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Southern Cross University: Rankings, Cost, Programs, Placements
185 acre campus- Estd. 1994
Last updated on 4 Oct '25SCUWhat's new?
- The Term 4 application deadline for international students is Sep 03, 2025.
About Southern Cross University
Established in 1994, Southern Cross University is a public university in east coast of Australia. Southern Cross University has multiple campuses in New South Wales, southeast Queensland, Lismore, and Coffs Harbour. The branch campuses in Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney operate by collaborating with EduCo. The Hotel School Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne are operated by the university in collaboration with Mulpha Australia. As per the claim by an unofficial source, Southern Cross University acceptance rate is 67%. A mid-range acceptance rate means it is not very difficult to get selected into the university.
Southern Cross University offers degrees in collaboration with Papua New Guinea and China. To date, three major programs have been formulated by them, including Sustain Food, Sustain Transport, and Sustain Energy. All the undergraduate and postgraduate programs are organized into 6 schools, 2 colleges, and 2 research centers. The university maintains School of Health and Human Sciences, School of Education, School of Arts and Social Sciences, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, etc. The first-year tuition fee for SCU ranges between INR 14.5 lakh and INR 18 lakh for UG and PG courses. Read the complete article to know more about Southern Cross University.
Read more: Top Ranked Universities in Australia 2024
Check below for quick facts around Southern Cross University:
Check out the below videos of Southern Cross University for more Information:
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
The university does not release an explicit acceptance rate. However, as per some unofficial sources, the Southern Cross University acceptance rate is 67%. The acceptance rate of the university not that low and implies it is not very difficult to get selected into the university. Students can improve their chances of selection into the university by:
- Having good grades
- Better scores of eligibility exams
- Having professional experience and detailed CV
Southern Cross University ranking is among the top universities in the world by QS World University ranking 2024. The university offers the world best programme to students at an affordable tuition fees. University graduates get better career opportunities after completing the degree. Therefore, yes Southern Cross University is good for international students.
Read about the Indian Students in Australia
International students whose first language is not English, must submit the proof of English language proficiency. We have mentioned below the English language comparable scores to Academic IELTS for international students:
IELTS Score | TOEFL Score | PTE Score |
4.5 with no band less than 4.0 | 32-34 | 30 |
5.0 with no band less than 4.5 | 35-45 | 36 |
5.5 with no band less than 5.0 | 46 with no less than 16 in writing | 42 with no communicative score less than 36 |
6.0 with no band less than 5.5 | 60 with no less than 17 in writing and speaking, no less than 11 in reading and listening | 50 with no communicative score less than 46 |
6.5 with no band less than 6.0 | 79 with no less than 21 in writing and 20 in other areas | 58 with no communicative score less than 50 |
7.0 with no band less than 6.5 | 94 with no less than 24 in writing | 65 with no communicative score less than 58 |
7.0 with no band less than 7.0 | 94 with no less than 25 in writing | 65 with no communicative score less than 65 |
Know more about the Exams Required to Study in Australia
Southern Cross University Ranking 2025
Southern Cross University secured its place in the year 2025 among the top universities in the world with #576 ranking according to the QS. This ranking has seen an improved trend when compared to its past year rank of #651 in 2024.
On the other hand, Shiksha Polpularity Ranking ranked the university at #31 position and THE (Times Higher Education) ranked it at #501 in 2024 at University Ranking.
The Southern Cross University courses have also secured ranks #35, #34, #33 for its MIM, MS, Others PG courses, respectively.
#498
#32
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
SCU has been ranked by multiple ranking agencies. Check below some of the SCU rankings:
- Southern Cross University is ranked between 701 and 750 in QS World Rankings 2024.
- US News and World Report 2024 ranked SCU at 997 position in Best Global Universities.
- In THE 2023 rankings, the university was ranked between 351 and 400.
