Top universities in Australia for international students: rankings, courses, fees and how to apply (2026)
Australia is a leading destination for international students, with high-ranking universities, a long post-study work tradition and several intakes each year. Its student visa system has also been tightened with caps and higher fees, so check the latest rules.
Rankings
In QS 2027, UNSW Sydney ranked 19th, the first time it has been Australia's top university in the table. QS said 58% of Australian universities rose in this edition. Other major universities include the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, ANU, Monash and the University of Queensland, which belong to the "Group of Eight" research-intensive universities. Check their current QS rankings on the QS website.
What you can study
Australian bachelor's degrees usually last three years (four for engineering, honours and some professional degrees), and master's degrees last one to two years. Popular fields for international students include information technology, engineering, business and accounting, health, education and hospitality. Several universities offer industry placements, and professional degrees such as engineering and nursing connect to local registration standards.
What international students pay
Fees vary by course. A third-party 2026 summary gives approximate annual tuition ranges, in Australian dollars:
| University | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
|---|---|---|
| UNSW Sydney | 36,000 to 50,000 | 32,000 to 48,000 |
| University of Melbourne | 36,000 to 50,000 | 32,000 to 50,000 |
| University of Sydney | 38,000 to 52,000 | 34,000 to 50,000 |
| ANU | 36,000 to 48,000 | 30,000 to 46,000 |
| Monash | 32,000 to 48,000 | 28,000 to 45,000 |
| University of Queensland | 32,000 to 48,000 | 30,000 to 46,000 |
Medicine, dentistry and veterinary degrees cost more. Living costs depend on the city: the same summary estimates roughly AUD 2,600 to 4,400 a month in Sydney and AUD 2,300 to 3,900 in Melbourne.
Student visa (subclass 500)
- Fee: the student visa application fee has risen sharply in recent years. One third-party site still shows an older AUD 710, so check the Department of Home Affairs website for the current amount.
- Genuine Student requirement: you must show a genuine intention to study and a clear reason for choosing your course and university.
- Funds: you must show financial capacity for tuition, living costs and travel. The living-cost figure is updated by the government periodically.
- Health cover: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the length of your visa.
- English: a recognised test such as IELTS, TOEFL or PTE, unless exempt.
- Caps: the government sets a national planning level for new international enrolments, so universities can only issue a limited number of offers.
Admission process
- Choose a course and intake. Main intakes are February to March and July, with some universities offering others.
- Apply directly to the university or through an authorised agent. Check that any agent is registered.
- Submit transcripts, English scores, a statement of purpose and, where relevant, a portfolio.
- Receive a letter of offer, accept it and pay the required deposit.
- Receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- Apply for your student visa with the CoE, OSHC, funds and Genuine Student statement.
- Arrange accommodation and travel after the visa is granted.
After graduation
Eligible graduates can apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) for post-study work, with conditions changing over time.
Tips
- Apply for popular courses early, since offers can be capped.
- Keep a clear study plan to meet the Genuine Student test.
- Compare tuition per credit point as well as annual fees.
Sources: QS World University Rankings 2027 release, Australian cost summary (Gabble).
Rankings, fees and visa rules change every year. Figures here were checked in October 2026 against the sources listed, several of which are third-party summaries, so confirm each number on the university's and the government's own website before you apply. Visa Ray is not an admissions or immigration adviser. You can run a free assessment on Visa Ray to see which study and work pathways fit your profile.