Australian universities offer three main intakes annually: February (Semester 1), July (Semester 2), and November (Semester 3). Application deadlines typically fall in October–November for February intake, March–May for July, and June–August for November.
Level 1 universities in Australia refer to the country’s most prestigious and research-intensive public institutions. Out of the 48 universities in Australia, a select group consistently ranks in the top 200 globally for academic output, graduate employability, and innovation. These are commonly recognised as Level 1 universities.
With over 850,000 international students enrolled in 2024, Australia remains one of the leading destinations for universities in Australia offering quality higher education.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the top 11 Level 1 universitiesin Australia, including tuition, scholarships, placements, visa requirements, and entry criteria.
List of Top Level 1 Universities in Australia
Australia hosts over 850,000 international students (over 139,000 from India), and a large share of them study in its top-ranked public universities. These institutions are classified as Level 1 universities in Australia, known for high research output, academic reputation, and global employability rates. Each one consistently ranks in the top 200 globally.
The table below gives you a quick view of their QS 2025 rankings and average annual tuition fees for international students.
Thinking about a master’s degree after graduation? Explore the best options with upGrad’s detailed guide on universities in Australia for master's and find the perfect fit for your career goals. Discover programs, costs, and admission tips now.
Now that you know the rankings and costs, it’s time to understand each of these Level 1 universities in Australia in detail.
University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne promotes interdisciplinary study through its Melbourne Curriculum, letting you combine subjects across fields. International applicants need strong academic scores. Commerce, for example, requires an IB score of 36.
With over 20,000 international students, it provides a globally connected environment, supported by world-class research, a sustainability focus, and active alumni engagement.
The University of Sydney enrolls over 68,000 students, with approximately 30,000 international students from more than 130 countries. Applicants must meet academic and English language requirements, and may need to satisfy the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.
The university offers various scholarships and financial assistance programs to support international students.
UNSW Sydney enrolls over 64,000 students, including approximately 24,852 international students from more than 130 countries. Admissions are based on academic merit and English proficiency, with specific requirements varying by program.
The university offers a range of scholarships to support international students. UNSW's main campus is located in Kensington, Sydney, providing modern facilities and a vibrant student life.
The Australian National University (ANU), located in Canberra, enrolls over 17,000 students from more than 100 countries. Admissions require meeting academic and English proficiency standards.
ANU offers a range of scholarships, including the Chancellor's International Scholarship, which awards 200 scholarships annually with a 25% or 50% tuition fee reduction for eligible international students.
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
Number of Courses
250+
Popular Courses
Bachelor of Philosophy (PhB)
Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Engineering in Renewable Energy
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6.5
PTE: 64
TOEFL: 80
Cambridge English: 176
Monash University
Monash University enrolls 78,230 students, with 55,885 undergraduates and 18,346 postgraduates . The Clayton campus, hosting eight faculties, is the largest and serves as the main research hub .
Annually, over 300 living allowance scholarships are awarded, including approximately 70 for international students . Admissions require meeting academic and English proficiency standards.
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1958
Number of Courses
320+
Popular Courses
Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours)
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Data Science
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6.5
PTE: 58
TOEFL: 79
Cambridge English: 176
The University of Queensland
The University of Queensland (UQ) enrolls 55,441 students, including 21,574 international students from 141 countries. It offers 348 programs across its campuses. UQ's undergraduate full-time employment rate is 81%, surpassing the national average.
The St Lucia campus features extensive facilities, including 11 residential colleges and over 200 student clubs.
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1909
Number of Courses
340+
Popular Courses
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (Honours)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Engineering Science
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6.5
PTE: 64
TOEFL: 87
Cambridge English: 176
The University of Western Australia
The University of Western Australia (UWA) enrolls over 28,000 students, with approximately 7,900 international students from more than 100 countries. UWA offers over 1,500 active scholarships annually.
The Global Excellence Scholarship provides up to AUD 48,000 (INR 26L) for undergraduate students and up to AUD 24,000 (INR 13L) for postgraduate students. UWA ranks first in Western Australia for graduate employability.
