Best Universities In Sydney 2026: Courses, Rankings, Fees, And More

Sydney, a city on the eastern coast of Australia, is not just famous for its cultural history but also for the fact that it is home to the top universities in Australia. Most of them are ranked in the top 100 universities internationally. With over 60,000 international students studying in the city from 180 different nationalities, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), job vacancies are increasing by 3.6% every quarter, and the student visa enables every international student to work for 40 hours in two weeks, which makes Sydney the preferred destination for students seeking affordable, world-class education. When it comes to lifestyle, it is also ranked in the top 10 most livable cities in the world.

Note: To secure a student visa in 2026, the Australian Government requires proof of at least AU$29,710 for 12 months of living expenses, that is more from AU$24,505.

Top 7 Universities in Sydney

Sydney is home to several leading universities, each offering a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities. Whether you're interested in business, engineering, healthcare, or the arts, the top universities in Sydney for master's offer a broad spectrum of courses. In this section, we have listed the most recognized universities in the city, offering insights into their programs and opportunities for students. Amber offers a lot of great options for student housing in Sydney near the best universities in Sydney.

1. University of Sydney (USyd)

Rankings: QS World University - 25th, Times Higher Education World University -60th, US News & World Report Best Global Universities - 26th.
Fees:
Undergraduate: AUD 46,000 - AUD 60,000 per year.
Postgraduate Fees: AUD 45,000 - AUD 58,000 per year.
Acceptance rate: 30%.
Notable Alumni: Julia Gillard (former PM), Marie Bashir (Governor of NSW).
Top Courses: Business, Economics, Education and Social Work, Engineering and Computer Science.

The University of Sydney is among the best universities in Sydney. It was established in 1850 and is one of the best universities in Sydney in terms of teaching and research. It has a student strength of approximately 70,000 students, with around 45,000 undergraduate students and 25,000 postgraduate students. Additionally has an overseas strength of 40% in the student body, which ensures that they feel comfortable expressing themselves. The University of Sydney, as one of the top universities in Sydney for master's offers a variety of scholarships for Graduate, Postgraduate, and Research students. For example, the Judge J Ralph J Perdriau Practical Legal Training Scholarship for Redfern Legal Centre offers $20,000 to eligible students, and the Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR) Scholarship Program offers up to $40,000. 

2. University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)

Rankings: QS World University -19th, Times Higher Education World University- 71st, US News & World Report Best Global Universities - 45th.
Fees:
Undergraduate: AUD 44,000 - AUD 55,000 per year.
Postgraduate Fees: AUD 46,000 - AUD 56,000 per year.
Acceptance rate: 30%
Notable Alumni: Scott Morrison (former PM), Hugo Weaving (actor).
Top Courses: Law, Business & Management, Computer Science & Information Systems, Engineering

The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) was founded in 1949 and is one of the best universities in Sydney, known for its ranking in the QS world graduate employment ranking of 27th. With a student population of approximately 63,000 students, UNSW offers an academic community with around 45,000 undergraduate students and 18,000 postgraduate students. Approximately 40% of its student body comprises international students. UNSW offers a variety of scholarships, such as the UNSW International Scholarships for undergraduates and postgraduates, as well as the Scientia Scholarship. This scholarship is available to students who achieve an ATAR score (or equivalent) of 99.90 or above in an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate or equivalent qualification, making them eligible to receive $10,000 for the duration of the program. UNSW Sydney is one of the good universities in Sydney for students. 

3. University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

Rankings: QS World University -88th, Times Higher Education World University-123rd, US News & World Report Best Global Universities - 133rd.
Fees:
Undergraduate: AUD 42,000 - AUD 50,000 per year.
Postgraduate Fees: AUD 43,000 - AUD 52,000 per year.
Acceptance rate: 35%
Notable Alumni: Tim Soutphommasane (race discrimination commissioner).
Top Courses: Engineering, Information Technology, Design and Architecture, Business and Management

University of Technology Sydney (UTS), established in 1988, is ranked the No.1 young university in Australia, making it the best uni in Sydney. UTS is also ranked among the 100 Universities globally. With a student population of approximately 47,000 students, including 35,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 postgraduate students. The UTS offers scholarships like UTS International Scholarships, which offers up to 25% off tuition fees on all of courses, and the UTS Excellence Scholarship offers the benefit of $10,000 per year for the duration of the program. This university is one of the best universities in Sydney. 

