Brisbane, though relatively smaller than the other big cities of Australia, such as Sydney or Melbourne, attracts international students because of high-quality education at its universities. The City of Sunshine, as it is popularly called, Brisbane has a warm and cosy atmosphere, which is yet another attractive feature for students from different parts of the world. Brisbane universities are famous for their academic brilliance, world-class faculty, and high potential for post-study career opportunities. Also, Brisbane offers a diverse culture, welcoming students from all over the world to its educational institutions.
The article below details the top 5 universities in Brisbane, Australia, their rankings per QS World University Rankings 2024, course fees, eligibility criteria, and the most popular courses among international students.
The City of Sunshine, Brisbane, is home to many top universities in Australia, most of which rank high on QS World University Rankings 2024. Listed and detailed below are at least 5 of the top Brisbane universities that are extremely popular among international students:
The University of Queensland: When choosing the finest university in Brisbane, Australia, many international students consider the University of Queensland among their top choices. One of Brisbane's best centres for academic and research excellence, this higher education institution has consistently figured in the top ranks and delivered at par with global educational standards.
Some of the most notable programs at the University of Queensland that are popular among international students are Management and Commerce, Business and Commercial Law, Occupational Therapy, Dental Studies, and Sport Science.
Different universities in Brisbane have different admission requirements for international and domestic students. The University of Queensland defines the following criteria for student eligibility for admissions:
Previous qualification relevant to the course being pursued is required for Undergraduate courses. An Indian equivalent of Australian Grade 12 is required. For Postgraduate programs, a completed Bachelor’s qualification is a must.
Some courses may require prior professional experience in a related industry.
Proof of English language proficiency test, such as IELTS, with an overall 6.5 and at least 6.0 in each band of the test
Related Source: https://study.uq.edu.au/admissions/english-language-requirements
Location | Brisbane, Australia |
Type of University | Public |
QS Ranking | 43 |
Avg Tuition Fee | AUD 51,200 (indicative annual fee for PG course) |
Popular Courses | Management and Commerce Business and Commercial Law Occupational Therapy Dental Studies Sports Science |
Intakes | Spring and Fall |
Related Source: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/programs/master-engineering-science-management-5530#fees-scholarships
Some of the popular campus facilities for students include 8 research institutions that are recognised globally, technologically advanced teaching rooms, and research libraries. In addition, there are sports facilities like an athletics track, open courts and fields, a large pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, and a tennis court. International students can also choose from various residential options on campus, such as UQ Residences Homes, Residential Colleges, and International House.
Queensland University of Technology (QUT): Another of the top universities in Brisbane, QUT focuses on practical hands-on learning with a perfect blend of theoretical principles. International students opt for the following courses at QUT the most - Occupational Health & Safety, Podiatry, Earth Sciences, and Visual Arts. The standard entry requirements for different courses at QUT are as follows: Secondary School Certificate and all official academic transcripts as proof of higher school completion (for UG courses)
For PG programs, completion of a Bachelor’s degree/Diploma in any field of study is a general prerequisite.
Prior work experience of at least 2 years in a relevant domain is preferred by the university.
Proof of English language proficiency test, such as IELTS, with an overall 6.0 on the test. Related Source: https://www.qut.edu.au/courses/graduate-certificate-in-business-and-communication#requirements
Location | Brisbane, Australia |
Type of University | Public |
QS Ranking | 189 |
Avg Tuition Fee | AUD 37,200 (indicative annual fee for full-time PG course) |
Popular Courses | Occupational Health & Safety Podiatry Earth Sciences Visual Arts |
Intakes | Spring and Fall |
Related Source: https://www.qut.edu.au/courses/master-of-architecture?international
Students can avail of a free shuttle bus service on the QUT campus in addition to many other useful facilities such as simulation centres, study pods, an LED globe, and a Science and Engineering Centre. For student recreation, the university campus offers fitness centres, arts and performance spaces, medical care facilities, and food and shop outlets. The accommodation options at QUT include private rooms, residential complexes, studio and loft apartments, and residential colleges.
Griffith University: With nearly 6 campus locations in Brisbane, Griffith University is a popular research university in Brisbane. Some of the most notable programs offered at Griffith include Paleontology, Graphic and Design Studies, and Product Design. International students can apply to the various courses at Griffith University by meeting the following standard admission criteria:
Overall, 65% in 4 academic subjects in the All India Senior School Certificate (UG courses)
Recognised Bachelor’s in a relevant field of study (PG programs)
Proof of English language proficiency test, such as IELTS, with an overall 6.5 and not less than 6.0 in each band of the test. Related Source: https://www.griffith.edu.au/study/degrees/bachelor-of-architectural-design-1492#apply
https://www.griffith.edu.au/study/degrees/master-of-architecture-5558
Location | Brisbane, Australia |
Type of University | Public |
QS Ranking | 243 |
Avg Tuition Fee | AUD 38,500 (indicative annual fee for PG course) |
Popular Courses | Paleontology Graphic and Design Studies Product Design |
Intakes | Spring and Fall |
Related Source: https://www.griffith.edu.au/study/degrees/master-of-architecture-5558
Some of the most popular campus facilities at Griffith include a library, lecture theatres, studios, and labs. Students are encouraged to participate in several sports facilities such as tennis courts, pools, recreation halls, gyms, athletic tracks, and open fields. There are several options for shopping, food, and beverages on the campus. Griffith University also makes room for international students at several homestay options and residential facilities on campus.
