Entry Requirements
To study at CQUniversity, you need to meet academic requirements and English requirements. These are the skills and knowledge we expect you to have before starting a course.
Entry requirements vary among courses.
Additionally, you must also meet the Genuine Student requirements as defined by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.
Academic Requirements
Academic requirements vary among courses. You need to meet the minimum academic requirements for the course you want to study as outlined on the specific course page or in our student handbook.
The following details the Australian academic requirements needed to study at CQUniversity, as well as alternative entry options and recognition of prior learning.
CQUniversity recognises international qualifications obtained from all around the world for entry into our courses. You can refer to the country specific academic requirements document on how international academic qualifications are equated to Australian standards.
Diploma
Successful completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent; or completion of AQF Certificate IV or equivalent.
Undergraduate
Successful completion of the equivalent of Australian Year 12. An approved university foundation studies or formal Australian Certificate IV can also be taken to meet this entry requirement.
If you have successfully completed a certificate, diploma or advanced diploma (or equivalent) you may gain advanced standing into your CQUniversity course.
Postgraduate Coursework
Successful completion of a bachelor degree with the equivalent to an Australian pass grade average in the final two terms, from a recognised higher education institution.
Postgraduate Research
The entry requirements to undertake a research higher degree is different from a postgraduate coursework. In addition to meeting the academic entry requirements, you must select your research area of interest as well as find your research supervisor.
Special Postgraduate Entry
Entry into the Master of Business Administration normally requires the equivalent of an Australian undergraduate degree and at least three years of work experience in a management capacity.
CQUniversity provides an alternative entry to these masters courses through successful completion of a:
- Graduate Certificate in Business Administration
- Graduate Diploma in Business Administration
Entry into the graduate certificate can be obtained through five years of relevant work experience or a combination of diploma and two years relevant work experience.
Special Consideration
Special consideration for admission into our courses may be granted if you do not have formal academic qualifications but have completed other forms of post-secondary study (e.g. professional qualifications) and have relevant work experience. You should submit full details with your application.
Credit Transfer
You may be able to apply for credits from your previous academic qualifications. When you apply, we will assess your prior qualifications on a case-by-case basis and may award you with credit towards the course you wish to study. You must submit full details of qualifications with your application and consult with us or one of our agents in your country.
CQUniversity also has formal articulation arrangements with a number of Australian and international institutions. Please refer to our articulation database for a full list of qualifications and institutions that have pathways into CQUniversity.
About Us
We’re a proud, leading regional university delivering real choices, real support, and a quality education to students across Australia.
CQUniversity is one of Australia’s largest regional universities, with a presence in every mainland state and a strong reputation for excellence in education, real-world graduate outcomes, and industry collaboration.
With over 30,000 students studying online and on campus across the country, we offer real choices through a comprehensive range of more than 250 qualifications, from short courses and trades to undergraduate, postgraduate and research higher degrees.
As Queensland’s only dual-sector university, we provide flexible study pathways, industry-aligned training, and personalised support to help our students succeed, wherever they are.
Our strong regional focus, inclusive approach, and leadership in online learning ensure our students receive a quality education, no matter their location or background.
Acknowledgement of Country
CQUniversity acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which work and learn. We recognise their deep and ongoing connection to this land, its seas, skies, and waterways, and the role they continue to play in caring for Country.
We also honour their right to self-determination, acknowledging the importance of their guidance and leadership in shaping our futures.
We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging, honouring their wisdom, leadership, and the cultural traditions they uphold.
May their strength and connection to the land guide us.
Our Vision and Leadership
Discover how our leadership, structure and strategic direction drive excellence in education and shape CQUniversity’s future.
Leadership and Strategy
CQU is committed to accessible, socially responsible, and world-class education and research that drives positive change in our communities.
Innovation and practicality are at the heart of CQUniversity. Our forward-thinking approach has driven significant impact across regional, national, and international stages.
Our Purpose
To provide world-class, inclusive education, training and research opportunities to our students, partners and communities across Australia and internationally.
Our Vision
To be Australia’s most accessible and supportive university, connecting our regions to the world through innovative education, training and research excellence.
