Adelaide University Guide 2026: Courses, Ranking, Admissions & More!
"Study goals, Adelaide edition!"
Table of Content
- About Adelaide University
- Adelaide University Rankings
- Adelaide University Acceptance Rate
- Adelaide University Courses
- Adelaide University Online Courses
- Adelaide University Tuition Fees
- Adelaide University Admission Process (2026 Intake)
- 1) When Applications Open + Key Deadlines (Next Admissions Cycle)
- 2) Adelaide University Application Fees
- 3) Step-by-Step Adelaide University Admissions Process (International Students)
- 4) International Student Requirements
- 5) Documents Required (Checklist)
- Adelaide University Scholarships
- Find the Best Student Accommodation near Adelaide University with Amber
- Conclusion: Why Study at Adelaide University?
Adelaide University is one of the newest and most talked-about universities in Australia. From 2026, it will officially become a single university formed through the merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia (UniSA). This means students will get the combined benefits of two well-known institutions, strong academics, better research opportunities, and a wider choice of courses and campuses.
If you’re planning to study in Australia, Adelaide University can be a great option, especially for international students looking for quality education in a student-friendly city. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including rankings, admission process, tuition fees, scholarships, and how to find student accommodation in South Australia near the university.
About Adelaide University
Adelaide University (formed through the merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia) is set to operate as a single institution from 2026 officially. The University of Adelaide (one of Australia’s oldest and most respected institutions) was originally established in 1874 and has long been known for strong academics, research, and global graduate outcomes. In terms of student population, the University of Adelaide had around 30,279 students (2023). The new merged Adelaide University is projected to have ~70,000 students at launch.
| Campus | Location (Area) | Type / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adelaide University North Terrace Campus | Adelaide CBD (North Terrace precinct) | Main city campus (includes eastern & western precincts) |
| Magill Campus | Magill (Eastern suburbs of Adelaide) | Metropolitan campus |
| Mawson Lakes Campus | Mawson Lakes (Northern Adelaide) | Metropolitan campus (major STEM + tech focus) |
| Adelaide University Waite Campus | Urrbrae (Inner South Adelaide) | Agriculture, wine, plant science + research precinct |
| Roseworthy Campus | Roseworthy (regional, north of Adelaide) | Animal & veterinary science + agriculture |
| Whyalla Campus | Whyalla (Regional South Australia) | Regional campus |
| Mount Gambier Campus | Mount Gambier (Limestone Coast region) | Regional campus |
Adelaide University Rankings
Adelaide University has debuted strongly in global rankings, making it one of Australia’s top-performing new institutions.
| Ranking Body | Ranking Category | Adelaide University Rank |
|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings 2026 | Global University Ranking | #=82 worldwide |
| QS Sustainability Ranking 2026 | Sustainability Ranking | #89 worldwide |
| Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026 | Global University Ranking | #133 worldwide |
Note: Since the university is built on the combined academic strengths of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, Adelaide University’s rankings reflect a strong base of teaching quality, research reputation, and graduate employability
Adelaide University Acceptance Rate
Since Adelaide University officially began operations in 2026, it does not yet have a long-standing, publicly confirmed, standalone acceptance rate like older institutions. However, because it is built from the merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia (UniSA), students can use these two institutions as realistic reference points for admission competitiveness.
Estimated Adelaide University acceptance rate (reference)
- University of Adelaide: acceptance rate commonly reported around ~70–75%
- University of South Australia (UniSA): acceptance rate commonly reported around ~65%
Adelaide University is expected to be moderately selective overall, meaning admissions are achievable for most students who meet the academic entry requirements, English language requirements (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL), and course prerequisites.
Pro tip: Adelaide University acceptance rate can vary massively by course; popular programs like Engineering, Computer Science, Business, and Health-related courses usually have higher competition compared to general programs.
Adelaide University Courses
Adelaide University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across major study areas like business, engineering, health, arts, IT, media, and law. Students can also choose from flexible options like microcredentials, professional certificates, and short courses, depending on their career goals.
