Study Abroad

The 10 Best Universities in Australia for International Students

Australia is home to a world of top universities and is a favorite destination for international students. If you don't know where to start your search, weโ€™ve narrowed down the best university picks based on academic reputation, Go Overseas reviews, and location.

Top Universities in Australia for International Students

The Land Down Under attracts thousands of international students every year and the reasons for that seem clear: great weather, stunning and rugged landscapes, fun-loving people, and internationally-recognized universities. With 43 universities across the country, you're also spoiled for choice as a prospective student.

As with all study abroad ventures, to figure out the best choice for you, you'll need to ask yourself what you want to achieve academically and what parts of the country you want to see. Whether you're interested in studying in Australia by directly enrolling in a university or rocking a study abroad program, there are tons of opportunities to learn at one of the best universities in Australia for international students.

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Australian National University (ANU)

Great for top international reputation

The front of the IT building on ANU campus.

๐Ÿ“ Location: Canberra
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average tuition for direct enrollment semester: $14,000-$20,000 USD
๐Ÿ’ธ Average tuition for semester with third-party provider: $19,000-$23,500 USD
๐Ÿฅ‡ Ranks highly for: philosophy, anthropology, geography, politics
๐ŸŒ QS world ranking: 34

ANU is an outstanding research university is located in Australiaโ€™s (tiny) capital city, Canberra. The city boasts an array of excellent museums and institutes to check out. With blisteringly dry heat in the summer and arctic temperatures in the winter, youโ€™ll enjoy this city if youโ€™re looking for friendly people in a country or rural environment.

Ranked 1st in Australia and 27th in the world (QS World University Rankings), ANU offers top-notch education with small class sizes. Among their alumni are six Nobel Prize winners and two prime ministers, adding to their legacy of prestige. Finally, as the only Australian member of the International Alliance of Research Universities, you'll have ample opportunities to make your own discoveries.

Program Details

Program:
Arcadia University- Australian National University
Provider:
Arcadia Abroad
Location:
Australia
Starting Price:
$20,980.00 USD

University of Sydney

Great for student city

An academic building on the University of Sydney campus.

"I loved Sydney and studying at the University! It was an amazing time! Sydney is a great place and the Uni is really supportive and strong. I felt really safe in the city and public transit is great."

Casey

Program Details

Program:
University of Sydney: Study Abroad Program
Provider:
University of Sydney
Location:
Australia
Starting Price:
$10,000.00 USD
4.43 Rating
based on 7 reviews
  • Academics 4
  • Support 4.3
  • Fun 3.85
  • Housing 4.6
  • Safety 4.85

University of Melbourne

Great for social life

An academic building on the University of Melbourne campus.

๐Ÿ“ Location: Melbourne
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average tuition for direct enrollment semester: $15,000-$18,000 USD
๐Ÿ’ธ Average tuition for semester with third-party provider: $17,500-$20,000 USD
๐Ÿฅ‡ Ranks highly for: sports-related subjects, law, education, social policy, anatomy & physiology
๐ŸŒ QS world ranking: 14

The University of Melbourne is located in Australia's cultural capital, which is known for its nightlife and has an abundance of activities to offer every study abroad student. The university is known for its lively social life and its location in Melbourne means you'll have fun both on- and off-campus.

With an array of eateries featuring delicious foods, countless professional sports teams playing every weekend, and quirky boutique shopping, youโ€™ll certainly be able to find something you love in Melbourne. Be sure to take a road trip to the Twelve Apostles, and while youโ€™re on the Great Ocean Road, check out the surf breaks at Jan-Juc and Torquay (birthplaces of surf-brands Quiksilver and Rip Curl), and of course, the legendary Bells Beach, which is just around the corner.

"I travelled to Melbourne University to gain a wider business understanding from the best university in Australia. Not only can I now say that I was educated at a globally competitive University, I can also say I travelled adventurously all throughout The Northern Territory, Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, and through Victoria."

Justin

Program Details

Program:
University of Melbourne Study Abroad Programs
Provider:
University of Melbourne
Location:
Australia
5.00 Rating
based on 1 review
  • Academics 5
  • Support 4
  • Fun 5
  • Housing 3
  • Safety 4

University of Adelaide

Great for access to nature

A street leading to a white sand beach in Australia.

๐Ÿ“ Location: Adelaide
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average tuition for direct enrollment semester: $7,000-$9,500 USD
๐Ÿ’ธ Average tuition for semester with third-party provider: $20,000-$21,500 USD
๐Ÿฅ‡ Ranks highly for: engineering, dentistry, veterinary science
๐ŸŒ QS world ranking: 89

Nestled in Australia's wine country, Adelaide gives you the perks of a city surrounded by South Australia's rugged beauty. Home to the Pink Lakes, the Limestone Coast, and the sprawling Outback, South Australia is dotted with some of the country's most stunning natural wonders. Adelaide itself is a city with a thriving food and bar scene, filled with independent boutiques and local charm.

