The Complete Guide To The University Of Sydney

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

The University of Sydney is one of the most prestigious universities in Australia. Founded way back in 1850, it was the first tertiary institution in the country. The university was known for its emphasis on religious tolerance and admitting students based on academic merit. Over the years, it has not only become a household name in the higher education scene in Australia but has also contributed significantly to the growth of Sydney and New South Wales.

Total Student Population	57,000 students
Percentage of International Students	51%
Teaching Faculty to Student Ratio	1:23
Graduate Employability Rate	Ranked #1 in Australia by QS (2022)

1.2 University of Sydney Rankings 2025

According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings, it proudly secured #18 spot globally, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for students and academics worldwide! Many of its courses are also ranked in the Top 50 QS Subjects Ranking:

QS Subject Category	Ranking For 2025
Sports-Related Subjects	#3
Law and Legal Studies	#18
Pharmacy and Pharmacology	#19
Anatomy and Physiology	#20
Nursing	#20
Veterinary Science	#21
Social Policy and Administration	#22
Engineering – Mineral and Mining	#23
Life Sciences and Medicine	#24
Education and Training	#26
Medicine	#27
Communication and Media Studies	#28
Engineering – Civil and Structural	#28
Accounting and Finance	#29
Architecture and Built Environment	#30
Arts and Humanities	#35
Computer Science and Information Systems	#36
Mathematics	#38
Social Sciences and Management	#38
Marketing	#39
Psychology	#39
Sociology	#39
Politics	#42
Engineering – Electrical and Electronic	#44
Economics and Econometrics	#49

2. Student Life & Living Cost

2.1 University of Sydney Campuses

The University of Sydney has a whopping 10 campuses all around New South Wales (more if you count the teaching hospitals that they also have), each serving a faculty. However, some of the 10 campuses are located within the compounds of the main campus, which is the Camperdown/Darlington campus. 

The University itself has broken them down separately, however, and you will see why as you continue on this section!

1. Camperdown/Darlington Campus

Key Highlights

• University of Sydney’s biggest campus.
• Houses 7 faculties.
• Also home to the University of Sydney’s key research centres and institutes.

How To Get Around?
🗺️A 10-minute drive away from Sydney CBD.

• The nearest train station is 10 minutes away (Redfern Station).
• Bus stops are available at the campus entrance.

2. Mallet Street Campus

Key Highlights

• Home to the Brain and Mind Centre, a world-leading research facility focusing on child development, youth mental health and brain ageing.
• Also home to the National Health and Medical Research Council’s (NHMRC) Clinical Trials Centre, where research revolving around public health on a national level is conducted.
• This campus focuses on Brain and Mind postgraduate students.

How To Get Around?
🗺️A short walk from the Camperdown/Darlington campus.

• The nearest train station is a 15-minute walk away from campus.
• The nearest bus station is a few hundred metres away.

3. Surry Hills Campus

Key Highlights

• Houses the Sydney Dental School, the Dentistry Library, teaching, seminar and recreational facilities.
• Australia’s first dental school, provided education and training in dentistry for more than 100 years.
• Also houses the extensive clinical facilities of the Sydney Dental Hospital.
• Students gain clinical experience in the Sydney Dental Hospital.

How to Get Around?
🗺️Located in the main Camperdown/Darlington Campus.

• The nearest train station is 10 minutes away.

4. Sydney College of the Arts

Key Highlights

• Sydney’s first tertiary art school.
• Campus is located within the Camperdown/Darlington campus.
• Leaders in studio-based visual arts practice & education.

How to Get Around?
🗺️Located in the main Camperdown/Darlington Campus.

• The nearest train station is 10 minutes away (Redfern Station).
• Bus stops are available at the campus entrance.

5. Sydney Medical School

Key Highlights

• The medical school is scattered throughout New South Wales, but the main campus is located in the Camperdown/Darlington campus.
• Schools serve as teaching hospitals for students.

How to Get Around?
🗺️Located in the main Camperdown/Darlington Campus.

• The nearest train station from the main campus is 10 minutes away (Redfern Station).
• Bus stops are available at the campus entrance.

6. CBD Campus

Key Highlights

• Houses the Business School and Law School.
• The campus is purpose-built to simulate a business workplace environment.

