10 Best Universities In Australia For International Students (2025)

If you’re planning to study in Australia, here are the 10 best universities in Australia for international students based on the QS University Rankings that PTE Magic has compiled.

Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

Australia draws thousands of international students worldwide yearly.
Six Australian cities rank among the top 50 for students, and nine universities are in the global top 100.
Below are the best universities in Australia for international students based on QS University Rankings.

Related:

A Guide to Studying in Australia

Australia draws thousands of international students worldwide yearly, especially those from Asia and Africa. Aside from the fact that Australia is the home of nature and wildlife, it’s also the country of some of the best universities in the world. Accordingly, there are six Australian cities rank among the top 50 for students, and nine universities are in the global top 100.

However, Australia’s tuition isn’t cheap, as it’s one of the pricier destinations for students to study abroad. Some recommended solutions for this issue are sharing an apartment, home cooking, or following a budget plan, which can make a big difference.

Here is what you should expect to spend:

Rent (shared apartment): $500–$1,000
Transportation pass: $65–$175
Groceries: $300–$400
Utilities: $35–$70

Remember, these numbers will change based on the city and lifestyle you choose to live in Australia.

Top 10 Best Universities In Australia For International Students

University of Melbourne

Melbourne is a famous city for nightlife, sports, and arts. It also has one of the world’s finest universities – the University of Melbourne. Ranked 13th in the QS World University Rankings, this university offers a great academic experience.

What makes Melbourne special is the vast selection of international cuisines, which can satisfy foodies. Moreover, sports lovers will find professional teams competing every weekend here, while shoppers will get lost in the massive number of boutique stores. If you’re adventurous, the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles, and Bells Beach are great places to discover.

So, why should you choose the University of Melbourne?

Academic excellence: This is a global leading university in sports-related subjects, law, education, and social policy.
Dynamic environment: Located in a city with lots of energy and creativity.
Various opportunities: Enjoy world-class facilities for your unforgettable student life.

University of Sydney

Next on the list is the University of Sydney, an institution located in the city that possesses many landmarks and various lifestyles. The University of Sydney is proudly ranked 18th in the global ranking, its sports-related subjects, nursing, pharmacy, and engineering are the most studied areas that international students choose when applying here.

Students who had the chance to study at the University of Sydney also had better benefits regarding sightseeing, as its location is near top destinations such as the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach.

Plus, the Newtown area is full of diversity and creativity. You’ll see hipsters in sleek suits – a cultural style in Sydney that fascinates many people.

Why should you choose the University of Sydney?

World-Class Education: Top global rankings with various and thorough programs.
Convenient Location: Close to the city, which brings up hassle-free benefits and conveniences.
Has a great Community: You will have a better chance to explore new cultures, ideas, and lifestyles.

University of New South Wales (UNSW)

University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney is your gateway to global opportunities. Its 19th global ranking makes it a great choice for students who want to follow engineering, law, and accounting careers.

Aside from the stunning beaches, the school’s location is ideal for students who looking to intern while studying. This city is the open door to practical experiences outside your classroom lessons.

Plus, the university offers cultural experiences with its local festivals. This is a good place for international students if they want to learn and educate themselves with deeper discoveries of this land.

Australian National University (ANU)

Canberra is where one of the world’s most popular institutions – the Australian National University (ANU) – is located. With its 30th ranking, international students mostly choose ANU in fields such as geography, philosophy, anthropology, and politics.

Additionally, ANU is famous for its six Nobel achievers and two prime ministers among the school’s alumni. It is also the only Australian member of the International Alliance of Research Universities, which can be an opportunity for any students who want to step into global research collaborations.

Furthermore, in Canberra, students can experience the culture with its many museums and research institutes. Students might also love the seasons here, with

Why should you choose the Australian National University?

Great global connections: Being a student at this university means you’ll have a better chance to discover this elite research alliance through its connections.
Well-known alumni: The school has had a famous history of producing experts in science, politics, and more.
Student-focused learning: Students have a better opportunity to evolve themselves with small class sizes here.

