What Makes Australian Catholic University Special?
Australian Catholic University stands as a beacon of educational excellence, combining academic rigour with a commitment to social justice and community impact. ACU is a young university making a significant impact. Ranked in the top 10 Catholic universities, we're also a leader in employability with 95 per cent of our graduates employed.
A University Built on Purpose and Values
An ACU education is grounded in the Catholic understanding of faith and reason working together in the pursuit of knowledge, promotion of human dignity, and advancement of the common good. We aim to transform lives and communities.
What sets ACU apart isn't just its Catholic heritage—it's the university's commitment to practical, service-orientated education. This is a university of service -- so much so that it is built into the curricula. All ACU courses offer work placements, internships or volunteering opportunities.
Impressive Global Rankings and Recognition
Australian Catholic University is one of the top public universities in Melbourne, Australia. It is ranked #851-900 in QS World University Rankings 2026. The university truly shines in specific areas:
- Employment Success: Graduate Outcomes Survey -- Longitudinal 2023, overall employment for domestic undergraduate students and domestic postgraduate coursework students shows exceptional graduate employment rates
- Catholic University Leadership: Based on International Federation of Catholic Universities members ranked on Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, ACU ranks amongst the top Catholic institutions globally
- National Recognition: In the Australian Financial Review Best Universities Ranking 2024, the university was ranked #26 amongst Australian universities
Campus Locations: Study Where Life Happens
ACU offers students flexibility with multiple campus locations across Australia and internationally. Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a public university in Australia. It has seven Australian campuses and also maintains a campus in Rome.
Australian Campuses
Sydney Region:
- Strathfield Campus - The historic heart of ACU
- North Sydney Campus - Modern facilities in Sydney's business district
- Blacktown Campus - Growing community in Western Sydney
Other Major Cities:
- Melbourne Campus - In Australia's cultural capital
- Brisbane Campus - Queensland's vibrant educational hub
- Canberra Campus - Near the nation's capital
- Ballarat Campus - Historic regional centre
International Opportunities
Rome Campus - Unique study abroad experience in Italy's eternal city
Each campus maintains the ACU spirit whilst offering unique local advantages. The Australian Catholic University Sydney campus is situated in the heart of Sydney and is surrounded by the city's major business districts. It's just a few minutes away from Sydney Harbour bridge.
Academic Programmes: Education That Transforms
ACU offers comprehensive educational pathways designed to create impactful graduates across multiple disciplines.
Undergraduate Programmes
Popular Undergraduate Disciplines:
- Education and Teaching
- Health Sciences (Nursing, Paramedicine)
- Business and Commerce
- Social Work and Human Services
- Information Technology
- Arts and Creative Industries
Unique Programme Features: Students are challenged to look beyond the classroom, solve real-world problems, develop their own search for meaning and cultivate strong professional ethics. They are invited to stand up for people in need and causes that matter.
Postgraduate Excellence
ACU's postgraduate programmes combine advanced academic learning with practical application. Research opportunities span multiple institutes and centres focused on addressing real-world challenges.
Postgraduate Specialisations:
- Master of Teaching (Primary/Secondary)
- Master of Social Work
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Information Technology
- Master of Nursing Practice
- Master of Physiotherapy
Research and Innovation
High-impact research -- with social, cultural and economic benefits -- is core to our institution. Our research and enterprise activities develop innovative solutions to issues impacting human dignity and the common good.
Step-by-Step Application Process: Your Journey to ACU
Phase 1: Planning and Preparation (3-6 Months Before)
1. Course Research and Selection Browse our list of undergraduate courses that are open to international applicants. You can browse by course type, subject or study area.
2. Entry Requirements Assessment You must have the equivalent of an Australian Year 12 Certificate for most undergraduate courses. You can check if we recognise your sixth form qualifications by downloading and viewing the following documents for diplomas and bachelor degrees.
3. English Proficiency Preparation English is not your first language you have not undertaken Year 12 study or higher in English and in an approved English-speaking country. You can prove your English proficiency by providing us with evidence of your previous studies or qualifications, or by achieving a certain score in a relevant English language test.