The University of Adelaide is a supportive learning atmosphere with professionals ready and willing to help you, whether you are looking for career or mental health counseling or guidance for international students. When you're not studying, you can find further support through friendships made in one of their many campus clubs.

Program Details

Program:
CIS Abroad - Semester in Adelaide - University of Adelaide
Provider:
CIS Abroad
Location:
Australia
Starting Price:
$16,990.00 USD

University of Queensland

Great for sporty campus

Three men stand beside a river with the cityscape of Brisband, Australia in the background.

๐Ÿ“ Location: Brisbane
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average tuition for direct enrollment semester: $13,500-$18,000 USD
๐Ÿ’ธ Average tuition for semester with third-party provider: $22,500-$23,000 USD
๐Ÿฅ‡ Ranks highly for: sports-related subjects, engineering, environmental science, psychology
๐ŸŒ QS world ranking: 43

Nestled along the banks of the Brisbane River, University of Queenland's beautiful grounds are just a stoneโ€™s throw away from downtown Brisbane, and a short train ride away from the beautiful sandy beaches of the Gold Coast. With a heavy international-student population, the cityโ€™s demographic makes for an eclectic mix set in a sub-tropical climate.

The University of Queensland is great for not only studying sports-related subjects but getting involved in sports teams and clubs, too. If you're into casual social sports or want to compete collegiately, UQ Sport has got you covered.

Program Details

Program:
IFSA - Study Abroad Programs in Australia
Provider:
IFSA (Institute for Study Abroad)
Location:
Australia
Starting Price:
$10,000.00 USD
4.79 Rating
based on 24 reviews
  • Academics 4
  • Support 4.55
  • Fun 4.65
  • Housing 4.35
  • Safety 4.8

James Cook University

Great for student research opportunities

A view of the harbor in Townsville, Australia at night.

๐Ÿ“ Location: Cairns, Townsville
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average tuition for direct enrollment semester: $9,500-$11,500 USD
๐Ÿ’ธ Average tuition for semester with third-party provider: $16,000-$23,000 USD
๐Ÿฅ‡ Ranks highly for: earth and marine sciences, hospitality, agriculture, archaeology
๐ŸŒ QS world ranking: 415

Located on the northeastern coast of Australia's beautiful Queensland, James Cook University has sunny main campuses in Townsville and Cairns. This top university is known for its excellence in research, especially in environmental and marine studies. An added perk, The Good Universities Guide has awarded JCU five stars for the past six years when it comes to graduate job success.

As a smaller university, you'll have the chance to make meaningful friendships at JCU while feeling like more than just a face in the crowd. A gorgeous campus will give you the perfect spot to chill with new friends when not lounging on the local beaches.

"I originally chose JCU for their marine biology courses since studying marine biology in a landlocked state is hard. I got incredible first hand experiences with marine life SCUBA diving there, I made new friends from all over the world, and I got to do field research with fun professors who really encouraged hands-on and fun learning!"

Ellie

Program Details

Program:
Study Abroad at James Cook University, Australia
Provider:
James Cook University
Location:
Australia
Starting Price:
$6,880.00 USD
5.00 Rating
based on 16 reviews
  • Academics 4.45
  • Support 4.75
  • Fun 5
  • Housing 4.6
  • Safety 4.85

Monash University

Great for green campus

People rowing a boat on a river with the Melbourne skyline in the background.

๐Ÿ“ Location: Melbourne
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average tuition for direct enrollment semester: $13,000-$16,500 USD
๐Ÿ’ธ Average tuition for semester with third-party provider: $18,000-$20,500 USD
๐Ÿฅ‡ Ranks highly for: pharmacy, education, engineering, nursing
๐ŸŒ QS world ranking: 42

Monash University in Melbourne is one of Australia's greenest campuses making it a great choice for environmentally conscious international students. Monash has pledged Net Zero emissions by 2030 and is on its way to a campus operating on 100% renewable energy. Students can get involved by joining Green Impact, a campus initiative focused on reducing environmental impact.

Sustainability isn't just limited to Monash but extends to the wider Melbourne. Melbourne works hard to be a greener city with programs focused on water, waste, and energy.

"Studying at Monash was a once in a lifetime experience and I am so great-full for my opportunity. Monash does an excellent job on connecting exchange students with other exchange students, and domestic students are very approachable. Monash's campuses are student friendly for school work, socialising, and student work as well."

Riley

Program Details

Program:
Study Abroad at Monash University in Australia
Provider:
Monash University
Location:
Australia
Starting Price:
$10,000.00 USD
4.83 Rating
based on 6 reviews
  • Academics 3.85
  • Support 4.7
  • Fun 3.5
  • Housing 4.5
  • Safety 4.7

University of New South Wales (UNSW)

Great for beach life

White sand Coogee Beach in Sydney, Australia.