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1911
Number of Courses
290+
Popular Courses
Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) (BPhil)
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Clinical Psychology
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6.5
PTE: 64
TOEFL: 82
Cambridge English: 176
University of Adelaide
The University of Adelaide enrolls over 27,000 students from more than 90 countries. It has almost 22,000 full-time equivalent students, including around 7,000 international students from 115 countries.
Graduate employability rates are high, with 88.3% of undergraduates and 93.3% of postgraduates employed. The main campus, North Terrace, is located in Adelaide's cultural district.
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1874
Number of Courses
400+
Popular Courses
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Petroleum)
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6.5
PTE: 58
TOEFL: 79
Cambridge English: 176
The University of Technology, Sydney
The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) enrolled 51,038 students in 2024, including 13,807 international students. The university offers over 400 scholarships, with awards ranging from 20% to 100% tuition coverage.
Graduate employment rates are strong with 77.5% for undergraduates and 87.1% for postgraduate coursework students. UTS is ranked 88th globally and 9th in Australia in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1988
Number of Courses
350+
Popular Courses
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Bachelor of Information Technology
Master of Data Science and Innovation
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6.5
PTE: 58-64
TOEFL: 79-93
Cambridge English: 176-184
Macquarie University
Macquarie University, located in Sydney, enrolls 44,015 students, including 10,181 international students from over 100 countries. The university's graduate employment rate is notable, with 88% of graduates employed within a year of course completion.
Macquarie's 126-hectare campus boasts modern facilities, including a recently reimagined central courtyard, which enhances the student experience.
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1964
Number of Courses
200+
Popular Courses
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Master of Applied Finance
Master of Marketing
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6.5
PTE: 58
TOEFL: 83
Cambridge English: 176
University of Wollongong
The University of Wollongong (UOW) enrolls over 33,000 students, including more than 12,300 international students from over 150 countries. The university boasts an 87% graduate employment rate within four months of course completion, surpassing the national average.
Its main campus spans 82.4 hectares in Wollongong and includes multiple regional and international campuses.
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1951
Number of Courses
300+
Popular Courses
Bachelor of Computer Science
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Master of Supply Chain Management
Master of Business Analytics
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6.5
PTE: 62
TOEFL: 82
Cambridge English: 176
Now, let’s check out the financial aid options international students have while studying at Level 1 universities in Australia.
Scholarships in Level 1 Universities for International Students
Studying at Level 1 universities in Australia can be costly, but both internal and external scholarships offer significant financial relief. For example, the University of Sydney provides up to AUD 40,000 (INR 21L) through its internal Vice-Chancellor’s scheme.
The following section covers the most valuable internal scholarships you should consider when planning your education.
Internal Scholarships for International Students in Australia
Top Level 1 universities in Australia offer competitive internal scholarships that can significantly reduce your tuition costs. For example, the University of Sydney offers up to AUD 40,000 (INR 21L), while the University of Queensland provides a 25% tuition fee reduction per semester.
The following internal scholarships are worth considering if you aim to study at a Level 1 university in Australia.
Name
Type of Scholarship
Benefits
Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
Undergraduate
- 25% tuition fee remission for the duration of the course.
Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships Scheme (University of Sydney)
Undergraduate/Postgraduate
- Up to AUD 40,000 (INR 21L) towards tuition fees.
UQ International Excellence Scholarship (University of Queensland)
Undergraduate/Postgraduate
- 25% tuition fee reduction per semester.
International Student Award (UNSW Sydney)
Undergraduate/Postgraduate
- 15% contribution towards tuition fees for every year of the program.
ANU Chancellor's International Scholarship (Australian National University)
Undergraduate/Postgraduate
- 25% or 50% tuition fee reduction, depending on the region and academic merit.
These internal funding options are only one part of what’s available. Many students also apply for external scholarships to cover additional costs.
External Scholarships for International Students in Australia
Several government bodies, independent foundations, and NGOs offer financial aid beyond what universities provide. For instance, the Australia Awards Scholarships cover full tuition, air travel, and living expenses, while the Destination Australia Program offers up to AUD 15,000 (INR 8L) annually for regional study.
