Australia has become an increasingly attractive destination for Indian students seeking higher education. Currently, over 120,000 Indian students are studying there.
Level 1 universities in Australia are known for their academic excellence and research opportunities. Each year, a substantial number of Indian students seek admission to these esteemed universities.
In this article, we explore Level 1 universities in Australia and examine why they are an excellent choice for Indian students.
What does Level 1 university mean in Australia?
Level 1 universities refer to the best universities in Australia. These universities have emerged as leading education centers and appear high on global rankings.
Some of these universities are also a part of the “Group of Eight” which includes the country’s oldest and most respected universities.
Some examples of Level 1 universities are:
- University of Melbourne
- University of Sydney
- Australian National University (ANU)
- University of Queensland
- Monash University
- University of Western Australia (UWA)
- University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
These are the top universities in Australia and are highly sought after by international students due to their excellent standard of education and reputation.
Also Read: Study Abroad Guide for Indian Students 2025
List of Level 1 universities in Australia
Australia has several Level 1 universities. Each is renowned for its academic excellence and plentiful research output.
Here’s a list of these prestigious universities along with their QS 2025 rankings and locations:
| Serial Number | University Name | QS 2025 Rank | Location |
| 1 | The University of Melbourne | 13 | Parkville, Australia |
| 2 | The University of Sydney | 18 | Sydney, Australia |
| 3 | The University of New South Wales (UNSW) | 19 | Sydney, Australia |
| 4 | Australian National University (ANU) | 30 | Canberra, Australia |
| 5 | Monash University | 37 | Melbourne, Australia |
| 6 | The University of Queensland | 40 | Brisbane City, Australia |
| 7 | The University of Western Australia | 77 | Perth, Australia |
| 8 | The University of Adelaide | 82 | Adelaide, Australia |
| 9 | University of Technology Sydney | 88 | Haymarket, Australia |
| 10 | Macquarie University | 133 | Sydney, Australia |
| 11 | University of Wollongong | 167 | Wollongong, Australia |
| 12 | Deakin University | 197 | Melbourne, Australia |
Of course, these are just a few of the many universities you can consider applying to. Remember, the university that ranks #1 in general may not be the best fit for you.
The factors that matter most to you could include the likelihood of securing a job in your desired industry, the return on investment (ROI) of your education, and how easily you can get funding for your program.
You can compare universities based on these and other important criteria using SelectRight (by GradRight).
SelectRight is an AI-powered university selection platform. Here’s how it works:
- Create a profile and specify your preferences.
- Let the AI algorithm find the best universities for you.
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Next, let’s find out why so many students aspire to study at a Level 1 university in Australia.
Also Read: Study in Australia 2025: Process, Eligibility, Documents, Visa & More
Why study at Level 1 universities in Australia?
There are numerous advantages to studying at a Level 1 university in Australia. Here are the most compelling reasons.
Academic Excellence
Level 1 universities in Australia are known for offering the highest quality education across every discipline. There are rigorous academic standards and a strong culture of intellectual growth. Being a part of such an environment prepares a student for a successful career.
Research Opportunities
Level 1 universities are known for their research output. Each of these institutions contributes substantially to research and innovation.
There are specialized research labs that attract scholars and students who want to explore the cutting edge of science and technology. Being part of significant research projects is an excellent addition to any resume.
Global Recognition
The degrees granted by Level 1 universities in Australia carry significant prestige and are recognized by employers across the globe. This recognition increases employability in the best companies worldwide.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
These are the best universities in Australia and have the infrastructure for an optimal learning environment. There are extensive libraries and well-equipped laboratories which help a student to grow intellectually.
Program Diversity
These universities offer a vast array of degrees at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Not only do they tutor every branch of core engineering (mechanical, civil, electrical, etc) but also emerging domains such as AI and robotics.
Industry Connections
Level 1 universities in Australia have strong connections with many industries. This ensures there are internships and summer programs through which a student can gain on-the-job experience. This close connection allows students to gain practical experience and become well-prepared.
Work Opportunities
Australia offers the Post-Higher Education Work Visa for international students who have passed out from Australian universities.
