Best Universities in Australia: Rankings, Courses & Scholarships

List of Top Universities in Australia for International Students

In QS World University Rankings 2026, nine out of the top 10 universities in Australia are positioned amongst the best 100. Cutting-edge research and outstanding academic and teaching standards are contributing factors to the success of universities.

Here are the top 10 best Universities in Australia for higher studies:

1. University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne is a flagship institution for research and postgraduate studies, established in 1853. It welcomes around 45% of the international students from more than 150 nationalities. Its Indian Graduate Students Society (IGSS) emphasizes cultural, professional and transitional support to the Indian learners. 

2. University of New South Wales

UNSW is a core member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight (G08), and recognized globally as a research-intensive powerhouse. It is one of the best IT university in Australia, particularly popular for its excellence in technology, Engineering and Business programmes. UNSW student life oversees more than 330 clubs and societies, like UNSW Indian Society and the UNSW India Future Change scholarship.

 3. University of Sydney

University of Sydney, in a recent report, shows the highest population of its total enrolments. It enrolls a vast number of South Asian students each year from several countries. It includes China, India, Nepal, Vietnam, Malaysia and more. The University of Sydney Union manages more than 250 clubs, including Ekansh Indian Cultural Society and South Asia Business Society.

4. Australian National University

Among the top-level 1 universities in Australia, the ANU is highly regarded for its staff-to-student ratio. It hosts around 40% of the total student population internationally. The institution is well-renowned for the high quality of student life and safety. Its total employment rate is high, giving it a reputation for producing Australia’s most employable graduates.

5. Monash University

The university is renowned as the best institution in Australia and boasts over 470,000 alumni worldwide. It is situated in the Southeast Australian State of Victoria, and is a global powerhouse for Pharmaceutical sciences and engineering. It has multiple clubs, student groups and activities for all kinds of interests. Monash Indian Cultural Society (MICS), Monash Multicultural Indian Club (MMIC) and over 100 student unions are part of the student clubs.

6. University of Queensland

University of Queensland is the cheapest University in Australia, and is recognized globally for its world-class research, especially in biotechnology, medicine and Engineering. This campus features a variety of events, performances, festivals and facilities, like clubs, groups, art and museums. It has more than 200 clubs and societies, including the UQ Indian Student Club and the UQ International Students’ Society (UQISS).

7. University of Western Australia

UWA was established in 1911 and is a member of the Group of Eight (G08). It hosts 29% to 30% of the international students and boasts over 150,000 graduates globally. UWA is known for the most employable graduates, recognized for its strengths in Marine Science, Agriculture and Earth Sciences.

8. Adelaide University

This is Australia’s first purpose-built, high-technology institution, formed by the merger of the South Australia College and the University of Adelaide. It stands out in the top 100 position of the QS ranking. Adelaide is well-renowned for its strengths in Health Sciences, Engineering, and Food Science. Adelaide University Indian Students’ Association and over 120 clubs are important student groups that support cultural and sports interests.

9. University of Technology Sydney

This is one of the 10 best Universities in Australia, known for its dynamic, globally focused and career-oriented education. The major areas are technology, engineering and design, and it is consistently ranked as the best institute. Since it is located in the creative and digital hub in Sydney, it has a strong focus on industry partnerships and prizes.

10. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology

RMIT is one of the public universities in Australia and excels in design, technology and vocational education (VET). It is highly respected for its practical, work-integrated learning model and its close ties to industry. With this, it boasts more than 450,000 graduates globally. RMIT Indian Club and RMIT Student Union are its famous society which manages a wide array of over 100 cultural and academic clubs.

You can also explore our University finder tool, which is AI-based and designed with filters for seamless search.

Also Read: Group of 8 Universities in Australia

How to Choose the Right Australian University for You?

You might be confused regarding the best colleges in Australia for international students after reading the credibility and success rate of the above top universities.

Here is the guide to select the best universities in Australian and make the most out of it from a career perspective:

1. Select the institute based on your course requirements, not overall Australian University rankingsfor higher studies.
2. Check out all the necessary entry requirements to ensure you meet the academic and English score criteria.
3. Cross-check the tuition fees of all the prominent institutions and see which one fits your budget.
4. Explore the graduate employment outcomes and the respective internship opportunities.
5. Check available scholarships for international students.
6. Review campus facilities, student support and accommodation options.
7. Lastly, but most importantly, prefer universities that offer better post-study work visa advantages.

Eligibility Criteria and Documents Required to Study in Australia

As of now, we have established everything from the top universities to how to choose them to study in Australia.

Now you must have a thorough understanding of the eligibility criteria and documentation:

Eligibility Criteria

1. Academic Requirements

• Complete 10+2 or equivalent with good scores
• Specific subjects are required depending on the course type.

2. Language Proficiency

Primarily, universities require standardized proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS and TOEFL. The minimum score may vary, but usually 6.0 to 7.0 is for IELTS, 60 to 100 for TOEFL and 50 to 60 for PTE.

Required Documents

Here is the important document required for admission in top universities in Australia for masters or graduation program:

1. Transcripts of academic records of the previous educational institutions.
2. Degree certificates (for postgraduate courses).
3. Proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
4. Bank statement or proof of funds.
5. Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from an Australian University.
6. Statement of purpose (SOP)
7. Letter of recommendation (LOR)

Also Read: Scholarship in Australia for Indian Students

Admission Process for the Best Universities in Australia

After finalizing the right universities, the admission process is the next important task to follow to the best Universities in Australia for international students:

1. Visit the official website of your desired university in Australia.
2. Start the new application procedure by selecting your courses and intake.
3. Fill out the important details of yours, including personal, academic and English score details.
4. Now upload the important documents, like transcripts, passport, SOP, LOR and resume.
5. Double-check and submit the application form.
6. Pay the application fee and submit the online form.
7. Lastly, accept the offer letter and pay the initial tuition deposit, then receive your CoE.

Also Read:  Intakes in Australia

Conclusion

You must have understood by now that opting for the right Australian University is all about aligning your goals with the institute that supports your career ambitions and academic goals. The best Australian universities empower students to thrive globally and provide post-study opportunities. Still, if you get stuck at any point, you can take assistance from our study abroad consultants at Gradding.com. They will help you make informed decisions and take the next step towards a successful future in Australia.

FAQ’s

1. How Many Universities are there in Australia?

Australia have a total of 44 universities in Australia, of which 39 are public and 5 are private.

2. How Much Does It Cost to Study at the Best Universities in Australia?

The cost to study in Australia for international students ranges from approximately INR 1.9 L to INR 2.65 L. 

3. What Documents Are Needed to Apply to an Australian University?

Important documents include:

1. Academic Transcripts
2. English Language Proficiency Test Score
3. Passport
4. SOP
5. LOR
6. CV (if you have work experience)

4. What is the Acceptance Rate of Top Australian Universities?

Here is the acceptance rate of the top five Australian Universities:

1. Australian National University: 35%
2. University of Melbourne: 70%–80%
3. University of Sydney: 30%
4. University of Adelaide: 75%
5. University of New South Wales: 60%

5. Do Australian Universities Offer Scholarships for International Students?

Yes, Australian Universities provide numerous scholarships, like government-funded and university-specific options. The important ones are:

1. Australia Awards Scholarships
2. Deakin University Vice-Chancellor International Scholarship
3. University of Sydney International Scholarships.