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Looking for the top universities in Australia? The latest Australia university ranking by QS highlights why the country remains one of the best places to study. Leading the list are the University of Melbourne, University of New South Wales, and University of Sydney — all ranked among the top 30 universities in the world.
These institutions stand out for their world-class teaching, innovative research, and strong global connections. Whether you’re after a vibrant student experience, career opportunities, or internationally recognised degrees, Australia’s best universities offer everything you need to succeed.
#1. The University Of Melbourne
Established in 1853, the University of Melbourne is Australia’s second-oldest university and a leader in research and teaching. It consistently ranks as the top university in Australia.
Here are key statistics about the University of Melbourne:
| Total student population | 48,000 |
| % of international students | 51% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 23:1 |
Why study at the University of Melbourne?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, the University of Melbourne ranks #19 globally. It is also part of the Group of Eight (Go8) Australian universities.
- The University of Melbourne is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum and depth of research.
- It performs exceptionally well in Sports-related subjects, Legal Studies and Life Sciences and Medicine, all ranking in the Top 20 of the QS World Ranking by Subjects.
- International students flock to the university for its vibrant campus life, located in the heart of Melbourne, consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Business and Management
- Biomedicine
- Design
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Psychology
- Science
Read all about our Complete Guide to the University of Melbourne:
#2. The University Of New South Wales (UNSW)
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is a globally recognised institution based in Sydney. Founded in 1949, it has a strong focus on scientific, technological, and professional disciplines.
Here are key statistics about UNSW:
| Total student population | 38,000 |
| % of international students | 49% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 30:1 |
Why study at UNSW?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, UNSW ranks #20 globally.
- UNSW is one of the best universities in Australia for employability, ranking first in the country for employment outcomes according to the QS Rankings. This highlights its strong industry connections and the success of its graduates.
- UNSW is particularly strong in Engineering and Technology, Legal Studies, Marketing, Architecture as well as Accounting and Finance – all placing in the Top 30 of the QS World Ranking by Subjects.
- UNSW is also a founding member of the Go8 and the international ‘Universitas 21’ network (a global network of 29 leading, research-intensive universities from over 18 countries).
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Mineral & Mining Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Law and Legal Studies
- Accounting & Finance
- Architecture / Built Environment
- Civil & Structural Engineering
- Business & Management
Read all about our Complete Guide to the University of New South Wales (UNSW):
#3. University Of Sydney
The University of Sydney, established in 1850, is Australia’s first university. It is known for its historic neo-gothic campus, comprehensive range of disciplines, and leading-edge research.
Here are key statistics about the University of Sydney:
| Total student population | 50,000 |
| % of international students | 62% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 15:1 |
Why study at the University of Sydney?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, the University of Sydney ranks #25 globally. It is a member of the Go8 universities.
- It is also well-known for its Sports-related subjects ranking at #3 in the world based on QS, and four other subjects ranked in the world’s Top 20. You will find extensive sports facilities on the campus, such as an aquatic centre, indoor rock climbing, tennis courts and more.
- It is one of Australia’s six “sandstone universities,” characterised by its iconic, historic sandstone buildings.
- The university has research stations on the Great Barrier Reef (One Tree Island), in regional New South Wales (IA Watson Grains Research Centre), and near Canberra (Molonglo Observatory).
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Sports Science
- Physiotherapy
- Nursing
- Pharmacy & Pharmacology
- Legal Studies
- Veterinary Science
Read all about our Complete Guide to the University of Sydney:
#4. Australian National University (ANU)
Located in the nation’s capital, the Australian National University (ANU) was founded in 1946. It was created by the nation for the nation, with a unique mission to focus on research and postgraduate training of national importance.
Here are key statistics about ANU:
| Total student population | 17,000 |
| % of international students | 42% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 10:1 |
Why study at ANU?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, the Australian National University ranks #32 globally.
- ANU is one of the world’s leading research universities. Its location in Canberra provides unparalleled access to government and national institutions, making it a world-leader in fields like political science, international relations, and public policy.
- As a Go8 member, its research addresses major global challenges, including climate change, energy, and biodiversity.
