In short
Central Queensland University (CQUniversity) is a public Australian university offering TAFE to research degrees with flexible on-campus and online study options. It focuses on career-ready graduates, industry engagement, and research addressing real-world issues.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1967
- Students
- 30,000
- International students
- 5,000
- Acceptance rate
- 70%
- Tuition (intl)
- €12–20k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Australia
Central Queensland University (CQUniversity) is a dynamic Australian public university known for its strong focus on engagement and impact. It offers a wide range of study options, from TAFE certificates and diplomas to undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees. CQUniversity provides flexible learning, allowing students to study on-campus at its various locations across Australia or through its comprehensive online platform. This approach makes education accessible to a diverse student body, including those in regional areas and working professionals. The university is committed to producing graduates who are ready for their careers, a fact reflected in its strong graduate outcomes. CQUniversity maintains close ties with industry through research collaborations, work-integrated learning opportunities, and programs designed to meet current job market demands. Key study areas include Allied Health, Business, Creative Arts, Education, Engineering, Information Systems, Law, Nursing, Psychology, Science, and Trades. The university also offers various entry pathways, emphasizing its belief in accessible education for all. Beyond academics, CQUniversity is actively involved in research that addresses real-world issues, particularly in health, environment, and social impact. It also plays a significant role in community engagement, offering facilities like a gym and health clinics, and fostering strong alumni and global partnerships. The university prioritizes social equity and Indigenous engagement, aiming to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Why study here
- Flexible study options including on-campus across Australia or comprehensive online learning.
- Strong focus on career-ready graduates with excellent employment outcomes.
- Engaged with industry through partnerships and work-integrated learning opportunities.
- Committed to research that addresses real-world challenges in health, environment, and social impact.
- Offers various entry pathways to make education accessible to diverse backgrounds.
Student life
CQUniversity offers a supportive student experience with access to various services and facilities. These include health clinics, a university gym, and opportunities for social engagement through alumni networks and community partnerships. The university fosters an inclusive environment, actively promoting social equity and Indigenous engagement.
Fees
InternationalApproximately EUR 12,000-20,000 per year (around AUD 20,000-33,000) depending on the program.
HomeDomestic students are typically supported through Commonwealth Supported Places and HECS-HELP loans.
LivingAround EUR 13,000-18,000 per year, in line with the Australian student visa living-cost benchmark.
International tuition varies by discipline; health and engineering programs tend to be at the higher end. An automatic international scholarship can reduce fees.
Admissions
Undergraduate entryCompletion of Australian Year 12 or recognised equivalent with the required ATAR/selection rank, or an approved pathway, diploma or relevant work experience.
Postgraduate entryA recognised bachelor's degree (or equivalent professional experience) in a relevant field; some programs have additional prerequisites.
IELTS (Academic)Overall 6.0 (no band less than 5.5)
TOEFL (iBT)Overall 69 (no section less than 17)
PTE AcademicOverall 50 (no band less than 42)
Cambridge English Advanced (CAE)Overall 169 (no band less than 162)
Duolingo English Test (DET)Overall 105
Rankings
Times Higher Education World University RankingsAround 601-800 globally
QS World University RankingsWithin the broad global band (around 1000)
University scholarships
International Student ScholarshipUp to ~25% tuition reduction
Accreditation
Registered Australian university regulated by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and listed on CRICOS for international students. Many professional programs carry additional industry accreditation (e.g. nursing, engineering, psychology).
For international students
AustraliaStudent visa & funds
International students need the Student visa (subclass 500), which requires a Confirmation of Enrolment from a CRICOS-registered provider, Overseas Student Health Cover, and a health and character check. Since May 2024 applicants must show financial capacity of at least AUD 29,710 for one year of living costs, plus first-year tuition and around AUD 2,500 for travel. Since March 2024 all applicants must also satisfy the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, which replaced the former Genuine Temporary Entrant test.
Working while you study
Student visa holders may work a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session — a cap re-introduced in July 2023 — and unlimited hours during official scheduled course breaks. Students enrolled in a master’s by research or a doctoral degree have no work-hour limit at any time. Work must not begin before the course start date.
