Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia

Overview

The Australian Catholic University (ACU) in Australia is among the most reputable institutions in the country and is a publicly run institution that has achieved much success in integrating academic quality with a strong sense of community involvement and morally responsible leadership. ACU was founded in 1991 and has developed to become a widely known higher education institution in Australia and Rome with a global campus.

ACU has health sciences, education, business, law, theology, arts and social sciences programs with a special emphasis on real-world learning and social impact. It is a good place to study because of its high inclusiveness and service-focused orientation, which makes it a destination of choice among students who are seeking a values-driven education that has a global orientation.

ACU has more than 35,000 students, 4,500 of whom are international students representing over 90 countries, that gives you an opportunity to Study in Australia and brings about diversity, innovation, and collaboration and you get an opportunity to study in one of the best universities of Australia. The openness of the university to industry, hospitals, NGOs, and international institutions also provides the students with exposure and practical experience.

Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia has been rated to be one of the top institutions of higher learning in terms of graduate employability, teaching excellence and student satisfaction, which enables its graduates to transform the world of local and global communities.

Highlights

  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Total International Students: 4,500+ from 90+ countries
  • Programs Offered: 200+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs
  • Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
  • Scholarships: Up to 50% tuition fee waivers
  • Placement Percentage: 93% graduate employability rate

Rankings

The Australian Catholic University (ACU) in Australia is reputed in terms of research, teaching, and community contribution excellence. Although the University is still relatively young, ACU is always among the best universities in Australia in terms of graduate success and international perspective.

Its emphasis on social responsibility, leadership, and ethics has made it to get a good reputation not only in the country but also internationally.

Ranking Agency Rank / Recognition
QS World University Rankings 2025 Top 2% of universities worldwide
Times Higher Education (THE) 2025 Top 250 globally for Teaching Quality
QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2024 Top 100 worldwide
QILT Student Experience Survey 2024 Top 10 for Student Satisfaction in Australia

Intakes

Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia indeed offers multiple intakes for learners throughout the year, providing resilience or flexibility for students to plan their studies in advance. Early application is indeed highly encouraged for visa and accommodation arrangements.

February Intake: The main intake, offering the widest selection of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

July Intake: Mid-year intake with many business, health, and education courses available.

November Intake: Limited intake for select postgraduate and professional programs.

Courses & Fees

Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia offers a vivid, comprehensive, and diverse range of programs designed and customised to prepare students for meaningful careers and stay relevant in dog-eat-dog world. Courses blend academic theory with hands-on experience or heuristic learning through internships, research projects, and community engagement.

Program Duration Tuition Fees (approx.)
Master of Business Administration (MBA) 1.5 – 2 Years AUD 35,000 – 38,000 per year
Master of Nursing 2 Years AUD 34,000 – 37,000 per year
Master of Education 2 Years AUD 33,000 – 36,000 per year
Master of Information Technology 2 Years AUD 34,000 – 37,000 per year
Bachelor of Business Administration 3 Years AUD 28,000 – 31,000 per year
Bachelor of Nursing 3 Years AUD 32,000 – 34,000 per year
Bachelor of Arts 3 Years AUD 27,000 – 30,000 per year

Cost of Studying at Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia

Studying at Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia offers international students an opportunity to access or channel high octane and world-class education at very pocket friendly price and competitive tuition rates. With campuses in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra, living costs may vary place to place, but overall expenses remain manageable with proper budgeting and good financial decisions.

Expense Type Estimated Cost
Postgraduate Tuition Fees AUD 33,000 – 38,000 per year
Undergraduate Tuition Fees AUD 27,000 – 34,000 per year
Accommodation AUD 1,200 – 1,800 per month (≈ AUD 14,000 – 21,000 per year)
Food & Groceries AUD 400 – 700 per month (≈ AUD 5,000 – 8,000 per year)
Transport AUD 150 – 250 per month (≈ AUD 1,800 – 3,000 per year)
General Expenses AUD 300 – 500 per month (≈ AUD 3,600 – 6,000 per year)

Scholarships

Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia has a number of merit-based and need-based scholarships to study in Australia to assist international students in realizing their academic ambitions. Such scholarships reward excellent academic achievement, community service and leadership.

Scholarship Value / Waiver Details
ACU International Student Scholarship Up to 50% tuition waiver Awarded to academically excellent students
Global Excellence Scholarship AUD 5,000 – 10,000 For high-achieving new international students
Equity and Inclusion Bursary Up to 30% tuition waiver For students with financial need or special circumstances
Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship Full tuition + stipend For postgraduate research candidates
Alumni Advantage Scholarship 10% tuition discount For ACU graduates continuing postgraduate studies

Admissions

Admissions procedure in Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia is simple and accommodating to foreign students. Specific counsellors will help in choosing courses, visa application and documentation.