| UG Course Name | Quick Insight |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Commerce | Strong business base for corporate careers |
| Bachelor of Business | Management + leadership-focused degree |
| Bachelor of Finance | Best for banking and investment careers |
| Bachelor of Economics | Great for policy and data-based roles |
| Bachelor of Computer Science | Ideal for software development careers |
| Bachelor of Information Technology | Practical IT skills for job-ready roles |
| Bachelor of Data Science / Analytics | High-demand degree across industries |
| Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence | Future-focused AI + machine learning skills |
| Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) | Technical degree with strong job outcomes |
| Bachelor of Nursing | Placement-based and in-demand in Australia |
| Bachelor of Psychology | Useful for HR and health-related pathways |
| Bachelor of Media and Communication | Best for marketing, PR, and content careers |
| PG Course Name | Quick Insight |
|---|---|
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | Leadership + strategy for career growth |
| Master of Management | Great for graduates entering management roles |
| Master of Project Management | In-demand across IT, business and construction |
| Master of Finance | Advanced finance pathway for high-growth roles |
| Master of Data Science | Career switch option into analytics/ML |
| Master of Information Technology | Strong option for IT and tech careers |
| Master of Cyber Security | Popular degree with global job demand |
| Master of Artificial Intelligence | Advanced AI skills for tech careers |
| Master of Engineering | Best for specialisation in engineering fields |
| Master of Public Health (MPH) | Strong for healthcare + public policy roles |
Adelaide University Online Courses
If you want flexibility (especially as an international student juggling work + study), Adelaide University offers 100% online degrees and programs where you can study from anywhere, with multiple start dates during the year.
1. 100% Online Undergraduate Degrees – study fully online with flexible learning.
2. 100% Online Postgraduate Degrees – popular for working professionals and career switchers.
3. Online Business Courses (online programs available across business streams).
4. Online Computer Science Programs – ideal for tech-focused careers.
5. Online Psychology Programs – suitable for students targeting psychology pathways.
6. UniStart (100% Online) – a fee-free 6-month program to prepare students for university study.
7. Online Short Courses (PACE) – flexible short courses for upskilling.
8. MOOCs (Free Online Courses / AdelaideX style) – open learning courses you can take for free (optional certificate).
Adelaide University Tuition Fees
Adelaide University tuition fees depend on the course, study level (undergraduate/postgraduate), and total units studied. Fees are usually shown as an annual estimate (full-time load) and may increase each year.
| Study Level | Estimated Tuition Fees (per year) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) | AUD $35,000 – $55,000/year | Depends on program (arts vs STEM vs health) |
| Postgraduate Coursework (Master’s) | AUD $35,000 – $60,000/year | Business, IT & Engineering are generally higher |
Quick note for students: High-demand programs like Engineering, Computer Science, Health & Medicine are usually on the higher end of the fee range.
How Adelaide University Calculates Fees
- Fees are generally calculated based on units studied per year
- Full-time study commonly equals 48 units per year
Total fees = cost per unit × number of units
Adelaide University Admission Process (2026 Intake)
Adelaide University (launching in January 2026) has a simple application process for both domestic and international students. Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate course, the process is mostly online, and your admission depends on meeting academic + English language requirements.
1) When Applications Open + Key Deadlines (Next Admissions Cycle)
For the next intake (2027 entry), applications will reopen in August 2026 (SATAC admissions cycle usually opens in early August each year).
For example, TAFE SA’s admissions cycle clearly mentions “2027 applications open 3rd August 2026”, which matches the SATAC yearly timeline pattern.
| Event | 2026 Date / Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications open (for 2027 entry) | Early August 2026 (around 3 Aug 2026) |
| Postgraduate offer rounds begin (2027 cycle) | From June 2026 onwards |
| Main offer rounds | Will be released in 2027 (depending on SATAC offer schedule) |
Note: Some high-demand courses fill quickly, so applying as early as August 2026 gives the best chance of securing your preferred program.
2) Adelaide University Application Fees
For international students, Adelaide University charges a non-refundable application fee of AUD $150 per application.
3) Step-by-Step Adelaide University Admissions Process (International Students)
Here’s the usual process:
1. Choose your course (UG or PG coursework)
2. Check eligibility & entry requirements for the program
3. Prepare documents (transcripts, passport, English score, etc.)
4. Apply online via Adelaide University Online Application System
5. Pay the application fee
6. Receive: Offer letter (if eligible). Accept the offer and meet any conditions
7. Get your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Australian student visa
8. Adelaide University confirms international applications are submitted through its Online Application System.
4) International Student Requirements
A) Academic Requirements
Academic eligibility depends on the country curriculum (CBSE/ISC/IB/A-Levels, etc), chosen course level (UG/PG) and course prerequisites (e.g., maths for engineering). You’ll need certified academic transcripts (and certified translations if not in English).
B) English Language Requirements (Exam Scores)
Most international applicants must submit proof of English proficiency through any one of these:
| English Test | Common Minimum Score (Typical) |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 overall (no band < 6.0) |
| TOEFL iBT | 79–90 (varies by course) |
| PTE Academic | 58–64 (varies by course) |
Some courses (like teaching, nursing, and health) may require higher English scores.