Organisational Structure
CQUniversity’s organisational structure is designed to support the delivery of our Strategic Plan and drive progress toward our institutional goals.
As a large and regionally engaged university, our structure reflects a commitment to strong leadership, clear accountability, and collaboration across our teaching, research, and professional divisions.
Our executive leaders work together to ensure the University remains responsive to the needs of our communities, students, and staff, supporting excellence in learning and teaching, impactful research, and inclusive growth. This structure also underpins our operational effectiveness, campus development, and digital innovation, helping us deliver on our promise of accessible, high-quality education and research that matters.
Excellence in Education
At CQUniversity, education excellence goes beyond academic achievement, it means delivering inclusive, industry-aligned, and future-focused learning that creates real impact.
Seamless Learning Pathways
As Australia’s most geographically inclusive university, we offer a unique mix of TAFE and university qualifications. Our flexible pathways let you start where you are and go where you want, from short courses, certificates and diplomas to undergraduate, postgraduate and research degrees.
Excellence in Graduate Outcomes
We equip our students with the knowledge, skills and experience to thrive in the real world.
CQUniversity is rated five stars by The Good Universities Guide, for full-time employment and starting salary for both undergraduate and postgraduate study, placing us among the top 20% of Australian universities.
Aligned to Sustainable Development Goals
Our excellence extends to the future we’re helping to shape. CQUniversity is deeply committed to creating a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable world by aligning our teaching, research and operations to the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Many of our research initiatives directly support progress on the SDGs, driving meaningful change in health, education, climate, and social equity.
Inclusive by Design
We’re proud to be one of Australia’s most inclusive universities (The Good Universities Guide), with some of the highest participation rates among:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
- Students from disadvantaged and mature-age backgrounds
- First-in-family university students
Our commitment to access and equity is part of what makes CQU exceptional, we measure our success by who we support, not who we exclude.
Teaching That Transforms
Our educators bring industry experience, academic excellence, and a strong student-first mindset to every course.
In the 2023 ComparED results, we outperformed many other universities in:
- Student support
- Teaching quality
- Skills development
- Full-time employment
- Median salary
- Educational experience
- Facilities and resources
Leading Research with Real Impact
CQUniversity is proud to be Australia’s first and only Ashoka U Changemaker Campus, recognised globally for social innovation in higher education.
We’re rated as conducting world-class research in 22 categories, with the highest possible ratings in:
- Mathematical Sciences
- Applied Mathematics
- Electrical and Mechanical Engineering
- Horticultural Production
- Psychological and Cognitive Sciences
Our research is applied, practical, and focused on improving lives, in our communities, across industries, and around the world.
History and Politics
Gain an understanding of the events, structures and systems that have shaped our modern world when you study History and Politics at CQU.
Whether you are interested in analysing the past or using its learnings to solve problems in our present day, studying History and Politics at CQUniversity will set you up for a varied and rewarding career.
Choosing a major in History and Politics allows you to develop a sophisticated research approach, and a keen ability to evidence, debate and explain continuity and change over time. Enjoy smaller class sizes and greater support with the option to study online to suit your lifestyle.
International Fee-paying Students
You will pay international student fees if you are not one of the below:
- An Australian or New Zealand citizen
- An Australian permanent resident
- An Australian permanent humanitarian visa holder
CQUniversity’s fees for international students are listed in the fees section of each course page on our website. Tuition fees vary depending on the course and units you study.
To see the list of courses available to international students with term and annual fees, you can view our 2026 International Courses and Fees.
To see the fee per unit for international students, you can view our 2026 Tuition Fee Schedule.
Your Letter of Offer will include an estimate of the fees for your full course.
Other Information
- You may be eligible for the International Merit Scholarship of up to 25% of your total course fee, if you meet all the terms and conditions.
- The same course fees apply whether you study at a CQU campus or online.
- As an international student, you are not eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place.
The CQU Fee Advantage
Findings from Studymove show that both our average undergraduate and postgraduate course fees are approximately 6% and 12% respectively more affordable than the average course fees of other Australian universities. Our affordable course fees do not compromise the quality of education we provide or our graduate outcomes. In fact, our graduates find employment fast and earn more than the national average (QILT ComparED 2023).
