Universities in Canberra Australia

Did you know Canberra has the highest average level of education in Australia and is ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world?

Known as the nation’s capital, Canberra combines the vibrancy of a growing tech and research hub with the charm of a student-friendly, community-centric city. It's clean, green, safe, and full of opportunity.

Home to top-tier institutions, world-class libraries, national museums, and government agencies, Canberra offers students unparalleled access to internships, research jobs, and public sector careers. With lower living costs than Sydney or Melbourne and easy access to stunning national parks, it's no wonder students from over 100 countries choose Canberra.

Benefits of Studying in Canberra Universities 

Studying in Canberra offers students a unique blend of academic excellence, career opportunities, and lifestyle advantages. Here’s why choosing a Canberra university is a smart decision:

Academic Excellence

• Home to the Australian National University (ANU), ranked #1 in Australia.
• High investment in research, with strong global partnerships and government funding.
• Diverse programs from vocational diplomas to PhDs.

Career-Ready Environment

• Strong job market, especially in public policy, cybersecurity, and research.
• Close proximity to federal government offices, offering internships and graduate job opportunities.
• High graduate employability and strong industry ties.

International Student Friendly

• Over 25% of Canberra’s students are from overseas.
• Affordable living compared to Sydney and Melbourne.
• Safe, multicultural environment with excellent public transport and student housing.

 Lifestyle & Nature

• Compact, clean, and easy to navigate city with green spaces and walking trails.
• National parks, lakes, and ski resorts are all within a few hours.
• The rich arts and culture scene includes galleries, music festivals, and food markets.

List of Universities in Canberra Australia

Below is a comprehensive guide to the top universities in Canberra, including rankings, popular courses, admission insights, and costs. All info is curated to help you compare and choose the best-fit university through FindMyUni.

University	QS Ranking	Top Courses	Admission & Costs
Australian National University (ANU)	#30	International Relations, Law, Science, Public Policy	Highly competitive. Undergraduate tuition ~AUD 45,000/year. Scholarships are available for high-achieving and international students.
University of Canberra (UC)	#=403	Nursing, Education, Sports Science, IT	Mid-range entry requirements. Tuition ~AUD 28,000–35,000/year. Pathway and English support programs are offered.
UNSW Canberra (at ADFA)	#19	Engineering, Cybersecurity, Defence Studies	Selective intake, mostly for Defence-related fields. Tuition is subsidised for Defence-sponsored students. Civilian courses start ~AUD 35,000/year.
Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT)	TAFE/VET Recognised	Hospitality, IT, Construction, Aged Care	Lower entry barrier. Tuition from AUD 15,000/year. Ideal for vocational studies and transitioning to university. Offers hands-on industry training.
Charles Sturt University (Canberra Campus)	Top 30	Policing, Public Safety, IT	Flexible online & blended learning. Tuition ~AUD 25,000–30,000/year. Good for career changers & working professionals.

 

Why Use FindMyUni to Choose a Canberra University?

At FindMyUni, we simplify your study-abroad journey by helping you compare universities, apply to the right programs, and even switch courses or institutions if needed.

✔️ 100% free expert guidance for international students
✔️ Side-by-side comparison of admission criteria and scholarships
✔️ Support for student visa, transfers, and application paperwork
✔️ Honest reviews and career advice from real students

Ready to take the next step?

Compare universities, check scholarship eligibility, or speak to an expert – all in one place. Start your journey with FindMyUni today.

 

FAQs on Universities in Canberra Australia

What is the best university in Canberra?
The Australian National University (ANU) is widely regarded as the best in Canberra and one of the top-ranked universities in the world for research and academic excellence.

Why is Canberra best for international students?
Canberra offers a safe, multicultural environment, top-tier universities, and plenty of green spaces—plus it ranks highly for quality of life and graduate employability.

Is Canberra expensive for students?
While tuition is standard, living costs are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Students should budget around AUD 21,000–27,000 per year, depending on lifestyle.

What is the minimum wage in Canberra for international students?
As of 2025, the national minimum wage in Australia is AUD 24.10 per hour, and international students can legally work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.

Is Canberra a good place to study?
Yes, Canberra is a thriving student city with top institutions like ANU and UC, supportive policies for international students, and a strong focus on innovation and research.

What is the cost of living in Melbourne vs Canberra?
Canberra is generally cheaper than Melbourne, especially for rent and transport. On average, students spend AUD 400–600/week in Melbourne vs AUD 350–550/week in Canberra.

Is rent in Canberra expensive?
Rent in Canberra is more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, with shared accommodations costing around AUD 180–250 per week, depending on the suburb and housing type.

Which is the cheapest university in Canberra, Australia?
The University of Canberra (UC) is often considered the most affordable, offering lower tuition fees and a range of scholarships for domestic and international students.