In short
The University of Newcastle is a globally ranked public research university in Australia offering a wide range of programs across multiple campuses. It is recognised for its research excellence and provides dedicated support and scholarship opportunities for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1965
- Students
- 40,000
- International students
- 6,000
- Acceptance rate
- 70%
- Tuition (intl)
- €18–32k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Australia
The University of Newcastle (UON) is a public research university in New South Wales, Australia, founded in 1965 and ranked in the global top 1% by QS. It offers programs in medicine, engineering, law, education, business, and the arts across campuses in Newcastle, the Central Coast, Sydney, and Singapore. UON is recognised for excellence in sustainability, climate action, and health research, and is committed to equity and Indigenous higher education through the Wollotuka Institute.
Why study here
- Ranked in the top 1% globally by QS and top 40 in the world for overall university impact (THE).
- World-class research in climate action, public health, and engineering with industry-linked projects.
- Multiple campus locations — Newcastle, Central Coast, Sydney, Singapore — offering flexibility.
- Strong employability outcomes: 91% of graduates employed full-time within four months of graduating.
- Dedicated international student support, pathway programs, and scholarship opportunities.
Student life
Newcastle is a vibrant coastal city with affordable living costs, excellent beaches, a thriving café culture, and a burgeoning arts scene. The UON Students' Association runs hundreds of clubs, societies, and events throughout the year. On-campus sporting facilities, health services, and academic support centres ensure a well-rounded university experience. The Callaghan campus is surrounded by bushland and wetlands, offering a scenic and tranquil study environment.
Fees
InternationalApprox. AUD 24,000–44,000 per year (approx. EUR 18,000–32,000) depending on the program. Medicine and dentistry are higher.
HomeCommonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) with student contribution from approx. AUD 4,000/year; HECS-HELP deferral available.
LivingMonthly living costs in Newcastle estimated at AUD 1,500–2,200 (approx. EUR 900–1,500), lower than Sydney or Melbourne.
Fees are reviewed annually. International students must pay in full by due dates; payment plans may be available.
Admissions
UndergraduateEquivalent of Australian Year 12 with competitive ATAR or equivalent score; direct entry and pathway options available
PostgraduateRelevant bachelor's degree (minimum equivalent of Australian second-class honours or 5.0 GPA on a 7.0 scale)
IELTS Academic6.0 overall (6.0 in each band) for most programs; 7.0+ for medicine and law
TOEFL iBT79 overall for most programs
PTE Academic58 overall for most programs
Rankings
QS World University RankingsTop 1% globally
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026251-300
Times Higher Education Impact RankingsTop 40 globally for impact
Times Higher Education Impact Rankings - Climate Action2nd in the world
University scholarships
UON International Excellence ScholarshipAUD 5,000 (approx. EUR 3,000) per year for high-achieving international undergraduates
TRaCE WIL ScholarshipAUD 4,000 for industry-engaged learning in recycling and energy sectors
ESSUN Equity ScholarshipsUp to AUD 5,000 for students facing financial hardship
Accreditation
Registered higher education provider (TEQSA). Programs accredited by Engineers Australia, the Australian Medical Council, the Law Admissions Consultative Committee, and other relevant professional bodies.