Learn more about our international fee advantage.
Our commitment to affordable quality is further validated by the ISB survey results for value for money.
In the 2023 International Student Barometer, our students have told us they felt their current course is good value for money, placing us above both the global and Australian university average for this aspect of their student experience.
Other Costs
In addition to international course tuition fees, you must have sufficient funds to cover additional expenses such as textbooks, accommodation costs, Overseas Student Health Cover and general costs of living.
For more information regarding studying in Australia, visit the Study in Australia website, the official government site for international students.
Scholarships
Supporting your journey with us
Our scholarships recognise academic excellence, personal achievements, and support students from diverse backgrounds
With a little financial help, your university experience can be more affordable and you can focus on reaching your full potential.
Each year, we award around A$20 million in scholarships to international students. Whether you’re just starting or continuing your studies, we want as many students as possible to benefit from a CQUniversity education.
The CQU Scholarship Advantage
In the 2023 International Student Barometer, our students have told us they felt their course is good value for money, placing us well above the Australian university average in this aspect of their student experience.
Popular International Scholarships
International Merit Scholarship (IMS)
The International Merit Scholarship is available to new international students who plan to enrol in research, undergraduate and postgraduate coursework, or English studies packaged with academic courses. The scholarship covers up to 25% of your course fees. If you choose to study at a regional campus such as Rockhampton or Cairns, the scholarship will cover 25% of your course fees.
Southeast Asia Excellence Scholarship (SEAES)
The Southeast Asia Excellence Scholarship offers a 25% course fee reduction to international students who hold citizenship from a Southeast Asian country and apply from outside Australia.
Live, Earn, Learn Scholarship
The Live, Earn, Learn Scholarship is available to international students who have received offers to study at our Rockhampton North campus in Term 1, 2026. You will receive 35% off accommodation at Capricornia College (terms and conditions apply), work part-time on campus or in the local community, and immerse yourself in a vibrant campus lifestyle.
Research Training Program Stipend Scholarship
If you are undertaking a research higher degree at CQUniversity, you could be eligible for the Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarship, which aims to provide funding to assist with your living costs and valued up to A$36 000 per year.
Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
The Australia Awards Scholarships provide opportunities for students from participating countries to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian institutions. This scholarship covers tuition fees, airfares, living allowance, OSHC and more. Please check the DFAT website for more information including when new rounds of applications are open.
LPDP-Australia Awards Scholarship
Funded by the Australian and Indonesian governments, the LPDP-Australia Awards Scholarship is available to high achieving Indonesian citizens pursuing selected master’s degree at CQUniversity. The Scholarship covers 100% of your tuition fees as well as other financial support including living allowance, health insurance, visa application fee, transportation fee and more.
More on Scholarships
If you are a current CQU student enrolled in a CQU’s regional campus in a specific study area and continuing into the second or third year of your degree, you may be eligible for other externally funded scholarships.
We encourage you to browse our scholarship database to get more information on what scholarships you may be eligible for.
Apply to CQUni
How do I apply?
Apply directly online through iStart. If you need more information on how to apply, please visit our Apply page.
How long will my application take to be assessed?
If you are applying for credit assessment as part of your application, International Admissions will also review this during assessment of your application. Applications without credit assessment generally take less than 5 business days while applications with credit assessment may take an additional 5-10 business days.
Credit Transfer
Will I receive the same amount of credit recognised by my current institution?
You can apply for credit during the application process. Instructions are provided on the relevant screen in iStart during the application. Your transfer credit will be assessed and may vary due to the varying course structures for different degrees across universities. A database of existing credit precedents exist within the CQUni Credit Calculator however, please note the calculator is not exhaustive and you should submit your credit application regardless in your application.
I’ve already studied a year at my current institution. Can I receive credit for units/subjects studied?
Please see response above.
Changing Institutions
What should I do first if I wish to change my institution?
Refer to the Study in Australia website for detailed information regarding changing your course, level of qualification or institution. If you have an authorised recruitment agent, your agent can assist with further information. CQUniversity authorised agents are listed on our Find an Agent page. Please submit an application to CQUniversity and our International Admissions team will advise on any documentation required.
