The Australian National University (ANU) is one of the best in Australia. It ranks amongst the top universities globally, with many study opportunities for both domestic and international students. It offers students a wide variety of majors and minor combinations, top-notch research facilities, and expert staff. In this article, after due research, we have provided you with all there is to know about the Australian National University, from admission requirements to frequently asked questions and everything in between.
About The University
The Australian National University is one of the best in the world, with world-class infrastructure and expert teachers. It was founded in 1946 by the Australian government and has since graduated people into all fields of life, from politicians, business leaders and artists. In addition to these, the institution is unique for its research-driven environment where students can conduct and excel at impactful research programs that improve human existence.
The ANU campus sits on approximately 145 hectares, within walking distance from the heart of the city. This puts students at the heart of the political and administrative centre of the country, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Canberra is not overly populated as it brags of having one of the lowest crime rates in mainland Australia. This provides the perfect study environment, allowing students to learn in a relaxed and safe atmosphere. The city is also home to several reputable institutions such as the National Gallery and the National Museum.
Being a member of The International Alliance of Research Universities, ANU gives students and staff the ability to thrive in a competitive academic climate where they can contribute, collaborate and exchange ideas with other member universities. Their IARU membership unites them with other universities with the same commitment to raising future leaders by encouraging internships, conferences and joint development programs. This partnership is also beneficial for business and community relationships.
More than 20% of the ANU student population lives on campus. The institution guarantees accommodation to all new undergraduate students in more than 12 residence halls. Students living in these residence halls are fully catered for with study rooms, laundry facilities and outdoor areas for their comfort and relaxation. Student accommodation arrangements allow students to form close bonds with friends from all parts of the world, making for a harmonious all-inclusive study environment. Students also benefit from health care, counselling, disability support and many other centres providing the best academic and social life support.
The Australian national university offers a host degree program with the option to have double degree programs and the chance to customize our dream degree. The institution has produced some of the best results with four Nobel laureates from the ANU College of science.
Why Study At the Australian National University
From its picturesque campus amazing location to its world-class learning infrastructures, there is a lot to love about the Australian National University. ANU offers students a talented and diverse community of great thinkers worldwide. Below, we explore some of the reasons why you should study here.
- Learn from experts
One of the reasons to study at this world-class institution is the opportunity to learn from trained professionals and experts. ANU teachers are leaders in their respective fields, giving you the chance to create connections with people that have the chance to build your future.
- Study a flexible double degree
Studying at ANU allows you to choose from 50 single degrees and the opportunity to have 750 double degree combination options. Their flexible design gives you the chance to have a fully customizable dream degree.
- Live in Australia’s capital city.
Studying at ANU positions you at the heart of Australia’s capital city – Canberra. The city is one of Australia’s most beautiful and livable cities, with restaurants, gyms, libraries, and cycling paths at your doorstep.
- Enjoy the ANU experience.
Enjoy small classes with the most qualified staff, world-class international student exchange programs, and research facilities rated at world standard. Also, enjoy internships with top companies worldwide and a vibrant cultural scene. You can only enjoy the ANU experience ANU.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions to all Australian National University study programs are highly competitive. You need to meet the admissions requirements in any of the following categories to gain a spot in the university. The categories for admissions range from undergraduate to honours programs. Some courses may have additional requirements you need to meet, such as portfolio, audition or an interview.
- Undergraduate applicants
- Applicants with year 12
Undergraduate admissions are based on ATAR or its equivalent. The Australian year 12 qualification also applies in this situation. You will also need a course prerequisite of mathematics for some of the courses and meet the co-curricular or service requirements. The year 12 applicant will be able to receive offers from a program even if their ATAR is low.
- Applicants with higher education study
For students who completed at least a year of studies at a higher institution, their results from that year will be considered during admissions. ANU will also consider qualifications from approved institutions when accessing a student’s eligibility. These include:
Successful completion of one-year course content for a bachelor program
Successful completion of Australian Qualification Framework level 5 or higher (this does not apply to law applications)
- Applicants with vocational education and training study
If you hold a diploma in training that the university considers relevant to the course you are applying for, the diploma would be considered part of your application. Your qualifications should also include an AQF level 5 or higher. Depending on the course you are applying for, you may be required to present a portfolio or be present for an interview.
- Applicants with work and life experience (includes students who left secondary education more than two years ago)
Students applying for the mature age entry would have to be above 21 years old and have completed any of the following courses within the past two years of the application. You may also be considered for admission based on your work experience.
- Open foundation course offered by the University of New castle
- Certificate IV in tertiary preparation offered at an NSW TAFE institute
- University preparation program (UPP) offered at UNSW Australia
- Limited ATAR (NSW HSC).
- Applicants with overseas qualifications
SAT and CAT alone will not be accepted for admissions into ANU. Check the university’s website for secondary qualifications that are accepted. Overseas applicants must attach an English language proficiency exam result alongside a secondary qualification. You must include a copy of your academic transcript.
- Postgraduate applicants
- General requirements
For postgraduate applicants, a recognized bachelor degree is required. International students from countries where English is not the language of instruction would have to prove English language proficiency.
How to Apply (Domestic and International Students)
The Australian National University offers students a wide variety of study options and course combinations. They also promise students a straightforward application process. The application for undergraduate, postgraduate and honours programs may differ slightly in terms of requirements. The process may also slightly vary per course, but the general process is the same. Outlined below is the general application process for the Australian National University for both domestic and international students.