- ANU is also known for its unique, research-led degrees, such as the Bachelor of Philosophy (PhB), which offers high-achieving undergraduate students the chance to engage in intensive research projects and one-to-one mentoring with leading academics (Ranked #8 on QS for Philosophy subject)
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Social Policy
- Anthropology
- Archeology
- Geo-Science
Read all about our Complete Guide to the Australian National University (ANU):
#5. Monash University
Monash University is Australia’s largest university and a member of the prestigious Go8. Founded in 1958, it is a modern, global, and research-intensive university with a presence on four continents.
Here are key statistics about Monash University:
| Total student population | 86,000 |
| % of international students | 40% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 20:1 |
Why study at Monash University?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, Monash University ranks #36 globally.
- Monash is a true global university, with four major campuses in Australia, a campus in Malaysia, and centres in Italy, India, and China. This international footprint provides students with extensive opportunities for global study and collaboration.
- Monash announced that it plans to build its largest-ever international campus in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, costing about AUD 1 billion (or MYR 2.8 billion) to be ready by 2032. This marks the growing popularity of the institution among international students.
- The university is a leader in health sciences. Its Pharmacy and Pharmacology subject is ranked #4 in the world on QS. Monash is also known for its flexibility, offering over 140 innovative double-degree options, allowing students to combine passions, such as Engineering and Arts, or Law and Biomedical Science.
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Pharmacy & Pharmacology
- Education
- Nursing
- Engineering (Mineral & Mining)
- Material Sciences
Read all about our Complete Guide to Monash University:
#6. The University of Queensland (UQ)
The University of Queensland (UQ) is one of Australia’s premier research and teaching institutions. Located in Brisbane, it is renowned for its beautiful campus, comprehensive subject offerings, and significant research contributions.
Here are key statistics about UQ:
| Total student population | 42,000 |
| % of international students | 55% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 12:1 |
Why study at the University of Queensland?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, the University of Queensland ranks #42 globally.
- UQ is also one of only 3 Australian members of the global Universitas 21 and a founding member of the Go8 universities.
- Set along the Brisbane River, students studying Environmental Science gain access to unique research opportunities at its off-site locations, such as the Heron Island Research Station on the Great Barrier Reef.
- UQ is also one of the top universities in Australia and home to several world-leading research institutes, including the Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the Queensland Brain Institute, and the Sustainable Minerals Institute.
- The university excels in a wide range of fields, particularly in Life Sciences & Medicine, Environmental Sciences and Agriculture. Its specific research strengths include Human Movement and Sports Science (ranked #2 globally on QS).
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Sports Science
- Engineering (Petroleum)
- Environmental Sciences
- Agriculture & Forestry
- Pharmacy & Pharmacology
- Hospitality Management
Read all about our Complete Guide to the University of Queensland:
#7. The University of Western Australia (UWA)
Founded in 1911, the University of Western Australia (UWA) is the oldest university in its state and a member of the Go8. It is known for its stunning sandstone campus on the banks of the Swan River in Perth.
Here are key statistics about UWA:
| Total student population | 20,000 |
| % of international students | 50% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 15:1 |
Why study at the University of Western Australia?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, the University of Western Australia ranks #77 globally.
- Perth is one of the most livable and affordable cities in Australia, located just five hours by flight from Malaysia.
- UWA is a member of the prestigious Go8 and is one of only two Australian members of the Worldwide Universities Network, a partnership of 18 research-led universities.
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Engineering (Mineral & Mining)
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Sports Science
- Earth and Marine Sciences
- Engineering (Civil & Structural)
- Dentistry
Read all about our Complete Guide to the University of Western Australia:
#8. Adelaide University
With a rich history, Adelaide University has been a beacon of learning and innovation in South Australia since 1874. In 2024, the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia announced their merger to form Adelaide University, which opened in 2026.
Here are key statistics about Adelaide University:
| Total student population | 60,000 |
| % of international students | 35% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 12:1 |
Why study at Adelaide University?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, Adelaide University ranks #82 globally.
- It is a member of the Go8, recognised for its commitment to research excellence.
- The campus is conveniently situated in the heart of the city of Adelaide, offering students easy access to both academic facilities and urban amenities.