James Cook University (JCU): One of the older universities in Brisbane that has been in operation since 1961, James Cook University is renowned for offering student support and excellent infrastructure and research facilities. Its most notable programs include English Language, Animal and Veterinary Studies, History, and Biochemistry courses. The entry requirements for courses at JCU include the following:
For Bachelor’s level courses, clearance of a recognised Year 12 course (or Indian equivalent) is required.
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited Indian university is desirable for entry into PG courses.
Proof of English language proficiency test, such as IELTS, with at least 5.5 in the test and no band component less than 5.0.Related Source: https://www.jcu.edu.au/policy/procedures/student-services-procedures/admissions-policy-schedule-ii?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=IDP&utm_campaign=IDP
Location | Brisbane, Australia |
Type of University | Public |
QS Ranking | 415 |
Avg Tuition Fee | AUD 19,640 (indicative total fee for PG course) |
Popular Courses | English Language Animal and Veterinary Studies History Biochemistry |
Intakes | Spring and Fall |
Related Source: https://www.jcu.edu.au/courses/graduate-certificate-of-aeromedical-retrieval?international
JCU campus is globally renowned for its extensive research facilities and advanced research infrastructure, including an analytical centre, Australian Tropical Herbarium, Cyclone Testing Station, EduQuarium, eResearch Centre, and an Ideas Lab. Clubs, sports, and recreational activities are also a significant part of the vibrant student life on JCU's campus. To make international students feel comfortable in Brisbane, JCU offers homestays, short-stay options, and off-campus renting options.
Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia): The most prominent regional university in Australia, CQUniversity offers top-class education to students from different parts of the world. Dental Studies, Psychology, Performing Arts and Music, and Aerospace Engineering are some of CQUniversity's most preferred courses among international students. International students must meet the following requirements for entry into CQUniversity:
Completion of the Indian equivalent qualification of Australian Year 12 is required for UG courses
PG course admissions require completion of a Bachelor’s from a recognised Indian university
Proof of English language proficiency test, such as IELTS, with an overall of 6.5 on the test. Related Source: https://delivery-cqucontenthub.stylelabs.cloud/api/public/content/english-language-proficiency-requirements.pdf?v=4bee7cd3
Location | Brisbane, Australia |
Type of University | Public |
QS Ranking | 590 |
Avg Tuition Fee | AUD 47,160 (indicative annual fee for PG course) |
Popular Courses | Dental Studies Psychology Performing Arts and Music Aerospace Engineering |
Intakes | March, July |
Related Source: https://delivery-cqucontenthub.stylelabs.cloud/api/public/content/international-course-fees-2024.pdf?v=00c1598d
Some of the most renowned on-campus facilities at CQUniversity are a digital media lab, free Wi-Fi, a library, prayer rooms, and student kitchens. In their leisure time, students can relax at the multiple restaurants and cafes and student lounge areas with TV, microwave, and refrigerator facilities. Shared housing, guest houses, private rentals, and hostels are popular accommodation facilities provided at the CQUniversity campus in Brisbane.
1. How many universities are in Brisbane, Australia?
Brisbane has 2 main universities - the University of Queensland and the Queensland University of Technology. However, the city is also home to at least 10 campus locations of other Australian universities, including CQUniversity, Griffith University, and more.
2. Which universities are the best for international students in Brisbane, Australia?
The top universities preferred by international students in Brisbane are:
The University of Queensland
Queensland University of Technology
Griffith University
James Cook University
Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia)
3. How much does it cost to study in Brisbane, Australia?
The average fee structure for each course at every Brisbane university is likely to vary. However, for reference purposes, the average cost of studying at a top university in Brisbane is estimated at AUD 47,160 (indicative annual fee for a PG course at a university in the city).
Related Source: https://delivery-cqucontenthub.stylelabs.cloud/api/public/content/international-course-fees-2024.pdf?v=00c1598d
4. What are the benefits of studying in Brisbane?
International students widely prefer Brisbane for its affordable education, cost of living, warm and sunny environment, and diverse culture acceptance.
5. What jobs are available easily after studying at a university in Brisbane?
Some of the most-bagged job roles include Market Research Analyst, Physiotherapist, Merchandiser, and Teacher.
6. How is life in Brisbane for international students?
Brisbane is generally regarded among the most affordable Australian universities to study and live in and is therefore preferred mostly by international students in Australia. Also, the city is very friendly and warm and accepts students of diverse backgrounds from all over the world.
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