Explore Level 1 universities in Australia, their benefits, rankings, courses, and entry requirements for 2025
A dream for many international students, studying in Australia seems to offer a lot with a recognition of the education system across the world and top universities. Classification of universities, their rankings, and requirements become pretty informative for students who are preparing for the IELTS or PTE exam. This blog delves into the details of Level 1 universities in Australia, benefits they may offer, entry requirements, and a comprehensive comparison.
Your Ultimate Guide to Study Abroad
Australia continues to attract thousands of international students every year with its world-class education system, multicultural environment, and career prospects. In 2025, several Australian universities have risen in the rankings, offering a wide array of academic programs and opportunities for global learners. If you’re considering studying in Australia, understanding “Level 1” universities can help you choose the right institution for your educational and professional goals.
This guide explores everything you need to know about Level 1 universities in Australia for 2025, from their updated rankings to the benefits, entry requirements, and how they stand out.
What Are Level 1 Universities in Australia?
Better Outcomes for Genuine Providers: Education providers showing improved performance will be rewarded with upgraded Evidence Levels. (The Evidence Level updates were paused in September 2024 but are now resuming.)
Adjustments for Declining Providers: Providers with a worsening Evidence Level rating will be downgraded, except for those in higher education, schools, and vocational training sectors, who will remain at their current level under close monitoring.
Level 1 universities in Australia are institutions recognized for their academic excellence, innovative research, and robust global reputation. Next level updates will resume in March 2025.
What’s New for 2025?
Upgraded Rankings: Universities such as the University of South Australia have improved their status, moving to Level 1.
Elimination of Lower Levels: No Australian universities are currently classified under higher-risk categories like Level 3, ensuring consistent quality standards.
Focus on Academic and Research Excellence: Universities such as Federation University, the University of Tasmania, and the University of New England have advanced to Assessment Level 2 (AL2), with many striving to join AL1 institutions soon.
List of Level 1 Universities in Australia
The following table provides a detailed overview of Level 1 universities, including their QS rankings, location, and campus information.
| University | QS Ranking (2025) | Courses Offered | Location |
| University of Melbourne | 14 | Engineering, Medicine, Business, Arts, Health Sciences | Melbourne, VIC |
| University of Sydney | 18 | Law, Medicine, Nursing, Engineering, Arts, Social Work, Business | Sydney, NSW |
| University of New South Wales (UNSW) | 19 | Engineering, Law, Business, Medicine, Arts, Science | Sydney, NSW |
| Australian National University (ANU) | 34 | International Relations, Engineering, Law, Science, Arts | Canberra, ACT |
| Monash University | 42 | Biomedicine, Business, Law, Engineering, Education, Health | Melbourne, VIC |
| University of Queensland (UQ) | 43 | Medicine, Business, Environmental Sciences, Data Science | Brisbane, QLD |
| University of Western Australia (UWA) | 72 | Business, Marine Biology, Medicine, Law, Engineering | Perth, WA |
| University of Adelaide | 89 | Medicine, Engineering, Arts, Business, Sciences | Adelaide, SA |
| University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | 90 | Computer Science, Nursing, Accounting, Law, Business | Sydney, NSW |
| Macquarie University | 133 | Business, IT, Media, Law, Medicine, Arts | Sydney, NSW |
| RMIT University | 123 | Design, Engineering, IT, Media, Business | Melbourne, VIC |
| Deakin University | 197 | Business, Health Sciences, Engineering, Law, Arts | Victoria |
| University of South Australia (UniSA) | 340 | Business, Arts, Engineering, Data Science, Medicine | Adelaide, SA |
| University of Canberra (UC) | 403 | Health, IT, Education, Business, Arts | Canberra, ACT |
| Bond University | 587 | Business, Health Sciences, Law, IT, Media | Gold Coast, QLD |
| Australian Catholic University (ACU) | 901-950 | Education, Health Sciences, Arts, Business | Multi-state |
| University of Sunshine Coast (USC) | 1001-1100 | Environmental Sciences, Business, Education, Health | Sunshine Coast, QLD |
Why Choose a Level 1 University in Australia?
Choosing a Level 1 university offers numerous advantages:
- Globally Recognized Education: Australian universities are known for providing qualifications that hold global recognition.
- High Employability Rates: Graduates enjoy excellent job prospects, thanks to strong industry ties and hands-on learning approaches.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: These institutions offer cutting-edge labs, libraries, and research centers to enhance your learning experience.
- Diverse Programs: From engineering and business to healthcare and the arts, Level 1 universities provide a wide array of courses.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Many Level 1 universities offer financial aid to international students based on merit or need.
- Multicultural Environment: Study in a vibrant, inclusive setting that welcomes students from across the globe.
Entry Requirements for Level 1 Universities
To gain admission to a Level 1 university, students must meet specific eligibility criteria:
- English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall band score
- PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58
- Academic Requirements:
- Undergraduate programs: Completion of high school or equivalent (Year 12).
- Postgraduate programs: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- Course-Specific Prerequisites:
- Some programs may require portfolios (for design/arts) or prior work experience (for MBA or professional degrees)
Cost of Studying at Level 1 Universities
Tuition fees vary depending on the university and program. Here’s a general range for annual tuition fees:
- Undergraduate Programs: AUD 30,000–50,000
- Postgraduate Programs: AUD 35,000–75,000
- Additional costs for housing, healthcare, and living expenses should also be considered.
Scholarships for International Students
Many Level 1 universities in Australia provide scholarships and financial aid to attract top talent worldwide. Some popular scholarships include:
- Australia Awards Scholarships: Funded by the Australian government for postgraduate and undergraduate studies.
- University-Specific Scholarships: Offered based on academic merit or financial need.
- Research Grants: For postgraduate students involved in groundbreaking research projects.
Why Study in Australia with Innovative Future Steps?
Innovative Future Steps is your trusted partner in making your dream of studying abroad a reality.
Here’s how we help:
- University Selection: Guidance on choosing the right Level 1 university for your career goals.
- IELTS and PTE Preparation: Free mock tests and expert coaching to help you achieve the required scores.
- Application Assistance: Simplifying the application process, from document preparation to final submission.
- Visa Guidance: End-to-end support for securing your Australian student visa.
Ready to begin your study abroad journey? Let Innovative Future Steps guide you through every step of the way. Register now for a free mock test for IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL, and take the first step toward studying at a top-ranked university in Australia.
Your future in Australia awaits. Let’s make it happen!