After you graduate
Eligible graduates may apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) within six months of completing their studies. In the Post-Higher Education Work stream, bachelor’s and master’s (coursework) holders receive up to two years and master’s (research) or doctoral holders up to three years; regional study and the Australia–India trade agreement can add further time. The general age limit is under 35 at the time of application, rising to under 50 for research-degree holders.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; Group of Eight typically 6.5–7.0 with no band below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT79–100; UG 79–90, PG 90–100
- PTE Academic50–65; UG 58+, PG 65+
Main intakes
FebruaryJuly
Typical living cost
€1,600/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesDepartment of Home Affairs — Student visa (subclass 500) · Study Australia — Student visa (subclass 500) work rights · Study Australia — Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) · IDP IELTS — Minimum IELTS scores for Australian universities · AECC — Cost of living in Australia for international students
Programs
a selectionCentral Queensland University · Australia
Bachelor of Laws
CQU's fully accredited Bachelor of Laws is an innovative, three-year full-time or four-year part-time undergraduate degree designed to prepare you for a career as a legal professional. As a leader in online legal education, this degree offers a flexible and contemporary curriculum. Upon completion of required professional legal training, you will be eligible to practice nationally, with mutual recognition of practising certificates across Australian states and territories. The program emphasizes developing essential legal knowledge alongside practical skills, preparing you for the evolving legal landscape influenced by technology and artificial intelligence. You will gain valuable experience through a variety of hands-on activities, including simulations, legal document drafting, client interviewing, and developing legal apps. A compulsory legal practicum unit allows you to undertake a work placement, a social innovation project, or a workplace simulation, connecting theoretical learning with real-world application. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths, including solicitor, barrister, in-house counsel, academia, business, public service, and politics. The degree incorporates experiential learning opportunities and focuses on the ethical, social, and practical implications of technological advancements in law.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Central Queensland University · Australia
Higher Degree by Research Programs
Central Queensland University (CQU) offers various higher degrees by research (HDR), including Master by Research and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) options. These programs allow you to conduct supervised research in your area of interest, aiming to contribute new knowledge to your field. CQU focuses on research with direct impacts on industries and communities, offering a range of specializations. Applications are open year-round, providing a flexible pathway to advance your academic and research career.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Central Queensland University · Australia
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Central Queensland University (CQU) offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) designed to enhance your management and leadership capabilities. The program aims to equip you with contemporary skills relevant to various sectors, including public, not-for-profit, and for-profit organizations. CQU provides flexible learning options, including a 100% online MBA with no group work or assessment deadlines, allowing busy professionals to advance their careers at their own pace.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
18 mo
Duration
Central Queensland University · Australia
Postgraduate Study
Central Queensland University (CQU) offers a range of postgraduate study options, including graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, and master's degrees. You can choose to study online with flexible, self-paced, and affordable accredited programs, or opt for on-campus learning. CQU is recognized for its supportive online learning environment and provides opportunities for students to upskill and enhance their employability through various course formats and potential fee savings on postgraduate programs.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Central Queensland University · Australia
Study at Central Queensland University
Central Queensland University (CQU) offers a wide range of undergraduate degrees designed to help you achieve your career goals. You can choose to study online or on campus, and options are available for full-time or part-time attendance. CQU is committed to providing excellent graduate outcomes and offers a Graduate Guarantee for its undergraduate courses to boost confidence in career starts.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Central Queensland University · Australia
TAFE Certificates and Diplomas
Central Queensland University (CQU) offers a wide range of TAFE Certificates and Diplomas, available both online and on-campus across regional Queensland. These programs are designed for individuals looking to upskill, retrain, or start their careers. Certificates range from entry-level (Certificate I and II) for foundational knowledge to more advanced Certificate III and IV qualifications for job readiness. TAFE Diplomas provide in-depth study, leading to highly skilled job outcomes and potential pathways to further university study.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Scholarships
for Australia
full fundingAustralian Government - Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Australia Awards)
ASEAN-Australia Awards Scholarships
Open to citizens of eligible ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste) applying for a master's degree by coursework or research at an Australian university. Applicants need a strong academic record, leadership potential, relevant work experience and English proficiency, and must meet Australian visa and health requirements. Exact terms are set each cycle by the Australian Government.
full
Funding
€120k
Max
Apr 30, 2027
Deadline
full fundingForrest Research Foundation (Minderoo Foundation)
Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships
Open to early-career post-doctoral researchers of any nationality and from all academic disciplines. Applicants must be in the final year of their PhD or no more than two years past PhD completion at the time of taking up the fellowship, be proficient in English, and meet the employment-eligibility conditions of the host Western Australian university. Fellows must reside at Forrest Hall in Perth for the full term and commit to mentoring Forrest Scholars, undertaking ambassadorial duties and providing leadership within Forrest Hall.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Melbourne
Hansen Scholarship at the University of Melbourne
Australian citizens, permanent residents or holders of an Australian temporary or permanent protection visa who are enrolled in an Australian Year 12 or IB programme, aged 16-20 at application, with a predicted ATAR of 90+ (or IB equivalent) and demonstrated financial hardship (e.g. a family receiving Centrelink benefits). Asylum seekers are eligible for full fee remission.
full
Funding
€65k
Max
Mar 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingAustralian Government (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade)
Australia Awards Scholarships
Open to citizens of ~30+ eligible developing countries (mostly the Indo-Pacific), who are not married to/engaged to an Australian or NZ citizen, meet academic and English requirements, and commit to returning home for at least 2 years after study. Fields must align with the partner country's development priorities.
full
Funding
€60k
Max
Apr 30, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Sydney
University of Sydney International Research Scholarship (USydIS)
For international students undertaking a postgraduate research degree (a master's by research or a PhD) at the University of Sydney. It covers tuition fees and a living-allowance stipend; applicants need a strong research background and a confirmed place and supervisor for their research project.
full
Funding
€45k
Max
Sep 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Melbourne (School of Computing and Information Systems)
University of Melbourne CIS PhD Scholarship
Open to domestic and international students of all nationalities. Applicants must hold a Master of Computer Science from the University of Melbourne, apply for the Doctor of Philosophy – Engineering and IT (Computing and Information Systems) programme (DR-PHILEIT), and demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership, and research potential. A research proposal, a personal statement, and a letter of support from the proposed PhD supervisor are required.
full
Funding
€42k
Max
-18d left
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the approximate tuition fees for international students at Central Queensland University?
+
International student tuition fees typically range from EUR 12,000-20,000 per year (around AUD 20,000-33,000), depending on the specific program of study. Programs in health and engineering are generally at the higher end of this range.
Does Central Queensland University offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, Central Queensland University offers an automatic International Student Scholarship. This scholarship provides an eligible international student with a tuition fee reduction of up to approximately 25% upon enrolment.
What are the living cost expectations for international students in Australia?
+
The estimated annual living costs for students are around EUR 13,000-18,000 per year. This figure aligns with the Australian student visa living-cost benchmark.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
To meet English language requirements, students can provide scores such as an IELTS (Academic) overall of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5, or a TOEFL (iBT) overall of 69 with no section less than 17. Other tests like PTE Academic and Duolingo are also accepted.
What are the general academic requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate entry?
+
For undergraduate entry, students typically need to have completed the Australian Year 12 or its recognized equivalent, achieving the required ATAR or selection rank. Postgraduate entry usually requires a recognized bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience, with some programs having additional prerequisites.
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