Australian University Student Population: How Many Are There?

Australia is home to 44 universities, 39 of which are public and 5 are private. The largest university in Australia in terms of student numbers is Monash University, with over 60,000 students. The smallest university is Bond University, with a little over 6,000 students. The universities with the highest number of undergraduate students are Monash University, RMIT University, and Curtin University. The universities with the highest number of postgraduate students are the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, and the University of New South Wales.

University enrolment statistics

There are 44 universities in Australia, of which 39 are public and 5 are private. Monash University in Victoria is the largest university in Australia in terms of student numbers, with over 60,000 students. The second-largest is RMIT University, also in Victoria, with approximately 57,000 students, and the third-largest is the University of Sydney in New South Wales, with about 54,000 students. The smallest university in Australia is Bond University in Queensland, with a little over 6,000 students.

In terms of undergraduate student numbers, Monash University is again the largest, with over 46,000 undergraduate students, followed by RMIT University with more than 45,000, and Curtin University in Perth with approximately 36,000. The University of Melbourne has the highest number of postgraduate students, with over 26,000, followed by the University of Sydney with approximately 20,000, and the University of New South Wales with about 18,000.

It is important to note that many domestic and international students study in colleges or TAFEs in other areas of the higher education sector, including vocational education, English language programmes, or other diploma or degree-level studies. The Australian Government Department of Education and Training reports annually on the number of applications, offers, and acceptances to undergraduate university courses, including data on applications submitted directly to universities since 2010.

Domestic and international students

There are 44 universities in Australia, 39 of which are public and 5 are private. Monash University in Victoria is the largest university in Australia in terms of student numbers, with over 60,000 students. The University of Melbourne has the highest number of postgraduate students, with over 26,000, while Monash University has the highest number of undergraduate students, with over 46,000.

The Department of Education's students dataset provides enrolled student numbers and full-time equivalent load for all higher education providers, including a breakdown by institution, field of study, and various student demographics. This dataset includes international students, who are also counted within the monthly summary of international student commencement and enrolments data. The Department of Home Affairs also provides data on the number of student visas granted, which can be an indicator of future commencements.

It is important to note that many domestic and international students are enrolled in colleges or TAFEs (Technical and Further Education) in other areas of the higher education sector, including vocational education, English language studies, or other diploma or degree-level studies. These students are not included in the university enrolment numbers.

The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is used as a method of admission to Australian universities for students who have completed Australian state curricula. The ATAR indicates a student's overall position in relation to the student body across the state for that year. International Baccalaureate (IB) students are assigned a "Combined rank" by the Australasian Conference of Tertiary Admission Centres (ACTAC), which enables them to apply across Australia with confidence that their results are comparable to those of their peers.

University admission methods

Step 1: Choose your course and education provider

The first step is to decide on the course you want to study and the university you want to attend. Australia offers a wide range of degrees, from medicine and law to IT management, business administration, and creative arts. Consider your career aspirations and choose a university that aligns with your academic interests and goals. Research the universities that are renowned for your field of interest.

Step 2: Check admission requirements

Different universities in Australia have varying admission requirements. Make sure to research the specific requirements for your chosen university and course. In general, admissions are based on academic performance, English language proficiency, and sometimes, additional factors like a personal statement, interview, or portfolio.

Step 3: Prepare the necessary documents

Gather the required documents, including transcripts of your previous education, copies of your passport or ID, proof of English language proficiency, and the application form. You may also need to provide a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and proof of financial funds to support your studies. Start this process early, as it can be time-consuming, especially if you need to translate any documents into English.

Step 4: Submit your application

You can apply to Australian universities through an official external agent or directly through the university's website. Most universities use online application platforms, such as the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) or the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). Create an account, provide your personal details, and indicate your chosen programs. Remember to keep track of application deadlines, as missing them could mean missing out on your desired program.

Step 5: Apply for a student visa

Once you receive your letter of acceptance from the university, you can apply for an Australian student visa or Subclass 500 visa. Start this process as soon as possible, as it can take some time.

Step 6: Prepare for departure

After your visa is approved, it's time to get ready for your departure to Australia. Book your plane tickets, organise your Overseas Student Health Cover, and arrange your accommodation. Your chosen university will typically send you an admissions package with information to help you prepare for your studies in Australia.

International student visas and enrolments

International students are included in the Department of Education's annual students dataset. The Department also provides a rolling monthly summary of international student commencement and enrolments data, which is derived from the Provider Registration and International Students Management System (PRISMS) database. This database counts enrolments by students studying in Australia on a student visa.

The Department of Home Affairs also produces data on the number of student visas granted, which is often a leading indicator of future commencements.

International students on a student visa in Australia must comply with certain conditions. These include completing the program within the expected duration, maintaining satisfactory academic progress, notifying the university of any change of address or contact details, and maintaining enrolment in a registered course. Students are also permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight while their program is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.

In the year-to-date September 2024, there were 1,018,799 international student enrolments, a 16% increase compared to the same period in 2019 (pre-COVID-19). This growth in enrolments is most prominent in the VET sector, with a 42% increase since 2019. Enrolments in Higher Education have also increased by 13% in the same period.

Student survey results

The student survey results provide an insightful snapshot of the Australian university landscape. The responses offer a comprehensive view of student demographics, preferences, and experiences, shedding light on the diverse and dynamic nature of the country's higher education sector.

University Rankings by Student Population

Monash University in Victoria stands as the largest university in Australia by student numbers, boasting over 60,000 students. RMIT University, also in Victoria, follows closely with approximately 57,000 students, while the University of Sydney in New South Wales ranks third with about 54,000 students. At the other end of the spectrum, Bond University in Queensland is the smallest, with a little over 6,000 students.

Undergraduate and Postgraduate Numbers

When focusing on undergraduate enrolments, Monash University again leads the way with over 46,000 students, closely followed by RMIT University with more than 45,000. Curtin University in Perth secures third place with approximately 36,000 undergraduate students.

For postgraduate enrolments, the University of Melbourne takes the top spot with over 26,000 students, followed by the University of Sydney with 20,000, and the University of New South Wales with roughly 18,000.

Student Experience and Satisfaction

The Student Experience Survey (SES) delves into the experiences of undergraduate and postgraduate students, assessing five key aspects: skills development, learner engagement, teaching quality, student support, and learning resources. The SES provides valuable insights into the overall student experience, helping universities identify areas for improvement and enhance their offerings.

The Graduate Outcomes Survey (GOS) and its longitudinal counterpart (GOS-L) paint a picture of labour market outcomes, tracking graduates' employment status, starting salaries, and further activities. These surveys are instrumental in understanding the transition from university to the workforce, providing valuable data for career services and course development.

National and International Student Populations

While the survey results offer a comprehensive view, it's important to acknowledge that they represent a single point in time. The dynamic nature of the higher education sector means that student numbers fluctuate, and universities continuously adapt to changing demographics and educational needs.

Additionally, the surveys encompass both on-campus and off-campus students, capturing the diverse study modes that cater to varying student preferences and circumstances. With a strong international student presence in Australia, the survey data reflects a global perspective, enhancing the richness and diversity of the results.

Frequently asked questions