If you graduate with a degree from a Level 1 university it is easier to secure a work visa and later on, apply for permanent residency. A degree from a Level 1 university is held in high esteem and makes the path of naturalization smoother.
Financial Support
Many Level 1 universities offer scholarships based on merit and need that go a long way towards supporting international students. These scholarships help reduce the cost of studying and make higher education in Australia more affordable.
Exams for admission to Level 1 universities in Australia
It is crucial to understand the various entrance exams for admission to Australian level 1 universities. There are specific academic and language proficiency requirements for application to top universities in Australia.
English Language Proficiency Tests
The medium of instruction at Australian universities is English. As a student from a non-English speaking country, you need to take an English language proficiency test.
This is not only necessary for admission to college and universities but also for a student visa. These are the proficiency tests generally accepted by the best universities in Australia.
IELTS
IELTS is the acronym for International English Language Testing System. It is a widely accepted test. For admission to a Level 1 university, you must have a minimum overall band score of 6.5 to 7.0 with no individual band lower than 6.0
TOEFL
Test of English as a Foreign Language or TOEFL as it is commonly known is another popular exam that measures the English language ability of non-native speakers. The minimum score requirement usually ranges from 90 to 100 on the internet-based test.
PTE
PTE or the Pearson Test of English score is accepted by most Australian Level 1 universities. A minimum score between 58 and 65 is desirable.
DET
The Duolingo English Test is gradually gaining popularity due to its low cost. A score of at least 100 is required.
You can also check with the university of your choice to find out which English test you need to take and the minimum score required.
Standardized Admission Tests
There is no mandatory requirement for standardized tests that assess academic acumen. Admission is based on scores received at high school and undergraduate level. However, including the scores of standardized tests makes your application stronger.
SAT
The Scholastic Aptitude Test is a standardized test for college admissions. SAT takes place multiple times each year and a score above 1,200 is desirable for admission to an undergraduate course at a reputed Australian college.
GMAT
The Graduate Management Admission Test is crucial for admission to business schools and management courses. A competitive score ranges from 600 to 700, depending on the university.
GRE
The Graduate Record Examinations is a standardized test used to evaluate an applicant’s aptitude for postgraduate courses. A candidate must score in the 60th percentile at least.
MCAT
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a multiple-choice examination for assessing a candidate’s readiness for an Australian medical school. A student must score at least 500 for entry to an institution of his choice.
Also Read: Top Exam Required to Study in Australia for Masters and Undergraduate
Admission process for Level 1 universities in Australia
The admissions process for Level 1 Australian universities is rigorous and ensures that only the most suitable candidates are selected. This guide outlines the steps involved for Indian students:
- Research and Select Universities
Before you apply, you must research various Level 1 universities to find those that offer their desired programs.
There are multiple level 1 universities in Australia and some such as the University of Melbourne offer over 300 master’s degrees and diplomas including 44 engineering degrees.
You must consider factors like:
- University rankings
- Course offerings
- Tuition fees
- Location and campus facilities
- Support services for international students
And decide the best institutions for you.
- Prepare Required Documents
Level 1 universities require certified academic records and proof of prior qualifications. As part of your application, you’ll be required to submit:
- Academic Transcripts
- Proof of English Proficiency
- Standardized Test Scores
- Letters of Recommendation (at least two)
- Statement of Purpose
3. Complete Application Forms
Unlike many other countries, Australia doesn’t have a central application system. You’ll need to apply to each university separately online or via post. You also have to pay an application fee which is approximately AUD 100.
4. Await Admission Decisions
After submitting applications, students must wait for admission decisions. Most universities have intake in August – September and declare outcomes by the previous December.
5. Secure Visa
Once you are admitted to an Australian level 1 university the next step is to secure a student visa. You have to apply for a student visa known as a subclass 500 visa. It allows you to live and study in Australia for five years. The student visa fees start from AUD 1,600. It takes about two months to receive the visa.
Top 5 reasons to study at Level 1 universities in Australia
Australian level 1 universities are renowned for their academic excellence and global recognition. Here are the top five reasons to pursue education at these esteemed universities.
1. Academic Excellence
Level 1 universities in Australia are well known for providing high-quality education. As the list above shows, they consistently ranked among the best in the world.