How to Get Around?
🗺️Located a short walk from the Sydney CBD

• It is a short walk from the nearest train station (St. James Station).
• Can be accessed by the many buses travelling to the Sydney CBD.

7. Camden Campus

Key Highlights

• Veterinary science and agriculture classes are conducted here.
• Part of South Western Sydney’s suburb growth area.
• Has an extensive network of farms and research units.

How To Get Around?
🗺️A 30-minute bus ride away from Campbelltown.

• The nearest train station is in Campbelltown.
• A free shuttle bus to campus is available.

8. Sydney Conservatorium of Music

Key Highlights

• One of the world-leading music schools.
• Located close to the Sydney Opera House.
• Boasts 5 concert halls, recording studios, and performance spaces with the latest acoustic technology.

How to Get Around?
🗺️A short walk from the Sydney CBD.

• A 10-minute walk from the nearest train and bus station (Circular Quay station).

9. Westmead Campus

Key Highlights

• The centre of transformational health services, research, and education in Western Sydney.
• Houses the Faculty of Medicine and Health, as well as the Faculty of Education.
• Home to 2,000 students who are conducting study, research or clinical placements at Westmead Hospital.

How to Get Around?
🗺️A 15-minute walk from Westmead town centre.

• The nearest train station is 10 minutes away (Westmead Station).
• Buses can be accessed from the entrance of the Westmead campus.

10. One Tree Island Research Station

Key Highlights

• The world’s only research station licensed to facilitate teaching and research on the Great Barrier Reef.
• Research station is overseen by the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Science.
• Has helped facilitate breakthroughs in climate change, geology and marine observation!

How to Get Around?

• You can only get to the research station via advanced booking and for research purposes.

2.2 Learning Resources

If you’re thinking of studying at the University of Sydney, you’ll be happy to know that there are a bunch of fantastic learning and research facilities to help you make the most out of your time here.

2.3 Recreational Facilities

The University of Sydney has centralised recreational facilities that are under the umbrella of Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness, and all facilities cater to ensure that students lead a balanced lifestyle.

2.4 Student Activities

The University of Sydney has over 250 clubs and societies, which are governed by the University of Sydney Union (USU). These clubs cater to a range of interests and hobbies, making it easy for students to find activities to do.

2.5 Student Services 

The University of Sydney will always be a step ahead with its student services, to ensure that every student is properly attended to during their time there: 

• Health Services
• Counselling and Psychological Services
• Academic Skills Unit
• Careers and Employability
• Disability Support
• Indigenous Student Support
• Financial Aid

2.6 University of Sydney Student Accommodation and Cost

One of the best things about studying at the University of Sydney is that finding accommodation is a breeze, even with its numerous campuses! 

Most of the university’s on-campus accommodations are centred around the Camperdown/Darlington campus, which also houses the Mallet Street, Sydney College of the Arts, Sydney Medical School, and Surry Hills campuses.

Camperdown/Darlington, Mallet Street, Sydney College of the Arts, Sydney Medical School and Surry Hills Campuses

On-campus	Off-campus
Queen Mary Building (from AUD 347/week)	Private Rentals (from AUD 650/week) Nearby towns – Newtown, Redfern, Glebe
Abercrombie (from AUD 447/week)
The Regiment (from AUD 366/week)
Darlington House (from AUD 292/week)

Camden

On-campus	Off-campus
Nepean Lodge (from AUD 188/week)	Private Rentals (from AUD 565/week) Nearby towns – Camden, Cobbitty, Ellis Lane, Grasmere
Nepean Hall (from AUD 163/week)

133 Castlereagh St, CBD

On-campus	Off-campus
–	Nearby towns – Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Redfern, Haymarket, Ultimo, Glebe

Sydney Conservatorium of Music

On-campus	Off-campus
–	Nearby towns – Potts Point, Elizabeth Bay, Darlinghurst, Haymarket

Westmead

On-campus	Off-campus
–	Nearby towns – Parramatta, Northmead, Toongabbie, Guildford, Auburn

Cost of Living in New South Wales

Students usually spend around AUD 160 – 430 per week on general living expenses, such as groceries, transport, textbooks, and entertainment. Take note, though. These are rough estimates, as actual costs can vary widely based on individual spending habits.