Phase 2: Application Submission (2-4 Months Before)
4. Document Preparation You will need to gather certified copies of all the necessary documents for your application. These documents include: academic qualifications (transcripts and completion certificates)
Required Documents:
- Certified academic transcripts
- English proficiency test results
- Passport copy (international students)
- Statement of Purpose
- Reference letters
- Portfolio (for creative courses)
5. Application Submission Methods When you're ready to apply, you can make your ACU application through any of the following methods
Domestic Students:
- Through Tertiary Admissions Centres (TACs)
- Queensland students: QTAC
- NSW/ACT students: UAC
- Victorian students: VTAC
International Students:
- Direct application to ACU
- Through authorised education agents
Phase 3: Post-Application Process (1-2 Months)
6. Application Review and Response If your application is successful, we'll send you an electronic Letter of Offer, normally within 1-2 weeks.
7. Offer Acceptance and Enrolment Once you've paid any fees required and returned your completed acceptance letter we'll send you an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE). This will allow you to apply for a Student Visa.
8. Visa Application (International Students) Most international students studying in Australia require a student visa. For courses that last for 3 months or less, you do not require a student visa and the University will not issue you with a Confirmation of Enrolment.
Understanding ACU's Fee Structure
International Student Fees
Our international tuition fees are based on the number of units you study each semester and include: Study skills assistance. An average study load is four units per semester (40 credit points).
Key Fee Benefits: We know unexpected fee increases are unwelcome. That's why our international fees are set for the entire minimum duration of your course.
2025 Fee Schedule: Download 2025 international fees schedule (PDF, 47KB) - Available on ACU's website for detailed programme-specific costs.
What's Included in Tuition:
- All core academic instruction
- Library and digital resources
- Student support services
- Career guidance and placement assistance
- Campus facilities access
Additional Costs to Consider: Please note, international tuition fees do not include: Compulsory overseas student health insurance.
Financial Support Options
Scholarships Available: Take a moment to see if you're eligible to apply for one or more of our scholarships for international students, including the ACU International Student Scholarship. There is no limit to the number of scholarships you can apply for - just make sure they're open to international students.
Financial Assistance: Some financial assistance may be available to international students from Canada, India and the United States (including US veterans).
Academic Calendar and Important Dates
Semester Structure
For most programmes, the academic year at ACU is divided into two semesters, with summer and winter terms in between. The first semester runs from March to June and the second semester from August to November, including mid-semester vacation and examination weeks.
Key Academic Periods:
- Semester 1: March - June
- Mid-year Break: June - July
- Semester 2: August - November
- Summer Term: November - February
- Winter Term: June - July
Conclusion
Australian Catholic University represents more than just academic excellence—it's a community committed to developing graduates who make a positive difference in the world. With its strong employment outcomes, values-based education, and comprehensive support systems, ACU provides an ideal environment for students seeking both personal growth and professional success.
Don't just choose a university—choose a community that will challenge you to grow, support you to succeed, and inspire you to make a difference. Your journey at Australian Catholic University starts with a single application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ACU only for Catholic students?
While having a religious affiliation is not a criterion for admission, ACU identifies as a Roman Catholic university with a Catholic core curriculum and religious extracurricular activities outside of academic studies. The university welcomes students of all backgrounds and beliefs.
What makes ACU different from other Australian universities?
ACU's unique combination of academic excellence, service-learning approach, and values-based education sets it apart. All ACU courses offer work placements, internships or volunteering opportunities, ensuring graduates have practical experience alongside their qualifications.
How competitive is admission to ACU?
Entry requirements vary by programme, but ACU maintains accessible pathways for qualified students. It's OK if your selection rank isn't high enough to gain entry to your chosen course. There are many ways for you to study with us.
Can international students work whilst studying at ACU?
Yes, international students on student visas can work under specific conditions. ACU also provides extensive support for finding employment opportunities both during and after studies.
What support does ACU provide for international students?
Contact our international student support team if you have any questions about your application to study at ACU. We can also answer your enquiries about arriving, living and studying in Australia.
