SI-AUS-Visa_Workshop_Mobile_Banner

The Top Universities in Sydney for International Students

Posted 16 November 2023 Australian University Guide Study in Australia

Sydney, the largest city in Australia, attracts international students worldwide with its thriving economy, pleasant weather, and fantastic employability opportunities. Universities in Sydney cater to a diverse range of specializations, from arts to business. These institutions also offer numerous post-study avenues, empowering students to attain self-independence and proficiency in their chosen fields.

Beyond academic and professional pursuits, students can immerse themselves in many recreational activities. Whether cycling or climbing the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, surfing or observing the mesmerizing Icebergs at Bondi, or exploring breathtaking views from Watsons Bay, Sydney provides a rich tapestry of experiences.

Learn more about why you should consider studying at a university in Sydney below. If you would like to apply to study in Australia, contact SI-Australia for a free consultation.

studying in sydney

Why Study in Sydney?

Studying in Australia allows you to receive globally recognised degrees and improve your career prospects. Here are some more reasons to consider Sydney universities:

1. Ranked Globally

Most universities are ranked globally due to their class infrastructure, highly experienced faculty members, and fantastic career scope. 

2. Wide Range of Courses

The universities in Sydney offer unique educational programs in arts, science, business, medicine, architecture, and law. These courses are available in different specialisations and degrees, such as associate degree, postgraduate diploma, bachelor’s, certificate course, master's, and doctorate.

3. Highly Structured Curriculum

The educational institutions in Sydney pay special attention to international students, as the curriculum is designed to meet students' educational needs worldwide.

4. Different Types of Scholarships Offered

Scholarships and financial grants are other unique reasons international students prefer to study in Australia. More than $300 million is invested in students, which makes its education more exceptional. 

5. Better Living Lifestyle

If you are thinking about the nightlife of Sydney, it is outstanding. The place is known for its unique lifestyle, events, nightlife, theme parks, cuisine, and more. 

Top Universities in Sydney

Since Sydney is known for its academic excellence, students can choose among the top universities. These universities excel in learning and teaching, courses, campus life, accommodation, and placement facilities. 

University of Sydney

The University of Sydney (USYD), also known as Sydney University, is a public research university founded in 1850 in Sydney, Australia. It is Australia's oldest university and one of its six sandstone universities. Go8, APRU, ASAIHL, ACU, and CEMS are affiliated with the university. The main campus is extended across the inner-city suburbs of Camperdown and Darlington, offering facilities for lifestyle experience and research.

Accommodation facilities are available both on and off campus, where students can explore the great outdoors while living and learning. Student residences are available in Camperdown Darlington, and Camden offers a supportive community that fosters academic and personal growth. 

University of Sydney Highlights

University Type

Public

Established

1850

QS University Ranking 2024

19th

Acceptance rate

30%

Courses offered

Bachelors, Master’s, MBA, and Doctorate

Admission intake

Fall and Spring

Annual course fees

  • Undergraduate - $38,492
  • Masters - $51,323
  • MBA - $67,000
  • PhD - $18,000

Entry requirements

IELTS (6.5 - 7.5) /TOEFL (90-100) /PTE (50-69)

University of New South Wales (UNSW)

The University of New South Wales is a public research university established in 1830 and ranks 2nd in Australia and 27th in the world for Graduate Employability. It is placed 19th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2024, with an acceptance rate of 30%. UNSW aims to provide cutting-edge research, teaching, and innovation, focusing uniquely on the scientific, technological, and professional disciplines. 

The university has three campuses: UNSW Sydney Kensington, UNSW Art and Design in Paddington, and UNSW Canberra at the Australian Defense Force Academy. Students are also offered on and off-campus accommodations with the Internet, laundry, common rooms, parking, library, and fitness and aquatic centres.