๐Ÿ“ Location: Sydney
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average tuition for direct enrollment semester: $13,500-$17,500 USD
๐Ÿ’ธ Average tuition for semester with third-party provider: $22,500-$24,000 USD
๐Ÿฅ‡ Ranks highly for: engineering, law, accounting
๐ŸŒ QS world ranking: 19

UNSW is a world-renowned university located in the heart of Sydney, just a 30-minute walk from beautiful Coogee Beach and a short bus ride to famous Bondi Beach. Studying is never boring when you're laying in the sand with relaxing waves in the background.

Given it's proximity to Australia's most money-forward city, this is a great option for students considering interning while studying abroad. In your free time, take advantage of the cultural excursions which allow you to see Sydney like a true local.

"I took some of my most rigorous, practical courses at UNSW, yet still had more free time than ever: the proximity to the beach, the beauty of the area, and the amount of friendship and community within the dorm/college made this an unforgettable and highly meaningful experience. Living with local and international students opposed to in an apartment allowed me to meet so many amazing people, and I believe this is a MUST when given the study abroad experience."

James

Program Details

Program:
Study Abroad at UNSW in Sydney, Australia
Provider:
UNSW Australia
Location:
Australia
Starting Price:
$6,600.00 USD
5.00 Rating
based on 14 reviews
  • Academics 4.65
  • Support 4.95
  • Fun 4.85
  • Housing 5
  • Safety 5

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

Great for design innovation

A UTS building in Sydney.

๐Ÿ“ Location: Sydney
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average tuition for direct enrollment semester: $13,000-$16,000 USD
๐Ÿ’ธ Average tuition for semester with third-party provider: $20,000-$22,500 USD
๐Ÿฅ‡ Ranks highly for: nursing, art and design, library science
๐ŸŒ QS world ranking: 90

If you love art and design, the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is the right Australian university for creative international students. Sydney itself it a hub of unique architecture and culture, so you'll have no shortage of inspiration. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to UTS' very own Frank Ghery-designed Dr Chau Chak Wing Building, your future study abroad home is bursting with imagination.

UTS prides itself on innovation and works hard to maintain interconnected and technologically advanced campuses. Study abroad students can get involved in a number of extracurricular activities including programs focusing on social justice, entrepeneurship, and leadership.

Program Details

Program:
IFSA - Study Abroad Programs in Australia
Provider:
IFSA (Institute for Study Abroad)
Location:
Australia
Starting Price:
$10,000.00 USD
4.79 Rating
based on 24 reviews
  • Academics 4
  • Support 4.55
  • Fun 4.65
  • Housing 4.35
  • Safety 4.8

University of Western Australia (UWA)

Great for affordability

The Perth, Australia skyline at night.

๐Ÿ“ Location: Perth
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average tuition for direct enrollment semester: $12,500-$15,500 USD
๐Ÿ’ธ Average tuition for semester with third-party provider: $14,500-$15,500 USD
๐Ÿฅ‡ Ranks highly for: engineering, anatomy & physiology, sports-related subjects, geology
๐ŸŒ QS world ranking: 72

The University of Western Australia is in Perth, which is sometimes called the most isolated city in the world, and for good reason; itโ€™s geographically closer to Jakarta, Indonesia, than it is to Sydney. With that said, itโ€™s also one of the most beautiful cities in the country, with great surf and a beautiful downtown area, as well as an island just off the coast that was practically built for water sports, weekend parties, and lounging in the Australian sun.

UWA is great for international students interested in the sciences, with strong engineering, health sciences, and earth sciences programs.

"The UWA campus is one of the few historical buildings of the city, and its gardens are like the rainforest, it's so beautiful! Also, Australian people are extremely friendly, always ready to help, and very open-minded."

Maria

Program Details

Program:
University of Western Australia: Study in Perth
Provider:
The University of Western Australia
Location:
Australia
4.92 Rating
based on 26 reviews
  • Academics 4.65
  • Support 4.75
  • Fun 4.85
  • Housing 4.95
  • Safety 5
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Things to know about studying in Australia

Is Australia a good choice for international students?

Home to the top universities in Australia for international students, the Land Down Under is consistently a favorite among US students. it's also an extremely popular choice for students from Asian, Latin American, and African countries. Not only is it a diverse and welcoming country but it boasts 6 of the world's top 50 student cities and 9 of the 100 best universities globally.

Is Australia affordable for international students?

Australia is among the more expensive countries to study abroad but you can find savings here and there that will add up. By living with roommates, cooking at home, and setting a budget, cutting costs will start to become second nature.

To help you understand the potential costs, we've outlined the average monthly cost of living across Australia. Be mindful though, that costs vary by city and by your own personal spending habits.

  • Rent for room in shared apartment: $500-$1,000
  • Utilities: $35-$70
  • Groceries: $300-$400
  • Cell phone plan: $15-$30
  • Transportation pass: $65-$175

Source: Numbeo Australia

To get a better idea of how much money you could save, try our cost comparison tool.

Where are the top universities located?

Soak up the sun while studying in Australia

Australia is the sun-drenched land of great people, sandy beaches, delicious food, world-class universities, and people who really know how to relax and party. No matter which top university you choose, youโ€™re sure to have the time of your life. Just don't forget your sunscreen!