Top 7 Best Universities in Perth for Students in 2025

Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, is a hub for the best universities in Perth, attracting students from across the globe. The city is home to several well-regarded universities that collectively cater to thousands of students each year. Perth also has the lowest unemployment rate among Australian states at 3.7% and the city's labour force participation rate is at a record high of 67.1%, indicating strong engagement in the workforce. Perth holds 34th rank in terms of QS city rankings making it an ideal choice for the students and especially for individuals seeking universities in Perth for international students. In this article, we will guide you through the top universities in Perth, helping you decide which university to choose!

Top 7 Universities in Perth

Perth offers a vibrant educational topography with various options beyond its traditional universities. Known for its dynamic blend of technical colleges, vocational education providers, and specialty training institutions. Perth is also an ideal choice for the best short courses in Australia. Perth caters to a wide range of academic and professional aspirations. Below is the breakdown of the Top 7 Perth University list

1. Curtin University

Top Courses: Engineering, Education and Educational Research, Petroleum Engineering, Earth and Marine Sciences, Geophysics, Geology
Rankings: The QS World University Ranking is 174th globally, and the Times Higher Education World University Ranking is 251–300 globally.
Fees: 
1. Undergraduate (Graduate): Approximately AUD 30,000 - AUD 39,000 per year
2. Postgraduate Fees: Approximately AUD 31,000 - AUD 41,000 per year
Acceptance rate: 50%
Notable Alumni: Carrie Bickmore, Tim Winton, Frances O'Connor, Judy Davis

Curtin University is an Australian public research university established in 1966 (as the Western Australian Institute of Technology, which became Curtin University in 1987) located at Kent St, Bentley WA 6102. It is named after John Curtin the former Prime Minister of Australia from 1941 to 1945. It has a population of approximately 36,064 students out of which 39.7% are international students from across the world. One fascinating fact is that Curtin was the first university in Western Australia to adopt a technology park concept, combining academia and industry for cooperative innovation. Another fact that puts Curtin on the list of the best Uni in Perth is that 86.3% of Curtin graduates are employed full-time within six months of completing their course.

2. Edith Cowan University

Courses: Medical & Health Sciences, Engineering & Technology, Business & Law, Arts & Humanities
Rankings: The QS ranking is 516th globally and theTimes Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings is 351-400 globally
Fees:
1. Undergraduate (Graduate): Approximately AUD 25,000 - AUD 35,000 per year
2. Postgraduate Fees: Approximately AUD 26,000 - AUD 37,000 per year
Acceptance rate: 65 - 70%
Notable Alumni: Jessica Watson, Brett Lee, Andrew Forrest, Lisa Scaffidi

Edith Cowan University (ECU) was established in the year 1991 and is considered one of the best Universities in Perth. It has a student strength of 23,887 students, out of which 17.8% are International students, making it a top choice in universities in Perth for international students list. Edith Cowan University is located in Mount Lawley, Perth, Western Australia, ECU offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in areas such as education, health, business, engineering, arts, and more. 93% of ECU graduates find full-time employment within three years of completing their degree, with an average graduate salary of AUD 86,900, which is the highest among universities in Western Australia. ECU also makes it to the student satisfaction in the Australian Federal Government rankings (QILT) list, particularly for teaching quality and support as 81.8% of Edith Cowan University ECU students were satisfied with the overall quality of their educational experience.

3. Murdoch University

Courses: Business & Law, Medical & Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Arts & Humanities
Rankings: The QS World University Ranking is 436 globally and the Times Higher Education (THE) World Ranking is in the range of 401-500 range globally.
Fees:
1. Undergraduate (Graduate): AUD 24,000 - AUD 34,000 per year
2. Postgraduate Fees: Approximately AUD 25,000 - AUD 36,000 per year
Acceptance rate: 70 - 79%
Notable Alumni: John Butler, Penny Dimond, Professor Lyn Beazley, Simon Baker, Rove McManus

Murdoch University was founded in the year 1973, Murdoch University ranks within the top 10 in Australia for teaching quality in some disciplines, especially in the fields of law and social work. Murdoch serves over 12,655 students and maintains a strong global connection through its various programs and international partnerships. Out of 12,655 students, it has an international student population of 17.5% which makes this institution one of the best universities in Perth for international students. Its track record for employability is also very strong, with 85% of graduates getting employment within four months of completing their studies making it an ideal choice for students seeking universities in Perth for international students.