Will transferring to another institution impact my student visa?
If accepted to CQUniversity, you will be issued with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which is required to lodge your student visa application for study in Australia. If you change your level of qualification, you may need to apply for a new student visa as your visa subclass may change. Please refer to the Department of Home Affairs for further information.
Do I need a release letter from my current institution?
If you have not completed six months of your principal course of study, you will need to contact your current institution to apply for a letter of release. You will require a letter of offer from CQUniversity in order to apply for a letter of release from your current institution. Once you’ve applied to study at CQUniversity, International Admissions will assess your application and if a letter of release is required, you will be issued an offer conditional upon obtaining the letter of release from your current institution.
Scholarships
Can I apply for a scholarship and what does the scholarship offer?
You may be eligible for the International Merit Scholarship. The scholarship value ranges between 15% to 25% depending on your previous academic performance or your English language proficiency.
My grade average is not published as a percentage. What is the grade point average (GPA) out of 4 or 7 I need to have obtained to be eligible for the scholarship?
Our International Enquiries team will be able to provide advice on this. Please email international-enquiries@cqu.edu.au or call 03 9616 0606.
I will be moving city/state to study with CQUniversity. Does CQUniversity offer a travel or relocation bursary to assist me?
CQUniversity does not offer a travel or relocation bursary to students.
Admissions Conditions
I am struggling in my studies at my current institution and failing some units/subjects. Will I still receive an offer from CQUniversity?
We understand everyone’s circumstance may be different. We recommend you submit an application to CQUniversity with a strong Statement of Purpose for assessment by International Admissions and attach all supporting documentation including evidence of enrolment. Guidelines for writing a Statement of Purpose can be obtained from International Admissions at the time of application if required.
I am currently excluded at another institution. Will I still receive an offer from CQUniversity?
Students currently excluded or restricted from study at other institutions must meet those restriction periods first in order to be eligible to meet entry requirements to CQUniversity. If you are unsure if you are eligible, please submit an application to CQUniversity and International Admissions will assess your application.
Do I have to complete a Statement of Purpose?
A Statement of Purpose is not required from all applicants. International Admissions will advise at the time of application if this is required.
I am a tourist visa holder in Australia. Can I apply onshore (within Australia) to CQUniversity?
If you are onshore, you can apply to study at CQUniversity if you indicate you will lodge your student visa offshore. In this case, we will consider to assess and issue an offer based on offshore assessment guidelines. We will not issue a COE if you apply onshore and insist on lodging your student visa onshore.
Financial Considerations
How much deposit is required to accept my offer and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment?
If you are applying onshore (currently in Australia), you will be required to pay A$8,000 and the cost of your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your course(s), if you require it through CQUniversity. If you are applying offshore (outside of Australia), please refer to your Letter of Offer for the required deposit to receive your Confirmation of Enrolment.
Do you have a payment plan for paying tuition fees?
Typically, students must pay the balance of the term fees by Census Date each term. Term dates can be found in our Academic Calendars.
CQUniversity offers limited payment plans for continuing students who face financial hardships or extenuating circumstances. To be eligible for a payment plan, you will need to meet certain criteria:
- You are ineligible for Commonwealth assistance e.g. International and/or Non-Award students.
- You are a continuing Higher Education or Research student. First-term, brand-new students are not eligible.
- You can demonstrate genuine financial hardship or unforeseen extenuating circumstances with supporting documentation.
- A deposit (50% of the terms of the tuition fee) will be required for the payment plan which must be paid to CQUniversity prior to submission of the form.
- Regular repayments will be required.
International students are required to enquire on campus in order to receive the document required to apply. - Collection agreement applications for student fees must be submitted on campus no later than the due date listed on the application form (this is usually prior to census date).
Is there a financial check/declaration required by CQUniversity on my access to funds?
In some cases, you or your agent will be required to complete a Financial Declaration Form. International Admissions will advise at the time of application if this is required.
What incentives or discounts are available to international students?
If you’re a new student, you may be eligible for the International Merit Scholarship, which is valued between 15% to 25% depending on your previous academic performance or English Language proficiency.
