How to Choose the Right University in Australia?

Australia is a top-notch destination for international students, with approximately 1,100 institutions offering over 22,000 courses. Among these institutions, there are more than forty universities that offer thousands of courses to international students. So, choosing the right university in Australia is not an easy task. However, with proper knowledge and guidance, you can choose the right university. 

 

There are several factors to consider when choosing a university, including university ranking, network, location, culture, and top scholarships. Continue reading this blog post, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the important factors that play a crucial role in selecting the appropriate university.

 

How to Choose the Right University in Australia?

Choosing the right university in Australia is a big decision, as it will shape your career and goals in the future. So, if you are thinking about studying in Australia, you must choose the best university for you. Here are some important things to consider when choosing the right university in Australia:

 

• Research the universities
• Check university rankings
• Check the university network
• Check eligibility requirements
• Consider the location of the university
• Check the availability of the course
• Explore Different Scholarship Options

 

Let’s discuss these important points in detail to get proper knowledge about selecting the best university in Australia.

1. Research the Universities

Start by making a list of the top universities in Australia. Visit the websites of these universities, read student reviews, and participate in online discussion boards to learn more about the experiences of students. Check their courses, facilities, and campus life. Then, shortlist universities with courses and extracurricular activities that align with your preferences and interests. 

 

2. Check University Rankings

University rankings are extremely helpful when it comes to choosing the right university because they give you an idea about the quality of education. Therefore, global and national rankings should be checked to compare the universities. Top-ranked universities usually have better facilities, staff, and resources.

 

Here is the ranking of Australian universities according to World University Ranking 2024 by Time Higher Education.

 

University	Rank (Times Higher Education)
University of Melbourne	37th
Monash University	54th
Australian National University	67th
The University of Queensland	70th
UNSW Sydney	84th
University of Adelaide	111th
University of Western Australia	143rd
University of Technology Sydney	148th

 

What are the most common factors used to evaluate a university’s ranking?

Each university has its own unique method for its scoring system. However, the most often utilized criteria for assessing an organization are:

 

• Total number of students.
• International students percentage.
• Student-teacher ratio.
• Quality of education.
• Volume of research and citations.

 

Once you’ve made the list of famous universities, it is important to check the university network or collaboration with other organizations. 

 

3. Check University Network

Examining the network of universities where you will be studying is also crucial.  Networks consist of organizations and groups that usually have the same vision and goal. Therefore, checking the network of universities will help you discover the institution’s primary focus. 

 

Basically, there are three main university networks in Australia:

• Group of Eight (Go8)
• Australian Technology Network (ATN)
• Innovative Research Universities (IRU)

 

Let’s explore each network in depth to develop a better understanding.

Group of Eight (Go8)

 

The Group of Eight (Go8) features top-ranked universities in Australia. These universities are known for their high-quality education and research. More than 40% of Australia’s engineering graduates and more than half of the nation’s physicians, dentists, and veterinarians receive their education from Go8 institutions. Moreover, about one-third of all postgraduate students in Australia are enrolled in programs offered by the Go8.

 

 

The eight universities of Go8 are: 

• The University of Melbourne (Melbourne)
• The University of Adelaide (Adelaide)
• The University of Queensland (Brisbane)
• The University of Western Australia (Perth)
• Monash University (Melbourne)
• The University of Sydney (Sydney)
• The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (Sydney)
• Australian National University (Canberra)

 

Australian Technology Network (ATN)

The Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN) unites the six practical Australian universities. It emphasizes enterprise, impact, and problem-solving skills to improve the nation’s economy and solve social problems.

These universities invest in research in sectors including business, IT, architecture, environmental protection, engineering, and nursing. The Australian Technology Network consists of the following Australian universities:

 

• University of Technology Sydney (Sydney)
• RMIT University (Melbourne)
• University of South Australia (UniSA) (Adelaide)
• Curtin University (Perth)
• The University of Newcastle
• Deakin University

 

Innovative Research Universities (IRU)

The Innovative Research Universities (IRU) are a group of public universities in Australia.  The IRU is dedicated to inclusive education and advanced research that benefits the Australian community. The IRU universities often collaborate with other organizations in Australia and the Indo-Pacific region, thus creating a bigger impact for the future of Australia.