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 selectionUniversity of Newcastle · Australia
Aboriginal Health Research Led by Communities
This program focuses on community-led research within Aboriginal health, aiming to support the capacity, health, and wellbeing of young people and remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory. It emphasizes the importance of anthropological insights in health settings and aims to reframe the discourse around remote Aboriginal communities by highlighting their strengths and resilience, such as connection to family, land, and cultural pride. The research utilizes innovative, arts-based methods like body mapping and photo voice to engage young people and translate findings into practical resources. Key projects have explored living on country, the significance of cultural artefacts, and understanding relationships and sexual risk among youth. The program strongly advocates for community partnership, ensuring that research is guided by the interests and needs of the communities involved, fostering long-term relationships and empowering local voices.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Newcastle · Australia
Bachelor of Aboriginal Studies (Honours)
This Honours program offers a focused year of full-time study (or equivalent part-time) for students who have already completed a relevant Bachelor's degree. It is designed for those with a Bachelor of Aboriginal Studies, Bachelor of Aboriginal Professional Practice, Bachelor of Global Indigenous Studies, Bachelor of Arts, or Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Aboriginal Studies or Global Indigenous Studies. International students with backgrounds in health, education, and social sciences and relevant degrees are also encouraged to apply. The program allows you to delve deeper into specific areas of Aboriginal Studies, developing advanced knowledge and research skills. It prepares you for roles within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, focusing on service provision and advanced critical thinking within the discipline.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Newcastle · Australia
Bachelor of Applied Data Science
The Bachelor of Applied Data Science is designed to enhance your primary degree by equipping you with essential data skills. In today's data-driven world, the ability to uncover insights, solve complex problems, and make informed decisions using data is crucial across all industries. This program provides a foundation in data wrangling, visualization, database management, programming, and predictive analytics, making you more competitive in the job market. You can combine this program with your current degree through concurrent enrolment, graduating with two qualifications. This program is ideal for students from various backgrounds looking to gain in-demand data science skills. It focuses on practical application and ensures accessibility even for those without prior computing experience. By completing this program, you will develop advanced analytical, problem-solving, and innovation skills, aligning with future job market trends.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Newcastle · Australia
Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts program equips you with skills to analyse and understand complex ideas and their impact. You will explore the connections and disruptions within communities, nations, and the world, and learn how narratives shape our past, present, and future. This degree fosters global citizenship and prepares you for a meaningful career by allowing you to choose from a variety of specialisations in the arts, humanities, and languages. You will develop strong abilities in reading, critical evaluation, and writing, which can be applied to critiquing, curating, communicating, and shaping knowledge about society and culture. The program encourages you to explore human interactions, as well as relationships with nature and artificial intelligence, building advanced skills in areas like history, literature, politics, and sociology.
Bachelor's
Level
€22k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Newcastle · Australia
Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) is an additional year of full-time study for students who have performed well in their Bachelor of Arts or equivalent degree, achieving a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.0 or higher. This program allows you to deepen your knowledge and develop your specific interests within a chosen discipline. This honours program focuses on developing advanced knowledge, critical thinking, research skills, and effective communication. You will engage in in-depth study and undertake a substantial research project or thesis.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Newcastle · Australia
Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
This combined degree program offers a comprehensive education in both Arts and Law, leading to a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws (Honours). It is designed for students seeking to combine legal expertise with a broad understanding of arts and humanities subjects, opening doors to diverse career paths. The first three years focus on fulfilling the requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree, allowing students to explore a wide range of subjects within the arts and humanities. In the final two years, the curriculum shifts to cover the necessary courses for the Bachelor of Laws (Honours), equipping graduates with strong legal knowledge and skills. Graduates from this program are prepared for a variety of careers in the legal sector, as well as in government, non-governmental organizations, business, media, and cultural organizations. The program cultivates critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of societal contexts relevant to both legal and artistic fields.
Bachelor's
Level
€24k
Tuition
60 mo
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
-19d left
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students at the University of Newcastle?
+
International student fees range from approximately AUD 24,000 to AUD 44,000 per year, depending on the program. Medicine and dentistry programs have higher fees. These fees are reviewed annually.
Does the University of Newcastle offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, the University of Newcastle offers scholarships such as the UON International Excellence Scholarship, which provides AUD 5,000 per year for high-achieving international undergraduates. Other scholarships for industry engagement and equity are also available.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
Most programs require an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall (with 6.0 in each band) or a TOEFL iBT score of 79 overall. Medicine and law programs have higher requirements. PTE Academic is also accepted.
What are the living costs for students in Newcastle?
+
Monthly living costs in Newcastle are estimated to be between AUD 1,500 and AUD 2,200, which is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. This estimate includes accommodation, food, and other daily expenses.
What academic qualifications are needed for admission?
+
For undergraduate programs, students need qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 with a competitive ATAR or equivalent score. Postgraduate admission typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree with a minimum honours classification or GPA.
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