Masters
  • Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum GPA of 2.7 or equivalent.
  • English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) / TOEFL iBT 90 / PTE Academic 58+.
  • Documents: Academic transcripts, CV, English test results, passport, statement of purpose, and references.
Bachelors
  • Requirements: Completion of Year 12 or equivalent qualification.
  • English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 80 / PTE Academic 50+.
  • Documents: Transcripts, passport copy, English test results, and a personal statement.

Accommodation

Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia provides international students or inquisitive learners from different walks of life with safe, sound, inclusive, elite, and comfortable accommodation options across all major campuses. This makes their stay memorable and super comfortable

On-Campus Housing

ACU offers ultra-modern, well maintained and highly organised student residences with well equipped, posh, and furnished rooms, study areas, kitchens, and recreational spaces. Utilities, Wi-Fi, and 24/7 security are also included, fostering a strong sense of community and convenience under one roof itself. 

Off-Campus Accommodation

Students also have an option to choose private rentals, shared apartments with fellow classmates or batch mates, or homestays. Rent typically ranges from AUD 1,200 – 1,800 per month, depending on city and housing type.

Placements

Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia focuses on employability and impact on the community. The university has 93 percent graduate employability rate, which means that students acquire working experience through an internships, a placement program, and volunteering programs.

The Career Development Service at ACU assists students in job search and preparation of interviews as well as career planning. The university enjoys close relationships with healthcare, education, business and non-profit making organizations, which have an upper hand on the graduates.

Top Recruiters

  • Deloitte Australia
  • Catholic Health Australia
  • PwC Australia
  • Westpac
  • Australian Red Cross
  • St. Vincent’s Health Network
  • Accenture
  • NSW Department of Education
  • UnitingCare Australia
  • EY (Ernst & Young)

Student Essential Services

Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia offers all types of student services, which promote academic success, personal wellbeing, and professional development. The international students have special services available on each campus.

Student Affairs & Support: The Student Affairs department helps in the organization of orientation, peer mentoring, and cultural integration programs. They also control wellbeing services and campus engagement activities in order to make students feel at home.

Student Success Centre: This centre provides one-on-one tutoring, writing and study workshops and time management. It also ensures that students receive uninterrupted academic assistance during their studies.

Careers & Internships: The Career Development Office at ACU also collaborates with employers to provide career fairs, networking sessions and internships. Advisors will also help students to create professional portfolios and LinkedIn profiles.

Counselling & Accessibility: Professional counsellors make confidentially available sessions to help students in making their mental and emotional well-being. The accessibility advisors facilitate learning to students with disabilities or special needs.

Health & Safety: All the campuses are covered by healthcare support and insurance services, as well as by emergency medical services. Wellness programs encourage fitness and awareness of mental health among the students.

Clubs & Recreation: ACU promotes sporting, arts and cultural club activities among students. Social events and recreational facilities promote leadership and cross-cultural friendship.

Learning Resources: The students enjoy the services of well-equipped libraries, computer labs, e-learning. Their learning experience is improved with access to academic journals and research databases.

Visa & Housing Assistance: The international student office helps in visa applications, renewal of visas and accommodation. During the orientation, advice on local legislation and how to live in Australia is given.

Events & Cultural Activities: ACU holds multicultural events, volunteer programs and community outreach programs. These are experiences that add value to the lives of students and encourage service and citizenship around the world.

Location of Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia

Frequently Asked Questions Section

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply for admission at Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia?

Applications are open for February, July, and November intakes. It’s best to apply at least 3–6 months in advance for visa processing.

What are the admission requirements at Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia?

Undergraduates need a recognized high school qualification, and postgraduates require a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.7 or higher.

Which English proficiency tests are accepted at Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia?

ACU accepts IELTS, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic. IELTS 6.0 is required for undergraduate, and 6.5 for postgraduate programs.

Does Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia provide accommodation?

Yes, ACU offers both on-campus residences and support for students seeking off-campus rentals near each campus.

Are scholarships available at Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia?

Yes, ACU offers scholarships up to 50% tuition waivers for academic excellence, financial need, and research excellence.

What kind of career support does Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia offer?

ACU provides internship programs, career mentoring, job search guidance, and strong employer connections across industries.

Why should international students choose the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Australia?

International students choose ACU for its global rankings, inclusive community, top-tier education, and focus on social responsibility.

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