5) Documents Required (Checklist)
Adelaide University requires these documents for international applications:
1. Certified academic transcripts (secondary + tertiary if applicable)
2. Passport copy
3. Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
4. Additional documents (if needed): CV/portfolio, work experience letters, SOP, etc.
Adelaide University Scholarships
Adelaide University offers a wide range of scholarships for both domestic and international students, including merit-based tuition fee reductions, region-specific awards, and research scholarships. The best part? For many scholarships, students are automatically considered when they apply for an eligible degree.
| Scholarship Name | Who it’s for | Benefit / Value |
|---|---|---|
| Adelaide Academic Excellence Scholarship (50%) | High-performing international students (UG/PG coursework) | 50% tuition fee reduction (limited/competitive) |
| Adelaide Merit Scholarship (15%) | International students (UG/PG coursework) | 15% tuition fee reduction |
| Adelaide Launch Your Future: ASEAN Scholarship (50%) | Eligible ASEAN students | 50% tuition fee reduction (applications required) |
| Research Scholarships | Research students (HDR/PhD/MPhil) | Support for fees/living expenses/research costs |
How to Apply
- Most scholarships: No separate form needed, you’ll be auto-assessed during your admission application.
- Some scholarships (like ASEAN) require an additional scholarship application form with deadlines.
Pro Tip for International Students
To maximise your scholarship chances:
1. Apply early
2. Keep your academic scores strong (many are merit-based)
3. Submit English test scores (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL) with your application
Find the Best Student Accommodation near Adelaide University with Amber
Finding student accommodation near Adelaide University can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re an international student moving to Australia for the first time. The good news? With amber, you can explore a wide range of verified housing options close to Adelaide University campuses, including the City (Adelaide University North Terrace campus), Magill, and Mawson Lakes. Here are some of the best options for student accommodation in Adelaide:
1. Scape Waymouth
2. UniLodge Metro Adelaide
3. Dwell East End Adelaide
4. Scape Adelaide Central
5. Yugo Adelaide City
Conclusion: Why Study at Adelaide University?
Choosing Adelaide University means studying at a globally recognised institution that brings together the strengths of two of the best universities in Australia, the University of Adelaide and UniSA, into one modern, future-ready university from 2026. The university has a strong focus on employability and real-world learning, with industry-linked programs, practical learning modules, and pathways designed to help students build a global career after graduation.
From the Adelaide City Campus (North Terrace) to major hubs like Mawson Lakes and Magill, students have access to modern learning spaces, labs, libraries, and student services across South Australia. With a large international student community and strong student support services, Adelaide University is a great option if you're moving to Australia for the first time. Students can also access scholarships such as merit-based tuition reductions and excellence awards.
Adelaide is one of Australia’s most student-friendly cities, known for being safer and more affordable than Sydney/Melbourne, and easy to live in as an international student (good public transport + strong student vibe).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Adelaide Uni merging?
The University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia (UniSA) are merging to form Adelaide University to create a bigger, stronger university with improved global competitiveness, research funding potential, and long-term sustainability. The merger is also positioned as a way to deliver “quality at scale” and boost South Australia’s education and innovation ecosystem.
Are the University of Adelaide and Adelaide University the same?
Not exactly.
University of Adelaide = the existing university (founded 1874).
Adelaide University = the new merged university brand (Uni of Adelaide + UniSA), operating as a single institution from 2026.
So they are connected, but not the same entity.
What will happen to the University of Adelaide?
The University of Adelaide will transition into Adelaide University. Existing students will continue their studies during the changeover, with systems and learning platforms moving under the new university structure. Officially, the former institutions are expected to close during the transition period (with closure planned by the end of March 2026 in the legislative/structural process).
Is Flinders or Adelaide Uni better?
It depends on your course + priorities. University of Adelaide / Adelaide University is usually stronger for global ranking reputation, research intensity, and traditional academic pathways. Flinders University is often a strong pick for health sciences, student support, and practical learning experiences, and performs well in research quality in several areas.
Is RMIT better than Adelaide University?
They are strong in different ways: RMIT is widely known for technology, engineering, design, architecture, media, and strong industry links, especially in Melbourne. Adelaide University is expected to be stronger in research reputation, broader academic disciplines, and South Australia-based innovation networks. So if your degree is in design/tech/industry-linked programs, RMIT may be better. If you want a top research-led university experience, Adelaide University could be a better fit.