At Remitly, we’re here to support you in your transitions to new countries and to new chapters in your life. If you’re new to Australia and looking to pursue further education, we’ve got everything you need to know.
In this guide, you’ll learn about the higher education system in Australia and some of our top-pick institutions for international students and immigrants.
College 101: Australian university basics
If you’re moving to Australia, you might want to consider higher education for yourself or your children. It’s also possible that seeking a higher education degree might be your reason for moving to Australia in the first place. After all, Australian universities offer top-tier academics and a range of extracurricular activities set against the beautiful backdrop of Australia’s best locations. What’s not to love?
While an undergraduate degree is not required in many situations in Australia, it can be a minimum requirement for many professional pathways or for future study. University—or “uni” to locals—is a place where you can increase your academic background through lectures, practical learning, and independent study.
The importance of higher education in Australia
Many people in Australia choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree. In fact, the Australian Bureau of Statistics conducted surveys that show that almost half of young people ages 25-34 in Australia hold a bachelor’s degree. Having a university degree results in higher personal earnings, greater innovation opportunities, and enhanced societal benefits. Here are some of the top reasons why you might consider higher education in Australia.
- Higher employment and earnings
People with higher education degrees have significantly more job prospects and higher salaries than those with lower levels of education. Industries like healthcare, IT, engineering, and education have a high demand for skilled workers with higher education degrees.
- Social benefits
Attending classes at a university is a great way to access a community of like-minded people, growing your social and professional network. In addition, all levels of education can lead to more informed and engaged community members.
- Improved health and well-being
Education leads to better health outcomes for individuals and families. Some studies also show that education can reduce crime rates and lower tax burdens, contributing to a more successful society overall.
- Access to top-tier education
Australian universities have a reputation for excellence. They attract both local and international students and offer a range of different courses. There’s something for everyone at Australian unis.
Educational benefits for international students
Aside from the benefits listed above, there are additional reasons why international students or newcomers to Australia might choose to attend university. Attending a university away from home enhances personal and cultural growth, and in Australia, the unis offer benefits that allow you to smoothly and seamlessly integrate into your new home.
- Access to spaces and communities that are culturally diverse
- Immersive experiences in the native language, helping increase your language skills
- Experiential learning that can lead to broadened job opportunities
- Build confidence while navigating a new environment and culture
Diversity and multiculturalism at Australian universities
Australian universities are becoming more and more diverse and multicultural. This means that they’re welcoming Indigenous students, women, ethnic minorities, foreign students, students who do not speak English as their first language, students with different abilities, and students of different socioeconomic statuses.
Certain government programs are available to assist students from various underrepresented groups in applying to universities in Australia. The focus on diversity and multiculturalism gives students a more fair and equal opportunity to access higher education. It also improves cultural exchange and results in more dynamic learning environments.
This article will compare some of the best and most popular universities in Australia. Information about acceptance rates and tuition is sourced from University Living. The tuition rates in this article represent the cost of the most expensive programs. This means you’ll pay that amount or less, depending on what you choose to study. Rankings are based on the US News.
Australian National University (ANU)
Location: Canberra
Acceptance Rate: 35%
Tuition: $39,100 AUD
Ranking: #85 Best Global Universities
Overview
Located in Canberra, ANU’s main campus is in Acton. It’s a public research university and, as part of the Group of Eight, is one of Australia’s top eight research-intensive universities.
Programs and support for international students
ANU offers services for international students that help them adjust to the pressures of university and the feelings behind integrating into a new community. They also have translation services if necessary, like in the case of receiving medical services in English.
Location and lifestyle
The main campus of ANU is in Acton. As Canberra is Australia’s capital city, it’s a short walk or bike ride to some of Australia’s most significant landmarks, like the Australian Parliament House. Canberra is known to be safe, progressive, and diverse, with a thriving arts scene.
University of Sydney
Location: Sydney
Acceptance Rate: 30%
Tuition: $57,700 AUD
Ranking: #29 Best Global Universities
Overview
The University of Sydney is an institution that spans the city of Sydney. It offers degrees in many different disciplines, from medicine to arts. The heart of the university is a beautiful neo-gothic sandstone quad.
Programs and support for international students
The university offers hundreds of scholarships each year to support international students. They also have an international student guide. Once you’re in Sydney, the university offers both on- and off-campus housing.
Throughout your study at the University of Sydney, you’ll have access to different supports. The university is committed to student well-being, both physical and mental. They are also invested in your spiritual health. Logistically, they help students prepare for their careers, as well as resources and support to help you find childcare, if needed.
Location and lifestyle
The University of Sydney is Australia’s oldest university. The university is located in the Sydney metropolitan area and beyond, including the Great Barrier Reef. However, the heart of the campus is in the Camperdown and Darlington areas, which offer a vibrant and diverse lifestyle.