According to QS World University Ranking 2024, Southern Cross University world ranking is 651-700, which improves from 701-750 in 2023. According to SCU, the university ranks among the top 100 universities for Oceanography. Check the below table to know more about the Southern Cross University ranking:
Subjects | Ranking |
|---|---|
Oceanography | Top 100 by ARWU |
Nursing | Top 150 by ARWU |
Environmental Sciences | Top 450 by QS Ranking |
Southern Cross University Popular Courses 2024
Southern Cross University got the top rating for 'well above world standard' in six research areas. There are quite a few academic and research programs at the university. The university offers more than 200 courses at various levels including UG, PG and research levels. The university is among the top choices in the region. The average tuition fee for UG courses is INR 17-21 L and for PG courses is INR 16-18 L.
As per the alumni data, some of Southern Cross University popular courses are:
Also read, popular courses in Australia
13.6K+ students got admitted through us.
nityanand + 5 others got admitted through us.
13.6K+ students got admitted through us.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
SCU got the top rating for 'well above world standard' in six research areas. Check below High ranking subject areas for Southern Cross University as per THE:
- Physical Sciences - Top 300
- Psychology - Top 400
- Life Sciences - Top 400
- Education - Top 500
- Social Sciences - Top 500
- Business and Economics - Top 800
Southern Cross University tuition fee for international students for some of the popular courses is given below:
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
MS (1 course) | INR 21 L |
INR 16 L - 18 L | |
MIM (2 courses) | INR 16 L - 18 L |
B.E. / B.Tech (2 courses) | INR 17 L - 21 L |
BBA (2 courses) | INR 17 L - 18 L |
MEM (1 course) | INR 21 L |
B.Sc. (1 course) | INR 18 L |
BSN (1 course) | INR 17 L |
BHM (1 course) | INR 18 L |
Others PG (1 course) | INR 16 L |
Southern Cross University Admission Dates 2025
The important dates and deadlines (Term-4 and Term 5) for international students applying to Southern Cross University are given below:
|
Event |
Dates |
|---|---|
| Term 4 Deadline |
Sep 3, 2025 |
| Term 5 Deadline |
Oct 29, 2025 |
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Southern Cross University admission deadlines are released for onshore and offshore students. Check below the tentative schedule:
Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Term 4 Deadline | Sep 3, 2025 |
| Term 5 Deadline | Oct 29, 2025 |
International students can apply for Southern Cross University admissions by following the below steps:
Step 1: Start your application (apply through scu.edu.au/international-study or submit International Application)
Step 2: Assessment: Application will be reviewed and responded within 10 days
Step 3: Accept: Review the Offer to make sure all information is correct and submit extra documents
International students can check How to Apply for UG & PG Courses in Australia?
To prevent delays, fill out the International Application for Admission form and append all supporting papers, including:
- Academic records, certified copy (including grading system)
- The outcome of the English language exam (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or other)
- References from professors or employers (if required)
- Request for Advanced Standing (if relevant)
Advanced standing applies to prior study or job experience that may shorten the period it takes to complete a degree. Remember to qualify for advanced standing before you submit your application since the credit will decide your research schedule.
SCUSouthern Cross University Scholarships
To support international students, Southern Cross University offers various scholarships. These scholarships recognize academic quality, cultural diversity and encourage international students to explore the opportunities at campus. Check below some of the scholarships of Southern Cross University-
|
Scholarship Name |
Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|
|
Advancement Scholarship |
A $8000 maximum fee reduction for your first scholarship year |
|
Academic Performance Scholarship |
$5,000 maximum fee reduction for your first scholarship year |
|
International Outstanding Academic Performance Scholarship |
$8000 maximum fee reduction for your first scholarship year |
|
SCU International Women in STEM Scholarship |
$8,000 maximum fee reduction for your first scholarship year |
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Check below some of the scholarships of Southern Cross University for international students:
Scholarship Name | Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|
Advancement Scholarship | A $8000 maximum fee reduction for your first scholarship year |
Academic Performance Scholarship | $5,000 maximum fee reduction for your first scholarship year |
International Outstanding Academic Performance Scholarship | $8000 maximum fee reduction for your first scholarship year |
SCU International Women in STEM Scholarship | $8,000 maximum fee reduction for your first scholarship year |
International students get Southern Cross University scholarships to support their studies.