University of New South Wales (UNSW) Highlights

University type

Public

Established 

1830

QS World University Ranking 2024

19th

Acceptance rate

30%

Courses offered

Bachelors, Master’s, MBA, and Doctorate

Admission intake

Fall and Spring

Annual course fees

  • Undergraduate - $16,000
  • Masters - $49,490
  • MBA - $57,000
  • PhD - $20,000

Entry requirements

IELTS (6.5 - 7.5) /TOEFL (90-100) /PTE (50-69)

University of Technology, Sydney

The University of Technology is a public research university founded in 1988. It is a founding member of the Australian Technology Network (ATN) and is a member of the Universities Australia and Worldwide Universities Network. According to the 2024 QS Ranking, the university ranks 9th in Australia and 90th worldwide. UTS provides 130 undergraduates and 210 postgraduate courses and is home to 45 research centres. The course curriculum is designed by industry partners, ensuring students are prepared to offer practical solutions to present and future problems. 

The campus has computer labs, a student centre, a higher education language and presentation support centre, student lounges, a fitness centre, health services, a library, and prayer rooms. UTS Housing offers affordable accommodation options with a wide range of equipment. Hence, with a total enrollment of 44,000 students, UTS is considered one of the largest universities in Australia.

University of Technology, Sydney Highlights

University type

Public

Established

1988

QS World University Ranking 2024

90th

Acceptance rate

30%

Courses offered

Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBA, and PhD

Admission intake

Fall and Spring

Annual course fees

  • Undergraduate - $24,000
  • Master’s - $56,821
  • MBA - $45,824
  • PhD -$18,000

Entry requirements

IELTS (6.5 - 7.5) /TOEFL (90-100) /PTE (50-69)

Macquarie University

Founded in 1964 in Sydney, Macquarie University aims to serve and engage students, staff and community through transformative learning and life experiences. TEQSA accredits the university and is rated a five-star in the respected QS Stars rating system for its outstanding accomplishments in research, graduate employability, teaching and other facilities. 

Apart from its academic excellence, the campus features the Macquarie Research Park, museums, art galleries, a library, a sculpture park, an observatory, a sports and aquatic centre, and a private hospital. 

Macquarie University Highlights

University

Public

Established

1964

QS World Ranking 2024

130th

Acceptance rate

54%

Course offered

Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD

Admission intake

Fall and Spring

Annual course fees

  • Undergraduate - $35,000
  • Master’s - $34,000
  • PhD - $28,000

Entry requirements

IELTS (6.5 - 7.5) /TOEFL (90-100) /PTE (50-69)

Western Sydney University

Western Sydney University was founded in 1989 in the Greater Western Region of Sydney, Australia. Western Sydney University is accredited by TEQSA and is affiliated with AACSB, ACU, CAPA, IRU, AHURI, AMC, IAU, and Universities Australia. It is a top-tier institution with an increasing reputation for academic quality and research excellence. 

The university has six campuses: Bankstown, Blacktown, Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta, and Penrith. Apart from its academic excellence, the campus offers fitness and sporting facilities, parking, counselling, computer labs, cafes and canteen, a seminar room, and more. Western Sydney University also provides a wide range of on and off-campus living options that offer affordable accommodation and a balanced living and learning environment. 

Western Sydney University Highlights

University

Public

Established

1989

QS World Ranking 2024

375th

Acceptance rate

30%

Course offered

Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBA, and PhD

Admission intake

Mid-year

Annual course fees

  • Undergraduate - $21,000
  • Master’s -$56,821
  • MBA - $32,993
  • PhD -$2870

Entry requirements

IELTS (6.5 - 7.5) /TOEFL (90-100) /PTE (69)

Study at a University in Sydney

Contact SI-Australia today if you need help applying to study at a Sydney university.

Universities featured in this article:

  • University of Sydney
  • University of New South Wales
  • University of Technology Sydney
  • Macquarie University
  • Western Sydney University
Back to Study Guide

"SI-Australia helped me successfully apply to study business in Australia and I cannot thank them enough for their support. They assisted me with each step, ensuring I was aware of all my options in terms of program and university selection, making the process totally stress free."

Isabella Ramos Business and Management

Isabella Ramos