- Only 15 Nobel Prizes have been awarded in Australia, and out of these, 5 were awarded to University of Adelaide professors.
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Business & Accounting
- Legal Studies
- Earth and Marine Sciences
- Mathematics & Science
Read all about our Complete Guide to the University of Adelaide and the Complete Guide to the University of South Australia:
#9. The University Of Technology Sydney (UTS)
The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is one of the 10 top universities in Australia with a dynamic campus right in the heart of Sydney’s tech and creative precinct. It is known for its strong focus on technology and industry collaboration.
Here are key statistics about UTS:
| Total student population | 27,000 |
| % of international students | 33% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 16:1 |
Why study at Adelaide University?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, the University of Technology Sydney ranks #96 globally.
- UTS is globally recognised as Australia’s #1 ‘Young University’ (under 50 years old) by QS, reflecting its rapid rise and modern approach to education.
- It is known for its practical, career-focused education and state-of-the-art facilities, including the iconic Frank Gehry-designed “paper bag” building, which houses its business school.
- UTS is particularly strong in practical subjects like Nursing, Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Architecture and Art and Design.
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Nursing
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Sports Science
- Electrical & Electronics Engineering
- Legal Studies
- Architecture
- Art & Design
Read all about our Complete Guide to the University of Technology Sydney:
#10. The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)
RMIT University is a global university of technology, design, and enterprise. Originally founded in 1887 as a working men’s college, it has grown into one of Australia’s largest institutions, with a 5-Star QS rating.
Here are key statistics about RMIT:
| Total student population | 33,000 |
| % of international students | 30% |
| Student-to-teacher-ratio | 20:1 |
Why study at Adelaide University?
- According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, RMIT University ranks #125 globally.
- RMIT’s courses are co-designed with industry leaders to ensure students graduate with the skills employers need.
- The university is a world leader in Architecture (rank #21 on QS by Subject). It also excels in Art & Design, Communication and Media Studies, and Marketing.
- RMIT has an overseas presence in Vietnam and a research hub in Spain, reinforcing its global outlook.
Popular Courses For International Students:
- Art & Design
- Architecture
- Communications & Media
- Marketing
- Civil Engineering
Read all about our Complete Guide to RMIT University:
Which Of These 10 Top Universities In Australia Is For You?
Need some guidance on how to study in Australia? Come say hello to our friendly study abroad consultants! We’ll make sure you’re well-equipped to select your ideal course from among the top universities in Australia!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the ‘Group of Eight’ (Go8)?
The Group of Eight (Go8) is a coalition of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities. They are consistently the highest-ranked Australian universities in global assessments. The Go8 members featured in this list are the University of Melbourne, UNSW, UTS, ANU, Monash University, UQ, UWA, and Adelaide University.
2. How are the QS World University Rankings calculated?
The QS rankings are based on several key indicators. The most heavily weighted are Academic Reputation (based on a global survey of academics) and Employer Reputation (based on a global survey of employers). Other factors include Citations per Faculty (a measure of research impact), Faculty/Student Ratio, and internationalisation metrics (proportion of international faculty and students).
3. Are these universities expensive for international students?
Tuition fees vary significantly between universities and courses. As these are top-ranked, prestigious universities, their fees for international students are among the highest in Australia. Fees can range from AUD $35,000 to over AUD $50,000 per year, with courses like Medicine and Engineering at the higher end. However, all universities offer a wide range of scholarships for international students.
4. What is the difference between a traditional university (like Melbourne) and a technology university (like UTS or RMIT)?
While all are world-class, their focus differs. Traditional universities (often the Go8 members) typically have a strong emphasis on academic theory and ‘pure’ research. Technology-focused universities, like UTS and RMIT (which are part of the Australian Technology Network), often emphasise ‘applied’ research, strong industry partnerships, practical skill development, and work-integrated learning.
About the Author:
Ken Hoong is the co-founder of Uni Enrol and a contributing writer. Drawing on his close work with Uni Enrol’s counsellors, he brings keen insight into Malaysia’s evolving private higher education landscape and the shifting preferences of students in learning and career choices.
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