These scholarships are crucial if you want to study at Level 1 universities in Australia without draining your finances. The following external scholarships can help you cut costs and access top academic institutions.
Name
Type of Scholarship
Benefits
Australia Awards Scholarships
Government-funded
Full tuition fees
Return air travel
Establishment allowance
Contribution to living expenses
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Destination Australia Program
Government-funded
Up to AUD 15,000 (INR 8L) per year for students studying in regional Australia
John Monash Scholarships
Independent foundation
AUD 70,000 (INR 38L) per year for postgraduate study at any overseas university
With your funding options covered, it’s time to understand how to apply to Level 1 universities in Australia and meet their requirements.
How to Take Admission in Level 1 Universities in Australia?
Gaining admission to Level 1 universities in Australia requires meeting specific academic and language criteria. For instance, the University of Melbourne mandates completion of Year 12 or its equivalent for undergraduate programs.
The following table outlines the general admission requirements for international students:
Usually required for postgraduate courses, especially research-intensive programs
Statement of Purpose / Personal Statement
Explains motivation, academic goals, and career plans (mostly for PG) through SOPs.
Portfolio or Work Samples
For programs like architecture, design, fine arts, journalism (case-dependent)
Resume or CV
Required for postgraduate applicants, especially MBA or professional degrees
Work Experience
Needed for some postgraduate business, education, or public health programs
Interviews
Occasionally required for competitive PG programs like Medicine or MBA
Application Fee
Charged by most universities at the time of application
Passport Copy
Proof of identity and citizenship
Note: Requirements may vary depending on the specific university and program. Please refer to the university's website for the latest updates.
Having familiarized yourself with the requirements, it's essential to understand the step-by-step admission process to ensure a successful application. Here’s how you can apply to level 1 universities in Australia:
Research and Select Courses and Universities
Identify programs that align with your academic interests and career goals.
Use official university websites to gather information on course content, entry requirements, and application deadlines.
Check Entry Requirements
Verify academic prerequisites for your chosen program.
Ensure you meet the English language proficiency standards set by the university.
Prepare Necessary Documents
Academic transcripts and certificates.
English language test scores.
Letters of recommendation (if required).
Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement.
Portfolio or work samples (for specific programs).
Resume or CV (for postgraduate applications).
Valid passport copy.
Submit Applications
Apply directly through the university's official application portal.
Alternatively, use centralized admission centers like UAC or VTAC, depending on the university's location.
Pay Application Fees: Most universities require a non-refundable application fee upon submission.
Await Offer Letter: If accepted, you will receive an offer letter detailing the course, fees, and other essential information.
Accept the Offer and Pay the Tuition Deposit
Confirm your acceptance by signing and returning the offer letter.
Pay the required tuition deposit to secure your place.
Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the university.
Apply for the student visa through the Department of Home Affairs.
Arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Purchase OSHC as it's mandatory for international students in Australia.
Plan for Arrival: Organize accommodation, travel, and attend orientation programs as scheduled by the university.
Now, let’s explore how you can apply for a student visa for Australia in the next section.
Student Visa Process for Australia
Securing a student visa is a crucial step in your journey to study at Level 1 universities in Australia. The Subclass 500 visa permits you to stay in Australia for up to five years, depending on your course duration. As of January 2025, the application fee is AUD 1,600 (INR 88K).
Secure admission to a full-time course at a registered Australian institution.
Receive a CoE from the institution, which is mandatory for the visa application.
Create an ImmiAccount: Register on the Department of Home Affairs website to manage your visa application online.
Prepare Required Documents:
Valid passport.
CoE for each course applied.
Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses (minimum AUD 29,710/INR 16.1L), and travel costs.
Evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.
English language proficiency test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Statement of Purpose detailing your study plans and intentions.
Health examination reports, if required.
Police clearance certificates to meet character requirements.
Complete the Visa Application:
Log in to your ImmiAccount and fill out the Subclass 500 visa application form.
Upload all necessary documents.
Pay the visa application fee of AUD 1,600 (INR 88K)
Attend Biometrics Appointment: If instructed, provide biometric information at a designated center.