General process
- Step 1: Check the program requirements
The Australian national university offers students a wide variety of courses to choose from. You can easily find all the courses available by using the “ANU program for you” option on their website. The site allows you to filter the searches by area of interest and level. Once you have narrowed down what you want to study, click on the course to learn the course content, admission requirements, application deadlines and potential career options. Check whether or not the course you have chosen has inherent requirements. It should be indicated on the web page. Most importantly, check that you meet the requirements for the course you are interested in.
- Step 2: Confirm Your Eligibility
To be eligible for any postgraduate course, you need to have or be in the process of getting a bachelor degree or equivalent. For undergraduate applications, you need a recognized qualification with the required grades. Some study programs require that you have a certain cut off grade point average. In addition to that, there are several other things you would have to check, such as the English requirements for the course. Also, check for any other requirements that the course may have.
- Step 3: Prepare Your Transcript Or Other Documents
The third step is to ensure that all application documents are available and handy. Check the required documents for each course and get them ready before commencing the application process. If the course you are applying for requires supplementary application forms, they will be included on the web page. If your documents are not in English, you will be required to include complementary translated copies of the document made by an accredited translator. For international students needing a study visa, the university would require that you include some additional documents.
- Step 4: Explore ANU Scholarships
International students are not eligible for Australian government subsidies on education. Before applying, there are several questions to ask yourself. Can you afford it? Would you need financial help to finish the course? Make sure you understand the fees you will be required to shoulder. These fees include the course fees and any other additional fees you will need to pay. While you are at it, check out financial aid options that you may be eligible for. ANU scholarships include academic achievement, athletic performance and financial and equity scholarships. You can explore all these on the ANU website.
- Step 5: Explore And Apply For Accommodation
ANU provides on-campus accommodation for new undergraduate students. Explore all the accommodation options that range from self-catered to fully catered residence halls, then apply for the one that’s most convenient for you.
- Step 6: Submit Your Application
After going through the first four steps, you can then go ahead and submit your application. Application dates differ depending on the program you are applying for. Make sure you submit your application before the deadline published on the website. If the deadline changes, it will be communicated to you.
There are several ways to apply. You can apply to the Australian National University directly; apply through the UAC website or an authorized agent. Some courses require that you apply directly to the school. To do so, hit the ‘apply now button on the course page you selected. You will have to pay an application fee of 100 USD. If you prefer to use an agent, only agents recognized by the Australian National University will be able to assist in processing your application. You can also apply through the UAC (University Admissions Center) if you are applying for undergraduate courses.
Documents Required
The application process requires that you include the documents that will support your applications. For domestic students, you will need scanned copies of your identification documents. You are a domestic student if you fall in any of these categories:
- You hold a permanent Australian humanitarian visa
- You are a citizen of Australia or New Zealand. This also extends to the holders of dual citizenship.
- Be a permanent resident of Australia.
When you are applying for admissions in ANU, it is better to have all the required documents beforehand. Some courses may have different required documents. Documents may also vary for international students depending on the country they are applying for. Feel free to request a list of required documents from the university if you are unsure about what you need. That notwithstanding, below is a list of documents you would need to present:
- All academic documents
- Online application form
- Student visa
- Passport
- TOEFL Certificate
- IELTS certificate
- Emails ID
- Contact information
- Health and life insurance
- World education service evaluation
- Proof of fee payment
Application Deadlines
The Australian National University has the same application deadline for almost all its programs. The standard application deadlines are November 15th and December 22nd. The exception is the MBA program whose application deadline is November 1st. If there are any changes to the application dates or there is an extension to the deadline, it will be published on the university’s website.
Let’s Wrap Up
In conclusion, the Australian National University is one of the best in Australia and the world for a reason. There is something for everybody, and every student gets the rare opportunity to customize a dream degree program for them all while enjoying a unique student experience. As much as this may be your dream school, the university has quite a competitive admission with an admission rate of 35%; you’ll have to put in the work.
From the 389 acre campus to a buzzing co-cultural inclusive student environment and everything in between, there is a lot to love about the Australian National University. Located in the country’s capital – Canberra, students can also enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities and indulge in the freshest meals from the best restaurants. Join the host of many others who have once called the Australian National University home by applying there today.
FAQs
- What Is Australian National University Famous For?
The Australian national university is famous for having a plethora of co-curricular and cultural activities. They are also famous for their picturesque 358-acre campus. The university first opened its residence halls for postgraduates in 1954 and has since welcomed students from all parts of the world.
- Is Australian National University Good?
We hope that clears any doubts you may have had on whether or not the Australian National University is a good school or not. The university isn’t just good; it is one of the best in the world. In 2021, QS World University Ranking ranked the university number one in Australia and 27th in the world while times higher education rankings ranked the university 3rd in Australia and 59th in the world in the same year.
- Is Australian National University Free For International Students?
Unless you have a scholarship, grant or some form of financial aid, you will not be able to study for free. The Australian National University doesn’t offer international students free education. International students will have to pay the full tuition fee, which will not be subsidized by the Australian government. Your deposit of AUD 20,000 will contribute to your overall tuition cost.
- Is It Easy To Get Into Australian National University?
Is any school really easy to get into? Well, the Australian National University admissions are very competitive, which means applicants stand better chances if they put their best foot forward and meet all/most of the admission requirements. The school acceptance rate is 35%, reiterating its competitiveness.
- How many people apply to the Australian national university?
This year, the Australian national university had about 6,970 applications compared to 4089 from the previous year. The school averages about 5000 new applications each year. That said, if you are considering applying to this university, you have your work cut out for you and a lot of competition to fight through. Remember, the university’s acceptance rate is 35%, so most applicants will be turned down.