4. Macquarie University

Rankings: QS World University -133, Times Higher Education World University- 178 , US News & World Report Best Global Universities - .203
Fees:
Undergraduate: AUD 38,000 - AUD 48,000 per year.
Postgraduate Fees: AUD 39,000 - AUD 49,000 per year.
Acceptance rate: 45%
Notable Alumni: Catherine Livingstone (business leader).
Top Courses: Law, Education, Psychology, Business, and Management

Macquarie University was established in the year 1964 and is one of the best university in Sydney Australia, known for its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and real-world learning. It has a global connection with 300+ companies, and it is ranked among the top 1% of universities in the world. With a student population of approximately 40,000 students, Macquarie University offers a dynamic academic community, including 30,000 undergraduate students and 10,000 postgraduate students. Around 40% of the student body is international, making it one of the best universities in Sydney options.

5. University of Western Sydney (WSU)

Rankings: QS World University - 375, Times Higher Education World University- 201-250, US News & World Report Best Global Universities - 394
Fees:
Undergraduate: AUD 30,000 - AUD 38,000 per year.
Postgraduate Fees: AUD 39,000 - AUD 49,000 per year.
Acceptance rate: 45%
Notable Alumni: Scott Farquhar (Atlassian co-founder).
Top Courses: Social Sciences, Business and Management, Education, Nursing and Health Sciences

Western Sydney University (WSU) opened its doors in the year 1989 and is one of the rapidly growing and best universities in Sydney. It has a student population of 48,000 students, including 36,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 postgraduate students. With 150 partnerships with major industries, it also comes under 2% of universities worldwide for research and development the university has a high graduate employment rate of approximately 85% making it one of the best university in Sydney for international students, it also provides financial support to the deserving students pursuing their dream, WSU offers $20 million in scholarships every year, which includes a generous range of University and donor-funded opportunities.

6. Australian Catholic University (ACU)

Rankings: QS World University - 601-650, Times Higher Education World University- 401-500, US News & World Report Best Global Universities - 601
Fees:
Undergraduate: AUD 28,000 - AUD 35,000 per year.
Postgraduate Fees: AUD 29,000 - AUD 36,000 per year.
Acceptance rate: 65%
Notable Alumni: Adam Goodes (AFL champion).
Top Courses: Theology and Philosophy, Arts and Humanities, Psychology, Nursing and Health Sciences, and Education

Australian Catholic University (ACU) was established in the year 1991 and is consistently considered one of the top universities in Sydney for masters. ACU is particularly known for its strong programs in education, health, and the humanities, focusing on both personal development and social responsibility. With a student population of 33,000 students, including 26,000 undergraduate students and 7,000 postgraduate students. Around 40% of the student body consists of international students, which shows its commitment to embracing diversity. ACU also provides scholarships for various study levels, for example, the ACU Accommodation Scholarship, which consists of a 20% reduction in the accommodation fee, and the ACU Centre for Liturgy Postgraduate Scholarship offers a Unit fee waiver.

7. University of Notre Dame Australia

Rankings: QS World University - Top 10 in Australia, Times Higher Education World University- 401-500, US News & World Report Best Global Universities - 601 -800
Fees:
Undergraduate: AUD 32,000 - AUD 40,000 per year.
Postgraduate Fees: AUD 33,000 - AUD 42,000 per year.
Acceptance rate: 55%
Notable Alumni: David Morrison (former Army Chief).
Top Courses: Medicine, Business, Law, Education, Nursing, and Health Sciences

The University of Notre Dame Australia (UNDA) was established in 1989 and is considered in the top universities in Sydney for masters list. This University has been serving students for the last 30 years. The University has always focused on instilling skills like critical thinking, enhancing collaboration among its students, and making it one of the best universities in Sydney. With a student population of 11,000 students, including 8,000 undergraduate students and 3,000 postgraduate students, around 40% of its student body seats are reserved for international students, making it one of the most popular choices for International students. Students can apply for the various types of scholarships available at the university, such as the Notre Dame International Master of Physiotherapy Scholarship, which offers a $7,500 annual fee reduction for the duration of the program. It stands out as one of the top universities in Sydney for masters. 

Student Accommodation Near Universities

It is essential to select the best student accommodation in Sydney for a pleasant start to your academic life. A wide range of housing options, including a private room, a shared apartment, or a studio apartment near your university, will be a perfect choice. However, it is not all easy as navigating through the off-campus housing without being familiar with the territory can get tricky. This is whereamber is of great help, amber equips the user with listings geared to major universities so you can locate affordable best student accommodation Sydney that meets your requirements, for example, properties likeScape Darling Square and Y Suites on Regent offer amenities such as parking, on-site laundry, gym and cinema, bike storage, wi-fi etc. with just at a walking distance from the city centre.

The top-ranked universities in Sydney not only involve studying, but they are starting points of careers and a place where one can achieve wonders in their life. Securing admission to one of the best universities in Sydney requires strong academic performance and dedication. With the right support, great opportunities for scholarship in Sydney Australia and including assistance in finding off-campus accommodation, students can make the most of their university experience. Best of luck on your academic journey in Sydney!

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