Await Visa Decision
Processing times vary; apply well in advance of your course start date.
Monitor your ImmiAccount for updates and additional requests.
Receive Visa Grant Notification: Upon approval, you'll receive details of your visa conditions and validity.
Next, we will explore how to select the best Level 1 universities in Australia to align with your academic and career goals.
How to Select the Best Level 1 Universities in Australia?
Choosing the right university from the top Level 1 universities in Australia requires more than just rankings. Each institution offers distinct advantages in terms of course structure, graduate employability, and campus environment. The following factors will help you compare and select the best Level 1 university in Australia for your goals.
Review the Subject Rankings and Research Strength
Use the QS Subject Rankings to see which universities perform best in your intended field. For instance, ANU excels in politics and social sciences.
Check for industry-focused research centers or institutes, such as the Melbourne Energy Institute at the University of Melbourne.
Assess Graduate Employability and Placement Records
Look into employability rankings and job placement reports. The University of Sydney ranks among the top 5 in Australia for graduate employability.
Evaluate partnerships with recruiters and industries relevant to your field. UNSW has strong ties with Deloitte and KPMG for business and tech roles.
Consider Campus Location and Living Expenses
Compare costs of living in cities like Sydney, Brisbane, or Adelaide. For example, Adelaide is often 20–25% cheaper than Sydney.
Think about access to part-time job opportunities or internships in the area where the university is located.
Check Entry Requirements and Admission Flexibility
Some universities have more competitive GPA or ELP cut-offs. For example, the University of Queensland accepts IELTS 6.5, but some courses may ask for 7.0.
Investigate if the university accepts alternative qualifications or credits, especially if you have prior study or work experience.
Explore Campus Facilities and Support Services
Look for academic support services like writing centers, language support, or mentorship programs.
Review housing options, on-campus labs, innovation hubs, or sports facilities that may add to your student life experience.
Compare Available Scholarships and Financial Aid
Review internal and external scholarships available at each university. The ANU Chancellor’s Scholarship offers up to 50% tuition fee coverage.
Check if scholarships renew annually or are one-time grants, and understand the GPA requirements to retain them.
Making an informed decision can set the tone for your academic success and future career. Next, explore the career opportunities that await you in Australia after graduating from a Level 1 university.
Career Opportunities in Australia After Graduation
Graduates from Level 1 universities in Australia enjoy access to some of the country’s highest-paying roles. For instance, a Marketing Manager earns an average of AUD 120K (INR 65.34L) annually, while Software Engineers and Business Analysts make AUD 100K (INR 54.45L) on average.
These roles are open to both domestic and international graduates with in-demand skills. The table below shows typical roles and salaries you can expect after graduation.
Job Roles
Average Annual Salary (AUD)
Average Annual Salary (INR)
Software Engineer
AUD 100K
INR 54.45L
Operation Manager
AUD 118K
INR 64.25L
Business Analyst
AUD 100K
INR 54.45L
Mechanical Engineer
AUD 90K
INR 49.01L
Marketing Manager
AUD 120K
INR 65.34L
Source: Glassdoor
Note: The INR amounts are calculated based on the current exchange rate of 1 AUD = INR 54.45.
Graduating from a top-ranked university increases your employability and earning potential across various industries.
Top Recruiter in Australia
Graduates from Level 1 universities in Australia are highly sought after by top employers across various industries. These organizations offer structured graduate programs, competitive salaries, and clear career progression pathways.
Below is a list of ten prominent graduate employers in Australia, along with their respective industries:
Name
Industry
Capgemini
Management Consulting
Canva
Technology
Rio Tinto
Mining and Resources
NAB (National Australia Bank)
Banking and Financial Services
Optiver
Trading and Financial Services
L'Oréal Australia and New Zealand
Retail and Consumer Goods
Queensland Government Digital Graduate Program
Government and Public Service
Herbert Smith Freehills
Legal Services
Oliver Wyman
Management Consulting
The Winslow Group
Construction and Property Services
Next, discover how upGrad can support your admission journey to Level 1 universities in Australia.