Monash University

The Monash is known for its pharmacy, education, engineering, and nursing courses, which also are the reasons for this school’s 37th global ranking. However, what makes this institution different is that it is transitioning to 100% renewable energy. The environment-focused approach lets students participate in projects to reduce campus-wide environmental impact. This is excellent because it’s building up acknowledgment for the students to a more sustainable future.

Additionally, Melbourne itself is a city that also applies these values. International students will encounter many detailed programs in waste reduction, water conservation, and renewable energy adoption if they choose to study in this city.

University of Queensland

Located along the Brisbane River, the University of Queensland (UQ) just needs a few minutes from downtown and a short train ride from the Gold Coast for you to reach it. The global ranks this school 40th in 2024, for its engineering, environmental science, and psychology subjects are well recommended.

UQ also stands out for its commitment to student life. The university is a good environment for students who want to participate in sports teams and clubs.

Why should you choose the University of Queensland?

Convenient Location: Students here can enjoy a campus close to Brisbane’s city center and beaches.
Excellent Programs: Its engineering, environmental science, and psychology subjects are recognised globally.
Strong Sports Culture: The school welcomes students of all levels to join their thriving sports clubs, which is ideal for sporty people.

University of Western Australia (UWA)

This institution has a global rank of 77th, which is a top choice for students who love studying engineering, earth sciences, health sciences, and sports-related subjects.

The UWA is located in Perth, an isolated city that possesses natural wonders. If you choose to study at the University of Western Australia, get ready to surf the waves and explore the nearby islands for a weekend relaxation.

Why should you choose the University of Western Australia?

Excellent in science subjects: With great teaching methods in engineering, geology, and anatomy & physiology, this school is for students who love science.
Breathtaking location: The school is located in an area that is full of sunny skies and beautiful beaches, which is perfect for studying and sightseeing.
Good Intern Opportunities: With its good global research connections, the UWA offers better chances for innovation and discovery for students who want more practical experiences.

University of Adelaide

Adelaide is in the heart of Australia. This place has a unique blend of nature and urban beauty. Studying in this city means you can easily visit South Australia’s iconic landscapes, such as the Pink Lakes, the Limestone Coast, and the Outback. Additionally, international students can try food tours and boutique shopping or study in this ideal atmosphere.

The University of Adelaide is ranked 82nd globally. Many students apply to this institution for engineering, dentistry, and veterinary science programs. Furthermore, its supportive environment offers students career and mental health counseling, which to some international students is a blessing.

Why should you choose the University of Adelaide?

Great programs: Highly ranked in engineering, dentistry, and veterinary science courses.
Near many Natural Wonders: Surrounded by South Australia’s beauty, which is perfect for weekend tours and sightseeing.
Excellent Support: This school has a student-focused approach with many counseling services and campus clubs.

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is suitable for creative students. The global institutions ranked this place 88th. Some of its recommended subjects are art and design, nursing, and library science.

Why should you choose the University of Technology Sydney?

Focus on innovation: UTS is a leader in technological advancements. Its interconnected campuses will inspire students with lots of collaborations.
Engaging programs: UTS encourages its students to think outside the box, by offering many entrepreneurship and leadership programs.
Excellent location: Sydney’s culture will motivate and increase the creativity of international students.

James Cook University

James Cook University (JCU) is on Australia’s northeastern coast in Townsville and Cairns. This institution offers a great studying experience along with Queensland’s nature. With a 445th rank in the global QS ranking, some of its better educational courses are earth and marine sciences, agriculture, hospitality, and archaeology.

The Good Universities Guide has given James Cook University a five-star rating for students who have graduated from this school and have been successful with their jobs. The rating has been consecutive for six consecutive years. Although it has a lower rank compared to the universities above, JCU has a close-knit community where students are supported by personalised learning experiences.

Why should you choose the James Cook University?

Specialised subjects: Good research material regarding environmental and marine sciences subjects.
Good Location: The school is located in Cairns and Townsville, where students have more opportunities to explore a lifestyle with tropical vibes, beaches, coral reefs, and rainforests.

Conclusion

If you’re planning to study in this sunny country, PTE Academic is your crucial initial step to get into the best universities in Australia for international students. Explore more PTE Magic blogs to reach your academic dreams starting today!

Last updated on 10/01/2025