 

The IRU universities include the following:

• Charles Darwin University (Darwin)
• Flinders University (Adelaide)
• Griffith University (Brisbane, Gold Coast)
• James Cook University (Townsville)
• La Trobe University (Melbourne)
• Murdoch University (Perth)
• Western Sydney University (Sydney)

 

4. Check the Availability of Courses

So, after checking the ranking and network, make sure that the university offers the course you want to study. Each university has its own distinct advantages and areas of expertise. While some are well known for their innovative technological programs, others are exceptional in the humanities and arts.

Therefore, look at the course details (subjects, duration, and any special requirements)  and see if it aligns with your career goals. In addition to this, search for instructors who have a track record of success in academics, research, and industry expertise. After all, learning is more enjoyable when it’s accompanied by experience. 

5. Consider the Location of the University

Australia is a big country with many vibrant cities and regions. Therefore, you must consider the location before moving to the country. Choosing the right location depends upon whether you prefer a big city like Sydney or Melbourne? Or do you like smaller and regional areas? Consider the climate, cost of living, and lifestyle in each location. 

 

Big cities like Sydney and Melbourne usually have higher costs of living than smaller towns, which are more budget-friendly. So, think about what you can afford and how far you can go. If you are on a low budget, it is best to look for the cheapest universities. 

 

Here, I’ve carefully outlined the top 10 cheapest universities in Australia for international students in 2024:

 

• University of Southern Queensland
• University of Sunshine Coast
• Griffith University
• University of Divinity
• Western Sydney University
• Charles Sturt University
• University of Queensland
• Edith Cowan University
• Federation University Australia
• University of Wollongong

Click here to read about the Cheapest Cities to Live in Australia in 2024. 

 

6. Explore Different Scholarship Options

The Australian Government offers scholarships for all international students enrolling in undergraduate, Masters, PhD or Postgraduate degrees. Here is the list of top Australian scholarships for international students with added extras such as health cover.

 

• Melbourne Research Scholarship
• Carnegie Mellon University Scholarships
• Swinburne International Excellence Scholarships
• Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
• Australia Awards Scholarships to Participating Institutions
• International Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship at Bond University

 

Keep in mind that this is just a short list. You can explore more scholarships that Australia offers to support students. Moreover, remember that you will have to meet certain eligibility requirements to avail of a scholarship. 

7. Check Eligibility Requirements

No matter how much you research to choose the ideal university, the most important thing that will help you through the admissions process is meeting the eligibility criteria. Each university in Australia has different requirements that international students must fulfill. However, there are certain requirements that almost all universities are mandated to fulfill. These requirements include:

 

• For undergraduate programs, a high school completion certificate is required.
• For postgraduate programs, a course completion certificate is required.
• A valid passport and student visa.
• Evidence of financial support.
• A letter of recommendation.
• Evidence of English language proficiency.

8. Explore the Campus Culture

The history of the campus and the changes it has undergone year after year have an impact on the culture and atmosphere of a university. Choosing a school that complements your personality can have a beneficial impact on your entire academic career and help mold your future. Therefore, make sure to research the culture of the campus you are applying to. 

 

Nowadays, social media is revolutionary, and there’s no better way to learn about a university’s culture than by browsing its social media pages. You can also visit their websites to learn more about the course curriculum and other extracurricular activities.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right university in Australia can be challenging, but it’s worth the effort. Think about what matters most to you, like the courses offered, the location, and the support services available. Take your time to research and compare different universities. 

Look into their rankings, networks, and the opportunities they provide. Don’t forget to consider scholarships and the overall cost of living. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve your academic and career goals. 

 

FAQs

What do Australian universities look for in applicants?

The Australian universities put an emphasis on personal statements, academic credentials, English language test results, and, for some programs, portfolios and interviews. Usually, these universities don’t ask for letters of recommendation as part of the admission process. 

What are your reasons for choosing to study in Australia?

Here are some of the most important reasons why students choose Australia for study purposes:

• A high-quality education system.
• Diverse culture and friendly community.
• Chance to get international exposure.
• Beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities.
• Great environment for learning and development.

What are the eligibility criteria to apply to an Australian university?

If you want to study as a bachelor in Australia, you must have at least 65% marks in the XII standard. However, for a master’s degree, a bachelor’s degree with 3 years or 12 years of equivalent education is required. 

Which university in Australia has a 100% acceptance rate?

La Trobe University has a 100% acceptance rate. It is often placed in the top 1.3% of all educational institutions worldwide. Every year, La Trobe University takes in about 7,000 international students. Additionally, this university is ranked 14th in the nation for employability.