Top 5 Universities in Canberra: Ranking, Quick Facts & Reasons to Study

Why Study at Universities in Canberra?

There are various reasons why applicants should choose to study at universities in Canberra and these reasons are as follows:

• Canberra is the capital city of Australia and is a vibrant city with a touch of modernity. Canberra has one of the lowest crime rates across Australia, making it a suitable place for international students to study. 
• High in employment rate, Canberra City also provides job opportunities to budding students who are enthusiastic about their career goals, graduating from top colleges in Canberra.
• All major study areas and options are available for international students applying to various universities in Canberra.
• There are scholarships worth AUD 50,000 available at universities in Canberra for international students, which can help them manage their finances easily. 
• Admission rates at universities in Canberra are pretty high, touching 68%, which means there is a high rate of selectivity at these universities in Canberra.
• There is a huge diversity found across the universities of Canberra, and the maximum number of students is international; hence, it is another plus point for applicants.
• For those who have not studied a certain subject, they are eligible to go for pathway programs while being enrolled at these universities.  

Candidates planning to study in the top universities of Canberra are sure to experience a perfect study-life balance in the city of Canberra.

Top Ranking Universities in Canberra 2025

Following are the universities that have been ranked as per QS and THE in the world university rankings for the year 2024-25:

There are just five universities in Canberra; out of these, only three have been ranked for 2025. Let us check out in detail other universities in Canberra in the section below.

List of Top 5 Universities in Canberra

The following are the best 5 universities in Canberra for international students:

1. Australian National University

One of Australia's leading universities, the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra attracts hundreds of students from all across the globe, creating a diverse and enriching community where everyone is made to feel at home. Candidates looking to be admitted to the ANU can select from a broad range of specialities across the seven academic colleges housed on the university campus. Founded in 1946, the university also works closely with the government and organizations whose sole purpose is innovation, creativity and leadership advancement of the nation. Hence, aspirants who graduate from ANU would not only be graduating from one of the leading universities with a world-recognized degree but would also be guaranteed a rewarding job opportunity after completing their graduation. If planning to pursue a course with ANU, visit for more details about the following popular courses offered at the university.

• Master of Business Administration
• Master of Computing
• Master of Engineering in Mechatronics 

Quick Facts

• There are seven academic colleges in the university, with various schools and research centres - College of Arts & Social Sciences, College of Asia & the Pacific, College of Business & Economics, College of Engineering & Computer Science, College of Health & Medicine, College of Law, and College of Science.

• The number of Nobel Laureates among staff and alumni is higher at ANU than at any other Australian university.

• It has ranked #73 globally for study in 2023.

2. Canberra Institute of Technology

The Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is one of the largest technical and vocational education providers in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). This TAFE institute is globally known for its small class sizes, world-class facilities, practical hands-on learning, industry placement opportunities, and study pathways to leading Australian universities. Aspirants looking to be admitted to Canberra Institute of Technology can apply to one of its certificate programmes in Bachelor Degree level qualifications designed for people who want to study for a career, gain new skills, change careers or prepare for further study. The internationally recognised courses of CIT offer practical experience, not just theory, so students graduate with invaluable industry skills and connections. If planning to pursue a course with CIT, check out the following popular courses:

• Bachelor of Forensic Science (Crime Scene Examination)
• Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Technology
• Diploma of Building Design

Quick Facts

• Over 20,000 students, from over 75 nations, are studying here at present.
• Over 90% of the graduates obtain a job or opt to study further, within six months of course completion.
• The university has five campuses across Canberra.

3. University of Canberra

Often ranked among the top universities in the world, the University of Canberra is one of the most sought-after education institutes by international students. The university is globally known for its highly-qualified teachers, and courses with a strong emphasis on work-integrated learning, providing students with a healthy concoction of valuable experiences mixed with key workplace skills. The university has also recorded an 89% graduate employment rate and higher starting salaries than most top-performing universities across Australia. The college campus boats a full range of facilities and services available for all students and staff. There is an on-campus medical Centre, pharmacy, student-led health clinics, fitness centre and gym, food outlets and cafes, bank, bookshop, post office, multi-faith centre, childcare facilities and preschool among other facilities. Planning to pursue a course with the University of Canberra, visit the following course pages for more details:

• Master of Business Administration
• Master of Information Technology and Systems
• Bachelor of Software Engineering

Quick Facts

• Considered as the fastest-rising Australian university and one of the fastest in the world.
• More than 200 undergraduate, postgraduate, and research-level courses are available at the university.
• The University of Canberra has recorded the highest international student enrollment in 2024 compared to other universities in the city. 

Also read:

• Australia Student Visa Guide
• Student Guide to Australia
• Eligibility requirement and application procedure Australia
• Student life in Australia: Iconic foods to try

4. UNSW Canberra

International students seeking postgraduate studies can apply to the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra at the Australian Defense Force Academy (ADFA) close to the CBD for a holistic experience. Students admitted to the university are treated to a large library, computing facilities and labs, sports facilities, a cafe and a bookshop among other amenities. Scholars studying at the UNSW are provided with outstanding experience to reach their full potential and build their future careers. Ranked among the world’s best, the university has featured in the list of ‘Australia’s Global University.’  

Quick Facts

• Known for defence-related research, bushfire prediction modelling, public sector management, and Australian literature.

• Over 79% of undergraduates obtain a full-time job within four months of graduating. 
• The retention rates and graduation rates at UNSW Canberra are the highest among other universities in Canberra.

5. Australian Catholic University

Starting at a new university in a foreign land can be a daunting experience, however, the Australian Catholic University (ACU), promises its students to make this journey a memorable affair, from the first day itself. Education at ACU is all about blending academic knowledge and skills with the practical experience employers demand on the work front. Move out of the classrooms and students would be introduced to state-of-the-art facilities and activities to bring about holistic growth in the student. Planning to pursue a course with the ACU, visit the following courses:

• Master of Professional Accounting
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Bachelor of Information Technology 

Quick Facts

• There are over 5,200 students, from over 100 countries, studying here.
• First in Australia for graduate employment.
• Ranks among the top 1% of universities in the world.

Canberra – the capital city of Australia provides international students with a recognised degree and a well-balanced education mixed with professional training. The picturesque landscapes and modern city life allow students studying in the top universities in Canberra a chance to experience the best of student life abroad.

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