Get more overseas students in SA: Xenophon

There is a compelling case to give international students incentives to study in regions with low population and economic growth, independent senator Nick Xenophon has told parliament.

Speaking on proposed legislation to cut red tape for education providers, Senator Xenophon said overseas students should be given incentives to study in states like South Australia, which has the nation's highest unemployment rate.

Incentives could include allowing students in those areas to work or stay longer, he said on Monday.