· International Advancement Scholarship (current student)
· Academic Performance Scholarship (current student)
· International Outstanding Academic Performance Scholarship (current student)
· SCU International Women in STEM Scholarship (future student)
· Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence (future student)
· Vice Chancellor’s International Diversification Scholarship (future student)
· SCU International Regional Scholarship (future students)
Know more about the Top Australia Scholarships for International Students 2023-24
SCU Popular Courses
2 yearsSCUStudents Ratings & Reviews
1 Verified Review- 100% students never faced discrimination in this university
Southern Cross University Placements
Southern Cross University has a career hub for the support of the students. The resources at Career Hub will help students find part-time and graduate jobs, learn valuable networking and career management skills and kick-start their careers. Being one of the top-ranked universities, the students get some of the best job opportunities. As per the alumni data, some of the areas where students after graduating from Southern Cross University work are
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Yes, Southern Cross University has a career hub for the support of the students. The resources at career hub will help students find part-time and graduate jobs, learn valuable networking and career management skills and kick-start their career.
Southern Cross University Fees & Eligibility
As per the claim by an unofficial source, the first-year tuition fee for SCU ranges between INR 14.5 lakh and INR 18 lakh for UG and PG courses. International students can check below eligibility for Southern Cross University admission:
Undergraduate: Candidates need to pass Class 12 or IB to apply for a UG course.
Postgraduate: A minimum of bachelor's degree is required to apply for SCU PG courses.
The university accepts IELTS scores. The IELTS requirement varies for each UG course. Find below the English language requirement for Southern Cross University:
|
English Test |
Score Requirement |
|---|---|
|
IELTS |
4.5 – 7.0 |
Read more: Study in Australia, Check out the requirements to study in Australia
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(4 courses) | INR 15 L - 21 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7, PTE: 58 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above |
MBA/PGDM(3 courses) | INR 16 L - 19 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above |
BSN(2 courses) | INR 15 L - 17 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 & Above, PTE, TOEFL |
B.E. / B.Tech(3 courses) | INR 15 L - 22 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3-4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above, TOEFL: 60 & Above |
MEM(2 courses) | INR 15 L - 21 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above |
B.Sc.(10 courses) | INR 15 L - 19 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3-4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 - 8, PTE: 46 & Above, TOEFL: 60 & Above |
BBA(2 courses) | INR 18 L - 19 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 60 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above |
BHM(2 courses) | INR 19 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2-3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, PTE, TOEFL |
PG Diploma(4 courses) | INR 15 L - 17 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, PTE |
M.A.(1 course) | INR 15 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 & Above, PTE |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
International students have to meet Southern Cross University entry requirements to get admission tot eh university. Academic qualifications specify the minimum academic standards that students must meet in order to be considered for a specific course.
Entry Conditions for Undergraduate Students
· The minimum entry score for undergraduate degrees is based on the Australian Year 12 qualification, as determined by the Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR).
· Must submit the additional test score of ACT/SAT if required
· Submit the English language test score
Entry conditions for Postgraduate Students
· A qualification equal to an Australian bachelor's degree, as well as basic qualifications, as mentioned in the course structure page. Students who do not have a bachelor's degree yet have significant related job experience may be accepted to a graduate Diploma or master’s program.
· Must submit the additional test score of GMAT/GRE if required
· Submit the English language test score
Also read: What are the Requirements to Study in Australia for International Students?
Southern Cross University acceptance rate is 67% indicating a moderately selective process. Studens wishing to get into the university must meet the eligibility criteria. Check below the SCU eligibility for UG and PG courses:
Undergraduate: Candidates need to pass Class 12 or IB to apply for a UG course.
Postgraduate: A minimum of bachelor's degree is required to apply for SCU PG courses.