University of Melbourne
Location: Melbourne
Acceptance Rate: 70-80%
Tuition: $105,900 AUD
Ranking: #27 Best Global Universities
Overview
The University of Melbourne is Australia’s second oldest university and is a public university focused on research. The University of Melbourne is also the highest-ranked university in global polls and is Australia’s top university.
Programs and support for international students
Before you apply, you can take a virtual tour of the campus and explore the cost of living guide. The university offers accommodation to all incoming students, subject to availability. You can also connect with an overseas representative of the university in your home country.
Location and lifestyle
The university’s campus is both traditional and modern, offering a unique learning environment. Students have easy access to downtown Melbourne via public transportation. The university focuses on independent learning, research, and innovation.
Monash University
Location: Melbourne
Acceptance Rate: 40%
Tuition: $45,000 AUD
Ranking: #35 Best Global Universities
Overview
Monash is a public research university in Melbourne. It’s prominent in medical research and well-known for its large foreign student population. If you’re looking for a multicultural university experience, Monash is for you.
Programs and support for international students
Monash University offers different scholarships for international students. They also have different English language classes to help you improve your skills if English is not your native tongue. The university offers both on- and off-campus housing, which you can tour in advance.
Location and lifestyle
In Melbourne, Monash students will have access to a vibrant and dynamic university community and the larger Melbourne community. International students have a lot of positive things to say about their experiences at Monash.
University of Queensland
Location: Brisbane
Acceptance Rate: 40%
Tuition: $45,000 AUD
Ranking: #41 Best Global Universities
Overview
Located in Brisbane, University of Queensland, or “UQ” to locals, is one of the oldest universities in Australia. It’s a public research university in the capital city of the state of Queensland. The main campus is in the St Lucia neighbourhood, which is just outside of the Brisbane central business district.
Programs and support for international students
The University of Queensland has a cost of living guide that can help you plan your financial future if you’re attending the university. They have housing options that suit your preferences, whether you want to live on or off campus. Services provided by the university help to ensure that you’re healthy and safe while studying at UQ.
Location and lifestyle
UQ has three campuses in Brisbane: St Lucia, Herston, and Dutton Park. Regardless of which one you choose, you’ll be immersed in an active and inviting Australian city. Brisbane offers a wide variety of food and drink options, museums, and access to natural spaces.
How to apply to Australian universities
Ready to take your education to the next level in Australia? Applying to a university is an involved, but clear process. Typically, you’ll apply directly to the universities that you’re considering by sending in an application either online or by mail.
Entry requirements
If you’re applying to a university, you’ll usually have to include transcripts of all your previous education. If you’re an international applicant and you attended school outside of Australia, these transcripts might have to be assessed by a third party or translated into English. If you’re looking to get credits for past schooling, you’ll usually have to include more information, like course descriptions or syllabi.
If your native language is not English and you have not previously studied in English, you’ll likely have to submit English proficiency scores. Commonly accepted tests are the IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE.
Personal documents, like a copy of your passport and proof of funding, will be requested as part of your application. Be sure to check with both your university and your specific program to fully understand the entry requirements.
Step-by-step application instructions
- Choose your university
Research different universities and programs to ensure you’ll be happy and fulfilled at your institution of choice. Be sure to consider academic offerings, living situations, tuition, and extracurricular activities. Many applications choose a few different schools that they like and apply to them all.
- Gather your documents
Review the required documentation for the application. Collect all of your documents and ensure that they are in a format and language that is accepted by your target universities.
- Submit your application
Most applicants submit their applications directly to their target universities. The most common way to apply is online through the universities’ applicant portal. Applying online ensures your documents are received securely and in a timely fashion. There is usually also an option to submit a physical application through the post. Remember to pay attention to different application deadlines; they vary based on school.
- Receive admission and Electric Confirmation of Acceptance (eCoA)
If you are accepted to a university you’ll receive an Electric Confirmation of Acceptance or eCoA. This is the document that you need to apply for a student visa through the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
- Apply for a student visa if necessary
Submit required documents, including the eCoA, to apply for a student visa. There is a fee associated with this application and you may be required to report for an interview.
FAQs
Which Australian university has the highest population of foreign students?
Based on surveys from past academic years, RMIT University has the highest population of international students. Second on the list is Monash University, which is featured in this article.
What Australian universities offer the most acceptances?
Australian universities are known for high acceptance rates. La Trobe University, University of Newcastle, and Charles Darwin University have smoother application processes for international students.
How can non-citizens fund their education in Australia?
You can fund your education through a mix of scholarships, grants, and loans. Although there are many options, you can check out the Australia Awards Scholarships. These scholarships provide opportunities for people from developing countries to undertake full-time study in Australia.