3. Courses, Fees & Scholarships

3.1 Courses You Can Study At The University of Sydney

Architecture, Design, & Planning	Architecture, Design, Building Design, Urban Planning
Arts & Social Sciences	Media & Communications, Economics, Education, Visual Arts, Sociology
Business	Accounting, Business Analytics, Finance, International Business, Marketing
Education & Social Work	Early Childhood Education, Primary, Secondary, Professional Education, Human & Community Services
Engineering & Computer Science	Advanced Computing, Biomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering
Law	Law
Medicine & Health	Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy
Music	Classical Performance, Music Education, Music Major, Musicology, Vocal & Opera Studies
Science	Agriculture & Food, Animal Health, Biology, Chemistry, Psychology

Didn’t spot the major of your choice in the table above? Don’t fret! These are just some of the many majors that are being offered at the University of Sydney, and the best way to find out about what is offered is by speaking with an education consultant!

3.2 Course Fees At The University Of Sydney

We have also saved you the hassle and compiled the full list of the university’s detailed course fees into one article below. Check it out and share it!

Coming Soon!

3.3 University Of Sydney Scholarships

These are some of the scholarships offered by the University of Sydney to international students. Check out the full list here.

Coming Soon!

3.4 Popular Courses At The University Of Sydney

The University of Sydney offers a vast array of highly regarded courses across various disciplines. Some of the popular areas of study include:

Law Studies

Sydney Law School has been an incredible institution for legal education since it was founded in 1855. It has gained recognition for its excellence, with the University of Sydney’s Law School securing the #16 spot in the 2022 QS World Subject Rankings for Law. 

The faculty is respected as a pillar of legal academia and practice, even sharing a network alongside other esteemed institutions like Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge, Peking, and Tsinghua.

What makes Sydney Law School unique is its innovative curriculum, where students must study both public and international law. Moreover, Sydney Law School’s elective program offers a wide range of advanced learning units! The electives cover various specializations, allowing students to gain expertise in niche areas of law.

The school’s location in Sydney, a vibrant and economically significant city, means that students have unparalleled opportunities for placements and recruitment, as most multinational law firms either have their headquarters here or possess a significant presence.

For Malaysian students, the Legal Profession Qualifying Board also recognises the Law programme from the University of Sydney, though you will have to sit for your CLP examinations to be able to practice.

Medicine Courses

The medical programme offered by the University of Sydney is designed to provide a highly practical and hands-on approach to learning beyond theoretical knowledge. You’ll get the opportunity to gain real-world experience right from the start, within the first two years, which will lay a strong foundation for your clinical understanding.

With facilities spread across New South Wales, you’ll have access to some of the most comprehensive learning environments in Australia. The program includes clinical placements in prestigious teaching hospitals, which means you’ll get the chance to engage in medical practice in diverse settings, be it urban, regional, or even remote areas.

What’s more, another highlight of the university’s medical programme is a 14-week research project in Year 3, where you’ll get to work closely with leading researchers and tap into expansive networks and institutes. When students reach their 4th year, they will step into a unique pre-internship stage, which acts as a full clinical immersion and enhances readiness for postgraduate training.

Upon graduation, you will not only be able to practice in Australia, but also at home in Malaysia, as the programmes are recognised by the Malaysian Medical Council.

Civil Engineering

Students have the opportunity to work with some of the most advanced facilities available, like the Immersive Learning Lab. This lab uses virtual reality to simulate different environments, giving students a chance to experience in-the-field work from the comfort of campus. The programme also boasts access to the MTS 20 Meganewton, the largest high-capacity materials testing machine in the Southern Hemisphere.

To make sure graduates are ready for a future shaped by the digital age, comprehensive foundation studies in data and computation are included in the engineering degree. To top it all off,  students will undertake the award-winning Professional Engagement Programme, which gives students a chance to explore the engineering profession through self-reflective learning and a six-week internship.

Graduates also walk away with high-caliber, globally acknowledged qualifications, fully accredited by Engineers Australia and internationally recognized through the Washington Accord of the International Engineering Alliance! Malaysian students can be accredited under the Malaysian Board of Engineers via the Sydney Accord.  