Yes, the requirement for IELTS score varies course-wise for Southern Cross University admission. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is an English language exam that is required to be taken by international candidates considering studying or working in a country where English is the main language of communication. Check below IELTS score requirement:
English Test | Score Requirement |
|---|---|
IELTS | 4.5 – 7.0 |
Southern Cross University Application Process
The application process at Southern Cross University is given below:
Southern Cross University Notable Alumni
Some of the notable alumni of the Southern Cross University are:
| Alumni | Best Known for | Image |
|---|---|---|
| Ashok Lavasa | Former Election Commissioner of India |  |
| Linda Reynolds | Australian politician |  |
| Mickalene Thomas | African-American visual artist best known as a painter of complex works using rhinestones, acrylic, and enamel |  |
| Justin Harrison | Former Australian international rugby union player |  |
| Poto Williams | New Zealand Labour Party politician |  |
| Steve Price | Australian former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s primarily as a prop |  |
| Daniel McDaniel | Retired senior officer of the Australian Army |  |
| Tamara Smith | Australian politician |  |
| Caroline Le Couteur | Australian politician |  |
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
SCU alumni network includes famous personalities. Check below names of the some of the famous alumni of Southern Cross University:
- Linda Reynolds (Australian Politician)
- Ashok Lavasa (1980 batch Indian Administrative Service officer of Haryana cadre)
- Mickalene Thomas (African-American visual artist)
- Justin Harrison (Australian international rugby union player)
- Tamara Smith (Australian Politician)
Southern Cross University is known to be one of the popular universities in the region. The university has alumni members in more than 100 countries in the world. One of the famous Indian who graduated from the Southern Cross University is Ashok Lawasa. He is a retired IAS officer and former Election Commissioner of India. Mr. Lavasa is known for his work ethics, principle and honesty. He has also served as the Finance Secretary of India, Environment, Forests and Climate Change Secretary of India and Civil Aviation Secretary of India. He served as the Vice President of Asian Development Bank.
Southern Cross VS New England VS Southern Queensland: Which is better
A brief comparison among the universities is given below:
Compare SCU with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 14.66 L - 21.3 L | #638 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 19.69 L - 22.05 L | #440 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 16.42 L - 17.36 L | #601 THE, 2025 | |
| INR 15.78 L - 16.56 L | -/- | |
| INR 19.89 L | -/- |
CompareStudying in Australia
Cost of studying in Australia varies with the type of courses an international student pursues. The cost of studying in Australia varies between AUD 300 (INR 15,933) a week to AUD 50,000 (INR 26.55 lakh) annually. International students can get an approximate cost of studying based on the level of courses pursued in Australia for prospective international and Indian students from the table below:
|
Level of Education in Australia |
Costs for Indian Students |
|---|---|
|
Undergraduate Bachelor Degree |
INR 11.07 L - 24.90 L |
|
Postgraduate Master’s Degree |
INR 12.18 L - 27.68 L |
|
Doctoral Degree |
INR 9.96 L - 23.25 L |
|
Vocational Education and Training |
INR 2.21 L - 12.18 L |
|
English language courses** |
INR 16,650 (per week) |
Cost of Living
Apart from the studying cost, international students have also to take care of their living costs in Australia. These costs vary depending on the area of residence, on-campus accommodation and food costs. Following are the estimated costs per month based on the choice of accommodation-
- Cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the City- AUD 1,990 (INR 1.05 L)
- Cost of the one-bedroom apartment outside the City- AUD 1,575 (INR 83.6 K)
- Cost of a three-bedroom apartment in the City- AUD 3,410 (INR 1.81 L)
- Cost of a three-bedroom apartment outside of the City- AUD 2,410 (INR 1.27 L)
Key Facts About Australia
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Commonly asked questions On Study in Country
International students can get an approximate cost of studying based on the level of courses pursued in Australia for prospective international and Indian students from the table below:
Level of Education in Australia | Costs for Indian Students |
|---|---|
Undergraduate Bachelor Degree | INR 11.07 Lakhs - 24.90 Lakhs |
Postgraduate Master’s Degree | INR 12.18 Lakhs - 27.68 Lakhs |
Doctoral Degree | INR 9.96 Lakhs - 23.25 Lakhs |
Vocational Education and Training (VET)* | INR 2.21 Lakhs - 12.18 Lakhs |
English language courses* | INR 16,650 (per week) |
Southern Cross University FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about Southern Cross University
Southern Cross University is a private research university established in 1994, in Lismore, Australia. The university is known for its state-of-the-art research facility and high-quality education to its students.
