07/10/2025
The University of Sydney is a leading public research university and the oldest in Australia, founded in 1850. Known for its high rankings and extensive research, the university is part of the Group of Eight, a coalition of Australia's most prestigious research-intensive universities.
Academics and rankings
Highly ranked: For 2025–2026, the university was ranked 25th in the world by the QS World University Rankings. It was also rated first in Australia and 12th globally for international student diversity.
Academic strengths: USyd is recognized for its strong performance across many fields. In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, it placed in the global top 20 for several disciplines, including endocrinology, social sciences, public health, artificial intelligence, and the arts and humanities.
Notable schools: The university is organized into eight academic faculties and schools, including the Business School,
Sydney Law School
, Faculty of Engineering, and Faculty of Medicine and Health.
Admission requirements for international students
The University of Sydney is selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 70%. Specific requirements vary by course, but general admission criteria include:
Recognized qualifications: Completion of a secondary school qualification recognized by the university, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), GCE A Levels, or India's All India Senior School Certificate.
Academic transcripts: Official transcripts of your previous academic records.
English language proficiency: A minimum IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 (with no band below 6.0) or an equivalent result from another approved test like TOEFL or PTE. Some courses may have higher requirements.
Additional criteria: Some competitive programs may require supplementary documents, such as a personal statement, portfolio, or letters of recommendation.
Application process: International applicants generally apply directly through the university's online portal. The application fee is AUD$150.
Tuition and fees
Tuition for international students varies significantly depending on the field of study. Based on 2026 figures, here is a general guide to annual full-time tuition fees (in Australian Dollars):
Undergraduate:
Arts and Social Sciences: A$49,200–A$56,300
Business: A$56,300–A$60,600
Engineering and Computer Science: A$60,600
Postgraduate coursework:
Arts and Social Sciences: A$49,700–A$57,300
Business: A$54,100–A$61,700
Engineering and Computer Science: A$57,900–A$63,400
Student life and campus culture
With over 70,000 students, USyd offers a diverse and vibrant campus experience.
Extracurricular activities: The University of Sydney Union (USU) manages more than 270 clubs and societies covering academic, cultural, social, and professional interests.
Extensive support: The university provides a range of support services, including student exchange programs, career counseling, health and medical services, and financial assistance.
Athletics: Sydney Uni Sport (SUS) provides access to programs and sports clubs, catering to all levels of fitness and competition.
On-campus facilities: Students have access to a variety of cafes, shops, and other amenities.
Notable alumni
The University of Sydney has produced numerous influential graduates who have made significant contributions in politics, law, the arts, and science.
Politics: Eight Australian prime ministers are alumni, including the first Prime Minister, Sir Edmund Barton, and the current Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese.
Law: Notable legal figures include former High Court justice Michael Kirby.
Science and innovation: Alumni include the inventors of Wi-Fi (John O'Sullivan and David Skellern), astronaut Paul Scully-Power, and Graeme Clark, inventor of the bionic ear implant.
Arts and media: Acclaimed figures in the arts include Pulitzer Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks and Oscar-winning film director Jane Campion.