Advanced Computing Subjects

In Australia’s progressive educational landscape, the University of Sydney’s Advanced Computing course stands out. It offers a flexible structure that allows students to pursue a second major alongside their core computing subjects.

For budding entrepreneurs, the university’s Advanced Computing program offers something thrilling – the chance to engage in Incubate, a startup accelerator program that provides a supportive platform for students to transform innovative ideas into tangible ventures. With mentorship, seed funding, and a network of peers who share a passion for innovation, students can confidently dive into the startup ecosystem.

In the final year, Advanced Computing students have the opportunity to partner with over 1,200 industry associates in engineering, project management, and computer science. This immersive experience allows for the practical application of knowledge and valuable networking for future career opportunities. Graduates also earn a qualification accredited by the Australian Computer Society.

Accounting Studies

Ranked among Australia’s top five institutions for Accounting and Finance, the University of Sydney empowers graduates with a competitive edge in the global marketplace. Completing the programme qualifies students for certifications with CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ), and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Malaysian students can have mobility via the ACCA accreditation. 

At the CBD campus, the University of Sydney offers an innovative learning experience mirroring the corporate sector. Meticulously designed classrooms and spaces create a professional setting beyond traditional setups, facilitating a seamless transition from academic theory to business practice.

Business and accounting students at the University of Sydney benefit from pilot learning spaces prioritizing active, student-centered learning. Through adaptable classroom setups, students are empowered to create, communicate, and forge connections, shaping individuals who are not only job-ready but also eager to redefine the industry with innovative approaches and real-world readiness.

3.5 Industry Partners 

The University of Sydney, over the years, has been privileged to work alongside big names to give students the best facilities, as well as opportunities to conduct research or industry projects. Here are some of the brands that the university had the opportunity to work with.

3.6 University Partners

The University of Sydney also offers a unique opportunity for students to complete their degree abroad with partner universities in neighbouring countries, and Malaysian students can rejoice as there are partner universities at home that allow articulation to the University: 

• International Medical University (IMU)
• Sunway University
• Taylor’s University

4. Entry Requirements & Intake Dates

4.1 University of Sydney Entry Requirements 2025

Minimum entry requirements for Foundation:

• SPM:  5 credits
• IGCSE: B in 4 academic subjects.

Minimum entry requirements for Degree:

• UEC: B3
• STPM: BCCC
• A-Level: BBC
• SACE / WACE : ATAR 70
• IB Diploma: 24 points
• Foundation: Completion of Foundation
• Diploma: Completion of Diploma

Minimum language proficiency requirements (IELTS):

• Foundation: 5.0 overall
• HAPP: 6.0 overall
• Undergraduate: 6.5 overall
• Postgraduate: 6.5 overall

Some courses may require you to earn higher entry requirements and additional qualifications.

4.2 University of Sydney Intake Periods For 2025

• Foundation: January, April, July, September, October
• Diploma: February, August
• Degree: February, August
• Postgraduate: February, August

Please note that the intake periods may vary depending on the courses. For specific intake periods and dates, click here (Coming Soon!).

4.3 Admission Process For Studying In Australia

While you are here, you may find these guides helpful to further your knowledge of universities in Australia and prepare yourself better for your study abroad journey: 

• Your Essential Study In Australia Guide For Malaysian Students
• Get A Study Abroad Consultant Early To Avoid 7 Big Mistakes 
• Top 10 Benefits Of Engaging A Higher Education Consultant

5. Student Testimonials and Alumni

While there were too many famous names (Prime Ministers of Australia, Olympic Medalists…) that fill up the list of alumni of the University of Sydney to ask for a testimonial from, here is a video with an international outlook on what you can expect when it comes to life studying here. 

Hear it from international students!

6. Conclusion

Come and explore the incredible world of education at the University of Sydney! Here, academic brilliance, groundbreaking research, and global influence all come together. You’ll be part of a vibrant community that nurtures innovation and creativity, equipping you with the skills to excel in your chosen field!

SEE OTHER UNI GUIDES

We took the liberty to compile all our University Guides and Course Fees Guides so you don’t have to go anywhere else!

And if you’re still not sure what to study, we have many Course Guide articles that will shed more light on the subject matter. Share with your friends!

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