Variety of Courses: The university is known in the world for providing competitive and cutting edge education to students.
Diversity: The international students at the university represents more than 100 countries.
Placement: The students after graduating from Southern Cross University are recruited in top firm around the world within 3 months of graduation.
Top ranked University: The University is one of the top 600 ranked university around the world as per various ranking bodies.
Established in the year 1994, Southern Cross University is a public university situated in east cost of Australia. Southern Cross University has multiple campuses in New South Wales, southeast Queensland, Lismore, and Coffs Harbour. The branch campuses in Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney operate by collaborating with EduCo. The Hotel School Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne are operated by the university in collaboration with Mulpha Australia.
Southern Cross University got the top rating for 'well above world standard' in six research areas. There are quite a few academic and research programs at the university. All the undergraduate and postgraduate programs are organized into 6 schools, 2 colleges, and 2 research centers. The university maintains School of Health and Human Sciences, School of Education, School of Arts and Social Sciences, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, School of Business and Tourism, School of Law and Justice, SCU College, Centre for Peace and Social Justice, National Marine Science Centre, and Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples.
The application to study by distance education are made directly to Southern Cross University. From a course sheet check that the course is offered by Online Education.
Step 1: To apply, go to the 'How to Apply' tab
Step 2: Click the 'Apply Online' button.
Step 3: Fill out the form.
Southern Cross University is good for studying MBA in Australia as it offers the low-cost Masters in Business Administration programme to international students. SCU Online's MBA programme is rated as one of the best in Australia. Therefore, yes Southern Cross University is good for studying MBA in Australia.
Read more about the MBA in Australia Guide
There is Southern Cross University application fee for international students to admission in undergraduate and graduate programs. However, students have to meet the entry requirements as mentioned by the university. Southern Cross University requirements varies as per the program. Students have to submit the admission application before the deadline.
SCU
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 10 months ago
After you accept Southern Cross University's offer, you should get your Certificate of Enrollment (CoE) within 24 hours. The CoE is issued once the institution has received your signed acceptance form and confirmed payment.
Here are some actions you can take after accepting your offer:
Arrange fees:
P
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a year ago
According to some unofficial sources, Southern Cross University Sydney has an acceptance rate of around 70% making it slightly difficult to get into for admissions. Some of the admission requirements for international applicants are given as follows:
- Academic Transcripts
- Letters of Recommendation
- Resu
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
The first year tuition fees for international students at Southern Cross University Sydney are given as follows:
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
BBA (2 courses) | INR 18 L |
MIM (1 course) | INR 18 L |
MS (1 course) | INR 19 L |
MEM (1 course) | INR 19 L |
PG Diploma (1 course) | INR 19 L |
MBA/PGDM (2 courses) | INR 20 L |
UG Diploma (2 courses) | INR 17 L - INR 18 L |
MIM (1 course) | INR 20 L |
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
Southern Cross University Sydney has three main coast campuses. Some of the campuses of the university are given as follows:
- Coffs Harbour
- Gold Coast
- Northern Rivers
- Coomera Creative Campus
- The Hotel School
- Metropolitan locations
- National Marine Science Center
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
The steps to apply for international students at Southern Cross University are given as follows:
- Students must complete the online application form
- International applicants can choose from the list of courses available on the official application portal
- While applying online, students must also submit
Contributor-Level 10
About the author
Main Building
Campus
Building
SCULocation
| University City | Lismore, New South Wales, Australia |
| Size of city | Small |
| Population of City | 27,569 |
SCUContact Information
Military Rd, East Lismore NSW 2480, Australia
Lismore ( New South Wales)
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