4. University of Notre Dame

Courses: Education, Theology & Philosophy, Business & Law, Arts & Humanities, Health & Nursing
Rankings: The QS World University Ranking is 316th globally and the U.S. News & World Report is 18th globally
Fees:
1. Undergraduate (Graduate): Approximately AUD 20,000 - AUD 30,000 per year
2. Postgraduate Fees: Approximately AUD 21,000 - AUD 32,000 per year
Acceptance rate: 16.5% 
Notable Alumni: Dr Peter Wark, Tim Cahill, John Howard, Cate Blanchett

University of Notre Dame was founded in the year 1989 and is located in Fremantle, Broome, Western Australia. It has a student population of student population of approximately 3,000 students, of this, about 25-30% are international students, with the majority coming from countries like China, India, and various parts of Southeast Asia. When it comes to its employment ratio it is notable as well, as 94.1% of graduates secure full-time employment shortly after graduation, Notre Dame University offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses as well. The university is ranked 2nd for the Western Australia, making it one of the best uni in Perth. The average graduate salary which one can expect is AUD 60,000–65,000 per year, depending on the field of study. Courses such as Nursing, Health Sciences, and Education tend to have higher starting salaries.

5. The University of Western Australia, Perth

Courses: Science & Environmental Studies, Engineering & Technology, Business & Law, Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
Rankings: The QS World University Ranking is 77th globally and the U.S. News & World Report is 91 globally
Acceptance Rate: 38%
Fees:
1. Undergraduate (Graduate): Approximately AUD 27,000 - AUD 34,000 per year
2. Postgraduate Fees: Approximately AUD 28,000 - AUD 35,000 per year
Notable Alumni: Maggie Beer, Lance Corporal Andrew Jones, Colin Barnett, Professor Peter Doherty

The University of Western Australia, Perth was founded in the year 1911, it is located in the Crawley, Perth, Western Australia. It has a student population of approximately 26,352 students out of which 20% are international students (5,207 international students). It consistently ranks in the top 10 universities in Australia making it one of the best unis in Perth, It’s employment rate is impressive as well, as 67% of the undergraduate students secure a full-time job within a span of 4 months and 82.3% of the postgraduate students ensures a full-time job very shortly after completing their course. While undergraduate degree holders can expect an average salary of AUD 71,000 per year.

6. Polytechnic West

Courses: Hospitality, Tourism, and Events, Community Services, Healthcare, Business and Finance
Rankings: According to Ranking Web of Universities it is ranked 28th in Australia
Fees:
1. Certificate and Diploma Courses: AUD 6,000 to AUD 15,000 per year
Acceptance Rate: 70–80%

Polytechnic West, now part of South Metropolitan TAFE following a partnership with Challenger Institute of Technology, is a leading vocational education and training provider in Perth, Western Australia. Although it has not made the university list, it is one of the prominent institutions available in Perth. The institution operates across several locations in the southern suburbs of Perth, including major campuses in Bentley, Carlisle, and Fremantle. It also offers student support services ranging from career counselling and job placement assistance to personal counselling and academic support. Ensuring that all students have the resources they need to succeed both during their studies and after graduation.

7. ECC College

Top Courses: Technology (Computing/IT), Communications and Creative Industries, Science (Health Studies), Business
Rankings: ECC is ranked #2 in teaching quality in the QILT survey
Fees:
1. Diploma Programs: AUD 20,000 to AUD 30,000 per year
2. Pre-Masters Programs: AUD 15,000 to AUD 25,000 per year
Acceptance rate: 40%

Edith Cowan College was established in 1994, it was first founded as the Perth Institute of Business and Technology. A significant change occurred in 2016 when Navitas and Edith Cowan University formed a joint venture, leading to the transformation of the Perth Institute of Business and Technology into what is now known as Edith Cowan College. ECC has more than 5% of the students from international backgrounds which is also reflected in their multicultural student body. ECC holds no barrier to the age of talented individuals as it accepts students under the age of 18 as well.

Student Accommodation in Perth

Amber offers a range of student accommodation Perth Australia options, designed to cater to various needs and budgets. The available properties provide a variety of room types, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, and studio rooms, ensuring flexibility for both solo and group living preferences. Accommodations come with comfortable beds, study desks, and ample storage. The amenities provided include high-speed Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and 24/7 security, With the convenience of nearby public transport links, grocery stores, and universities, ensuring a safe and convenient living experience. Here is a list of a few top properties in the Perth that you can explore:
1. Campus Perth
2. Murdoch University Village
‍3. Yugo Perth City

Perth is home to a range of world-class universities in Perth for international students, each offering unique opportunities for students. From Curtin University’s focus on engineering and business to UWA’s prestigious research programs, there is a university to suit every academic interest and career goal. Whether you are looking to study in a happening city with a booming economy or seeking an internationally recognized qualification, the best university in Perth Australia provides excellent pathways to success.