How Can upGrad Help You Study in Australia?
upGrad offers complete support to help you study in Australia with confidence. From selecting the right university to preparing documents like transcripts, CVs, and Statements of Purpose, every step is covered. You also get expert guidance on Subclass 500 visa applications and required documents.
Still unsure about the next step? Book a free one-on-one session with upGrad counsellors. Get expert help with university selection, document preparation, and financial planning tailored to your study abroad plan.
FAQs
Should I choose Level 1 Australian Universities over Universities in New Zealand?
Australia hosts over 850K international students and offers more top-100 universities and scholarships than New Zealand, which had 69,135 international students. However, Australia’s higher tuition and stricter visa rules may affect affordability. Choose based on your academic goals and budget.
Can I bring my family with me while studying in Australia?
Yes, international students with a valid Subclass 500 visa can bring eligible family members as dependents. Spouses and children must be declared in the initial visa application. Family members can also apply later under certain conditions. Schooling requirements apply for children aged 5 to 17.
Are Level 1 Australian Universities recognized worldwide?
Yes, Level 1 Australian universities like Melbourne, Sydney, and UNSW consistently rank in the QS and Times Higher Education global top 100. Their degrees are internationally accredited, and graduates are employed by leading companies worldwide, reflecting strong global academic and employer reputation scores.
What minimum exam scores should a CBSE board student achieve to apply for Level 1 Universities in Australia?
CBSE students typically need a minimum of 75% to 85% in their Class 12 exams, depending on the university and program. For instance, the University of Melbourne requires at least 75% for undergraduate courses, while the University of Sydney requires around 83%. Specific programs may have higher requirements.
Is studying in Australia expensive for international students?
Yes, studying in Australia can be costly. Average annual tuition fees are approximately AUD 31K (INR 16.8L) for undergraduates and AUD 32K (INR 17L) for postgraduates. Living expenses range from AUD 30K (INR 16L) to AUD 36K (INR 19L) per year, varying by city and lifestyle. Living expenses in cities like Sydney and Melbourne can add approximately AUD 20,000 per year (INR 10.8L).
Do Level 1 Australian Universities offer part-time degrees?
Part-time study is only permitted under exceptional circumstances, such as health issues, and requires formal approval. Some universities, like the University of Melbourne, define part-time study for international students as enrolling in less than 50 points per half-year period, subject to approval.
Can I do part-time work while studying at Level 1 universities in Australia?
Yes, international students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. During official course breaks, there are no work hour restrictions. Exceeding these limits can lead to visa cancellation. Always verify your visa conditions through the VEVO system.
What are the placement rates of Level 1 Australian Universities?
Placement rates at top Australian universities vary: University of Sydney reports 92% undergraduate and 91% postgraduate employment rates. UNSW has an 81.3% full-time employment rate within 4–6 months post-graduation. University of Queensland's undergraduate employment rate is 81%. University of Adelaide reports 88.3% for undergraduates and 93.3% for postgraduates.
Can I study at top Australian universities with a budget of INR 20 lakhs?
Studying at top Australian universities with a budget of INR 20 lakhs (approximately AUD 36,000/INR 19.5L) is challenging. Annual tuition fees at institutions like the University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and UNSW typically range from AUD 40,000 to AUD 60,000 (INR 21.7 L to INR 32.5L), depending on the program .
What's the difference between Level 1 Universities and Go8 Universities in Australia?
"Level 1" universities refer to top-tier Australian institutions recognized for academic excellence and easy visa processes. The Group of Eight (Go8) is a formal coalition of eight leading research-intensive universities: ANU, Melbourne, Sydney, UNSW, Queensland, Monash, Adelaide, and UWA. While all Go8 members are Level 1, not all Level 1 universities are part of the Go8.
Is it hard to get admission in Level 1 Universities in Australia?
Yes, admission is competitive. Most Level 1 universities require CBSE students to score 75–85% in Class 12, depending on the course. Applicants must also meet English language standards, typically IELTS 6.5–7.0. High-demand programs like medicine or law may require even stronger academic credentials.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to c...
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