No less than nine of them feature in the top 100 universities globally. The faculty at these universities often includes leading experts in their fields who offer students cutting-edge knowledge.
2. Global Recognition
Graduate and postgraduate degrees from Level 1 universities carry a significant reputation in the international job market. These institutions are recognized for their commitment to quality education and research. A degree from these institutions makes graduates more attractive to employers.
3. Latest Facilities
Level 1 universities invest heavily in infrastructure and facilities to provide a suitable learning environment for students.
They have modern classrooms, well-stocked libraries, and advanced laboratories for practical learning. Access to such facilities enhances the educational experience and helps students become top-notch scholars.
4. Diverse Programs
The best universities in Australia offer a wide array of programs. Whether a student is interested in engineering, business, arts, or sciences, they can find a suitable course that aligns perfectly with their learning objective. There is also a scope for interdisciplinary studies which lets students broaden their skills.
5. Strong Industry Connections
Level 1 universities have strong ties with Australian industries and businesses. This facilitates internships, on-site training opportunities, and placements. These connections allow students to gain invaluable practical experience while studying.
These universities are located in the safest and most prosperous cities in Australia. This makes them very attractive to students from India who want to live and study in a clean, green environment.
Also Read: Why Study in Australia: Top Reasons To Pursue Higher Studies in Australia
Expenses of studying at Level 1 universities in Australia
Tuition fees at the best Australian universities can vary widely depending on the program and university chosen.
Here’s a breakdown of the expected expenses:
Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate Degree: AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000 per year
- Postgraduate Degree: AUD 24,000 – AUD 50,000 per year
Living Expenses
Indian students also have to budget for living expenses while studying in Australia. Typical monthly costs include:
- On-campus Accommodation: AUD 500
- Off-campus Accommodation: AUD 2,500
- Food and Groceries: Between AUD 300 and 600
- Transportation: Between AUD 100 and 200
- Utilities: Between AUD 150 and 250
In addition, one has to budget for textbooks and supplies which can cost approximately AUD 600 each year.
The total cost of studying in Australia is between AUD 30,000 and 80,000 annually, depending on the tuition fee and accommodation type.
There are plenty of scholarships and financial aid options available at various Level 1 universities to help students mitigate the cost of education and stay.
Note: When considering the expenses of studying at Level 1 universities in Australia, you need to look at your university experience from an ROI perspective, not just the costs. Ensuring that your education investment pays off in terms of future job opportunities and earning potential is crucial. If you secure a low-interest education loan, it makes this investment even more worthwhile.
This is where FundRight (by GradRight) can help. FundRight simplifies the entire loan search process by giving you access to competitive loan offers from over 15 top lenders, both domestic and international.
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- Compare your choices and select the best offer.
- Expert advice from a FundRight advisor will guide you to make the best decision.
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You only need to create a single profile, and FundRight’s platform does the rest. The service ensures you receive personalized, competitive loan options without needing to approach multiple lenders individually. Plus, you can reach out to FundRight’s financial experts for help with any questions, negotiations for better terms, or guidance on securing a higher loan amount if needed.
With FundRight, you streamline the search for an education loan, helping you focus on your studies and future, knowing you’ve secured the best financial support available.
FAQs
In Australia, universities are categorized into multiple tiers based on their research intensity and quality of education. Level 1 universities belong to the top tier.
A few examples include:
– University of Melbourne
– University of Sydney
– University of Queensland
– Australian National University (ANU)
Deakin University is considered to be a Level 1 university. It has a global rank of #197 in QS World University Rankings 2025. Deakin is a part of the top 1% of universities worldwide and is a fine institution.
Every Level 1 university in Australia has a five-star rating by the university ranking organization, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). We have given a comprehensive list above.
There are huge benefits to studying at a Level 1 university in Australia. These universities are among the best institutions in the world and a degree from an Australian Level 1 university, like the University of Sydney, is held in high regard by employers. Moreover, students can engage in research and entrepreneurial projects which expands their career options.
The tuition fee is between AUD 20,000 and AUD 50,000 for various undergraduate and postgraduate courses. In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider other expenses, including living expenses, which range from AUD 15,000 to AUD 25,000 per year.
