Group of 8 (Go8) Universities in Australia: Rankings, Courses, and Fees

Anjana Manikandan
By Anjana Manikandan
Study Abroad Content Expert

Australia is home to some of the world’s top universities, and the Group of 8 Universities in Australia, also known as the Go8, are the most prestigious among them. These universities are known for their high-quality education, strong research programs, and excellent global reputation. Every year, thousands of international students choose Go8 universities to achieve their academic and career goals.

In this blog, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about Go8 universities in Australia. You’ll learn what the Group of Eight is, the list of Go8 universities, their rankings, popular courses, tuition fees, and visa success rates. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of why these universities are so highly regarded and which one might be the perfect fit for you.

What is the Group of Eight (Go8) Universities in Australia?

The Group of Eight (Go8) is a coalition of Australia’s top research-focused universities, known for excellent teaching, world-class research, and a strong global reputation. These universities consistently rank among the world’s best, educate a large number of students, and drive much of Australia’s university research.

For international students, Go8 universities offer outstanding academic opportunities and a solid foundation for future careers.

List of Group of 8 Universities in Australia

List of Group of 8 Universities in Australia
Here’s a quick list of Go8 universities in Australia:

1. University of Melbourne

2. Australian National University (ANU)

3. University of Sydney

4. University of Queensland

5. Monash University

6. University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)

7. University of Western Australia (UWA)

8. University of Adelaide

Group of 8 Universities in Australia

Here’s a brief overview of each university:

1. Australian National University (ANU)

ANU, one of the Group of 8 Universities in Australia, is the country’s top research university, famous for academic excellence and strong research programs. Located in Canberra, it offers lively campus life and close links with government and policy institutions. Students enjoy world-class facilities and global collaboration.

Established: 1946

Location: Canberra, Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Popular Courses: Political Science, International Relations, Earth Sciences

2. University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne is Australia’s highest-ranked university, known for its research, teaching quality, and graduate opportunities. Its city-center campus gives students a dynamic urban experience.

Established: 1853

Location: Melbourne, Victoria

Popular Courses: Medicine, Law, Engineering

3. University of Sydney

Australia’s oldest university, the University of Sydney, is famous for its historic campus, strong research, and vibrant student life. It has many international partnerships and diverse programs.

Established: 1850

Location: Sydney, New South Wales

Popular Courses: Business, Arts, Health Sciences

4. University of Queensland (UQ)

UQ stands out for its research, award-winning teaching, and beautiful campus. It excels in sciences, engineering, and business and has strong industry connections.

Established: 1909

Location: Brisbane, Queensland

Popular Courses: Biotechnology, Business, Engineering

5. Monash University

Monash is a global research university with campuses in Malaysia, India, and China. It’s known for innovative research, flexible courses, and international industry placements.

Established: 1958

Location: Melbourne, Victoria

Popular Courses: Pharmacy, Engineering, Business

6. University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)

UNSW Sydney is famous for research and strong industry links, especially in engineering, business, and law. It also offers various Scholarships to Study in Australia, attracting a large, diverse student community to its modern campus facilities.

Established: 1949

Location: Sydney, New South Wales

Popular Courses: Engineering, Law, Business

7. University of Western Australia (UWA)

UWA is Western Australia’s oldest university, known for excellence in research and teaching. Its riverside campus offers a beautiful study environment and strong programs in science, business, and environmental studies.

Established: 1911

Location: Perth, Western Australia

Popular Courses: Earth Sciences, Business, Marine Biology

8. University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide, a member of the Group of 8 Universities in Australia, is one of the country’s oldest and most respected universities. It’s known for research in science and engineering and is connected to global academic networks.

Established: 1874

Location: Adelaide, South Australia

Popular Courses: Wine Science, Engineering, Health Sciences

Group of 8 Universities Ranking

Here’s how the Go8 universities rank in the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings:

University QS World University Ranking THE World University Ranking
University of Melbourne 19 39
University of New South Wales 20 83
University of Sydney 25 (tie) 61
Australian National University 32 (tie) 73 (tie)
Monash University 36 (tie) 58
University of Queensland 42 77
University of Western Australia 77 149
University of Adelaide 82 (tie) 128 (tie)

How much are the Tuition Fees at Go8 Universities in Australia?

The average tuition fees at Go8 universities in Australia range from AUD 40,000 – 50,000 per year, but they vary depending on the university, program, and level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate).

Let’s see in detail:

University Undergraduate (AUD/year) Postgraduate (AUD/year)
Australian National University (ANU) 45,000 – 50,000 45,000 – 55,000
University of Melbourne 41,000 – 48,000 42,000 – 50,000
University of Sydney 40,000 – 50,000 42,000 – 52,000
University of Queensland (UQ) 37,000 – 45,000 38,000 – 48,000
Monash University 37,000 – 45,000 38,000 – 48,000
University of New South Wales (UNSW) 40,000 – 50,000 42,000 – 52,000
University of Adelaide 35,000 – 42,000 36,000 – 45,000
University of Western Australia (UWA) 36,000 – 44,000 37,000 – 46,000

Group of 8 Universities in Australia Visa Success Rate

The visa success rate for Group of 8 Universities in Australia is generally high, averaging around 95% to 98%. These universities are considered low-risk institutions by the Australian Department of Home Affairs because of their strong academic reputation and genuine student profiles.

Why the Success Rate is High:

  • Go8 universities are trusted and government-recognized institutions.
  • Students admitted here are viewed as genuine applicants with clear study intentions.
  • Proper documentation and financial proof further improve approval chances.

In short:

Getting a student visa for a Go8 university is usually easier compared to other institutions, provided all visa requirements are met.

Conclusion

Studying at a Group of Eight (Go8) university in Australia gives you top-quality education, great research opportunities, and strong career prospects. Along with excellent academic exposure, students can also explore Part Time Jobs in Australia to gain valuable work experience and support their living expenses. While the fees can be higher, the experience and opportunities you gain make it worth it. Choosing a Go8 university can be a smart step toward a successful future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the G08 universities in Australia?
The Go8 universities are Australia’s top research and high-ranking institutions, including Melbourne, ANU, Sydney, UNSW, Monash, Queensland, UWA, and Adelaide. They offer world-class education and strong industry connections.
What is the difference between Go8 and Ivy League?
Australia’s Go8 are top public universities leading in research. The US Ivy League are elite private schools known for tradition, prestige, and academic excellence.
What is a level 1 university in Australia?
In Australia, “Level 1” means a basic vocational certificate, not a university. Universities offer courses from Diploma (Level 5) to Doctorate (Level 10).
Does Australia have ivy league universities?
Australia’s Group of Eight (Go8) is like the Ivy League, with top universities such as Melbourne, ANU, Sydney, Monash, and UNSW. They offer excellent education, strong research, and global recognition, attracting students worldwide.
Which Australian university has the highest visa success rate?
No university guarantees a visa. Your success depends on your eligibility and application. In 2025, Australia’s student visa approval is around 85–87%.
What is the Ivy League in Australia?
Australia’s “Group of Eight” (Go8) universities, like Melbourne, Sydney, and ANU, lead in research, academics, and industry connections. They are the country’s top universities with a strong global reputation.
How to apply for Group of Eight universities in Australia?
Pick a Go8 university and program in Australia, check requirements like transcripts and IELTS, then apply online. Some need a fee. After your offer, complete visa and enrollment steps. Explore scholarships early! Go8 universities include Melbourne, UNSW, Monash, ANU, UWA, UQ, Adelaide, and Sydney.


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