DHERST, particularly in expanding in-country scholarship opportunities.

The full selection list is expected to be made public this week.

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