University of Sydney logo

University of Sydney

Sydney, AU · Ranking #18

The University of Sydney (USYD) is Australia’s oldest public research university, founded in 1850, with a rich legacy of academic excellence, innovation, and global impact. USYD is a member of the prestigious Group of Eight and offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across diverse disciplines including arts and social sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, law, medicine, science, and creative industries. The university promotes research that addresses global challenges through more than 150 research centres and collaborations spanning science, technology, health, and social policy. With a vibrant campus life in Sydney’s urban heart, students benefit from industry engagement, practical learning, global mobility opportunities, and a supportive multicultural environment that prepares graduates for leadership and societal contribution worldwide. USYD has produced influential alumni including Nobel laureates, Australian prime ministers, and leading professionals in international fields.

University of Sydney logo University of Sydney

University of Sydney

About the university

The University of Sydney (USYD) is Australia’s oldest public research university, founded in 1850, with a rich legacy of academic excellence, innovation, and global impact. USYD is a member of the prestigious Group of Eight and offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across diverse disciplines including arts and social sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, law, medicine, science, and creative industries. The university promotes research that addresses global challenges through more than 150 research centres and collaborations spanning science, technology, health, and social policy. With a vibrant campus life in Sydney’s urban heart, students benefit from industry engagement, practical learning, global mobility opportunities, and a supportive multicultural environment that prepares graduates for leadership and societal contribution worldwide. USYD has produced influential alumni including Nobel laureates, Australian prime ministers, and leading professionals in international fields.

Key information

  • Location: Sydney, AU
  • Ranking #18
  • QS #25
  • THE #60
  • US News #29
  • National ranking #1
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Arts and Social Sciences
  • Business
  • Engineering
  • Science
  • Health Sciences
  • Law
  • Medicine
  • Veterinary Science
  • Creative Industries
  • Agriculture

Programs (37)

  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Veterinary Science
  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Telecommunications
  • Business Administration
  • Pharmacy
  • Dentistry
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Economics
  • Public Health
  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental Science
  • Engineering
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Marketing
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Law
  • Political Science
  • International Relations
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology
  • Education
  • Fine Arts
  • Music

Student body

  • Total students: 73,000
  • Undergraduate: 42,000
  • Graduate: 31,000
  • International students: 47%

Campus life

The University of Sydney's Camperdown-Darlington campus is one of Australia's most iconic, featuring the stunning neo-Gothic Main Quadrangle modeled after Oxford and Cambridge. Founded in 1850, it is Australia's oldest university, blending heritage architecture with world-class modern facilities including the award-winning Charles Perkins Centre and Fisher Library. Located in Sydney's inner west, students are minutes from Newtown's vibrant cafe culture and the CBD. Seven independent residential colleges provide a traditional collegiate experience with mentoring and academic programs. The university hosts over 250 clubs and societies, and its sports program is one of the most competitive in Australia. The campus also features the Nicholson Museum, art galleries, and extensive green spaces including the scenic Victoria Park.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $1,000 - $2,500 / per week

Housing options

  • 7 independent residential colleges
  • University residences (Abercrombie, Regiment, Queen Mary, Darlington House)
  • Sancta Sophia College (~300 students)
  • Scape and UniLodge partnerships
  • Off-campus housing database

Student clubs and organizations

  • Sydney University Sport & Fitness
  • Debating Society
  • Drama Society
  • 180 Degrees Consulting
  • Music Society
  • Over 250 clubs and societies

Sports

  • Rugby
  • Cricket
  • Rowing
  • Swimming
  • Football
  • Tennis
  • Hockey
  • Athletics
  • Water Polo

Career & internships

Employment rate: 90%

Partner companies

  • PwC
  • Deloitte
  • KPMG
  • EY
  • IBM
  • Google
  • BHP
  • CSL

Internships: The University of Sydney integrates internships and professional placements into many programs. Students have access to industry‑linked placements, clerkships in law, clinical placements in health and medicine, and science internships with corporate partners. International placement opportunities span Europe, Asia, and North America in partnership with global institutions, and programs like the Summer Clerkship Scheme and Sydney Abroad support cross‑border experience. Dedicated career services assist with placements, CV development, and employer networking to boost employability.

Admission requirements

Required tests

  • IELTS
  • TOEFL

Required documents

  • Application form
  • Academic transcripts
  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
  • Personal statement
  • References

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • $20,000 - $40,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 40.00%
  • Scholarships available: The University of Sydney offers a comprehensive range of scholarships for international and domestic students, including merit‑based awards, equity and access scholarships, research scholarships, and targeted support for specific study areas. Financial awards may cover tuition fees, living expenses, research costs, and travel support, with some funded by industry partners or external organisations. International students may also access mobility and exchange scholarships, English language pathway awards, and emergency financial assistance. Scholarship opportunities vary by faculty and level of study, and many applicants apply through the central scholarship portal or faculty‑specific schemes.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1850
  • Teaching languages: English, english
  • Study formats: offline

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