Alongside these benefits, Australia’s renowned universities and high quality of life make it a strong destination of choice for overseas studies. However, before committing to studying in Australia, it is essential to consider factors such as the university’s location, faculty quality, curriculum, available scholarships and cost of education, and placement programs.

We highlight Australian universities recognized by two prestigious lists – Times Higher Education’s (THE) World University Rankings 2024 and Australia Financial Review (AFR)’s Best Universities Ranking 2023. Prospective international students considering studying in Australia will find these seven top-ranked universities to be excellent options.

The Group of Eight

(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)

No discussion of top-ranked Australian universities is complete without mentioning the Group of Eight (Go8). These research-intensive universities consistently rank at or near the top of most post-secondary education institution rankings. They regularly appear in the world’s top 150, according to lists from QS World University Rankings to THE’s World University Rankings. Domestically, many Go8 universities score well on AFR’s Best Universities Ranking. In 2022, Group of Eight universities educated 425,000 students, representing over 25% of all higher education students in Australia. That same year, one in three international students in Australia chose a Go8 university, underscoring the prestige and appeal of these institutions.

Top Seven Universities in Australia

1. The University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is a public research university renowned for its practical teaching methodology and strong emphasis on research, supported by an excellent faculty. According to the QS World Rankings 2024, it is ranked 14th globally.2. The University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney
Located in Kensington, Sydney, UNSW is best known for its STEM courses and research initiatives. Sydney, known for being one of the most livable and safest cities, hosts multiple UNSW campuses. The university is ranked 19th in the QS World Rankings 2024 and 27th in the QS World Graduate Employability Rankings 2020.3. The University of Sydney
Situated in Camperdown, the University of Sydney offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including liberal studies, professional, and specialist degrees. The university enhances learning with guest lectures from top industry experts. It is ranked 19th in the QS World Rankings 2024.

4. Australian National University (ANU)
Located in Canberra, ANU offers flexible undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including double degrees in various fields such as science, technology, economics, and international relations. ANU is ranked 34th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2024 and is the most preferred international university in Australia, according to the Times Higher Education report.

5. Monash University
Australia’s largest university, Monash, has its main campus in Clayton, Melbourne, and seven other campuses, including one in Malaysia. Monash offers a global education experience through study-abroad programs and cultural diversity. It is ranked 42nd in the QS World University Rankings 2024.

6. The University of Queensland
Based in Brisbane, the University of Queensland is one of Australia’s leading research and teaching institutions. It has won the most national teaching awards of any Australian university and offers multidisciplinary courses, allowing students to tailor their education. It is ranked 34th in the QS World University Rankings 2024.

7. The University of Western Australia (UWA)
UWA’s main campus is in Perth, the world’s 12th most livable city. The university focuses on preparing students for their careers through partnerships with industry, real-world challenges, internships, and volunteering opportunities. UWA is ranked 72nd globally, ensuring its students graduate career-ready.

Australian universities, particularly those in the Group of Eight, offer exceptional education opportunities, strong faculty support, and excellent career prospects, making them top choices for students from around the world.

Saif Iqbal, Vice President, ApplyBoard