Before you start your degree, you must be competent in reading, writing and speaking English. There are many qualifications and tests you can use to demonstrate your English competency. Here are the most common ways to meet our minimum English language requirements.
Undergraduate degrees
ATAR English/English Literature/English as an Additional Language or Dialect, scaled score of at least 50
English General Grade A (Grade B also accepted for portfolio entry only)
STAT Written English, score of at least 140
Successful completion of UniReady units: Fundamentals of Academic Writing and Foundations of Communication, or equivalent
Successful completion of our UniReady or Indigenous enabling program
It’s with great pleasure that I welcome you to Curtin University, a leading global university transforming lives and communities through education and research.
With an expanding global presence, including locations in Western Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai and Mauritius, Curtin University boasts a rich diversity of cultures in its students and staff, and a commitment to international engagement. We also have a long-standing focus on Indigenous education and culture, supported by our Centre for Aboriginal Studies.
We offer a range of industry-aligned undergraduate and postgraduate courses in business, humanities, health, engineering and science across our campuses and online, which are available in various study modes. We also deliver select courses through specialty locations in regional Western Australia, including the WA School of Mines in Kalgoorlie, which has an international reputation for excellence in mining education and research.
By being exposed to business and industry during their studies, students can expect to graduate career-ready with highly sought-after knowledge, skills and experience. In addition, students can benefit from being exposed to research conducted at Curtin that is making a real difference to industry and the community at national and international levels.
In recent years, Curtin has experienced a rapid rise up the international university rankings, and as a university that never settles, we will continue to develop existing partnerships and establish new ones in areas relevant to our teaching and research.
Curtin is a vibrant institution with an exciting future and I invite you to join us as we move forward to help make tomorrow better.
Professor Harlene Hayne Vice-Chancellor
Traditional Aboriginal welcome
A Welcome to Country ceremony is a traditional Aboriginal blessing, symbolising the traditional owners’ consent to an event taking place on their land. Curtin acknowledges the Nyungar people as the traditional owners of the land on which Curtin Perth is sited and a Welcome to Country is performed at all major Curtin public events.
Our namesake: John Curtin
In the darkest days of World War II John Curtin rose to become Australia’s fourteenth prime minister. A Victorian by birth, he was the only prime minister to represent a Western Australian seat in the House of Representatives. Curtin led his country through extremely difficult times, which took a toll on his personal health. Today he is regarded as one of Australia’s most successful leaders and a great hero.
John Curtin, the son of working-class Irish immigrants, was born in 1885 in Victoria. He grew up in an era of increasing social unrest, when workers were beginning to assert their rights to decent pay and working conditions. His background, with its poverty and struggle and the influence of socialists like Tom Mann and Frank Anstey, led to Curtin’s involvement in the Labour Movement and politics.
Curtin became prime minister on 7 October 1941 at a time when Australia had deployed most of its trained troops to defend Britain. On 7 December 1941, the Japanese attacked the American base at Pearl Harbour and war began in the Asia-Pacific area. As prime minister, Curtin then faced what no other Australian prime minister before or since has faced: enemy attacks on the Australian mainland and the possibility of invasion.
Curtin’s subsequent actions changed the foreign policy of Australia and signalled a fundamental shift in the way Australians regarded themselves and their country’s place in the world. The traditional allegiance of Australians to the British Empire shifted in the face of the practicalities of alliance with, and reliance upon, the United States in their battle for survival against the Japanese.
Curtin was not only a great wartime leader – he also formulated policies for Australia’s post-war reconstruction, including planning for full employment, assisted immigration and improvements in social security. Under his leadership, the Australian Parliament passed landmark legislation, including an Act which established a uniform taxation scheme and removed the power of the states to collect income tax. His government also ratified British legislation establishing the independence of Dominion parliaments.
Curtin died in office on 5 July 1945, six weeks before the Japanese surrender and the return of peace and security to Australia.
Curtin University established the country’s first prime ministerial library to help honour and preserve Curtin’s contribution to Australia.
If ever a man was born to lead this nation into a time of peace and in the paths of peace it was John Curtin. If ever a man was born to apply his vision of what Australia at peace could be, his vision of what Australia at peace should become in his time, he was John Curtin.
Gough Whitlam Former Prime Minister of Australia
John Curtin’s Vision: Legacy and Leadership
Curtin University is offering a unique learning opportunity that examines the prime ministership of John Curtin – acclaimed as Australia’s greatest and most popular leader.
John Curtin’s Vision: Legacy and Leadership is a two-part credential comprising:
Part 1: An engaging and interactive free 20-hour short course that explores the social and geopolitical challenges that John Curtin faced, and his influence on contemporary Australian life and leadership. Upon completion, participants will earn an Engage badge.
Part 2: On completion of part 1, participants have the option to undertake a formal assessment task that provides 5 course credit points plus an Essentials badge, at a cost of $150.
Campus locations
Over the years, our physical expansion has mirrored our forward-looking nature and responsiveness to the changing needs of our students, partners and the broader communities we serve.
Curtin Perth
Our largest campus, Curtin Perth, is located in the suburb of Bentley, about six kilometres south-east of central Perth.
Curtin Midland forms a key component of the state government’s plan to transform Midland’s historic Workshops Precinct into a medical and education hub.
Curtin University Malaysia, situated on the north-west coast of Sarawak was the first foreign university campus to be set up on the island of Borneo; a reflection of our reputation for excellence in South-East Asia.
In Sri Lanka’s vibrant largest city, Curtin University Colombo is our newest global campus. Located next to Gangaramaya Lake, within walking distance of the city centre, Curtin University Colombo offers a range of popular courses.
When the Western Australian Institute of Technology (WAIT) began teaching students in 1967, it drew on a rich history of technical education in Western Australia to offer industry-focused higher education courses to a booming post-war population. The key organisational milestones in our subsequent journey to becoming the state’s largest and most multicultural university are highlighted below.
1960s
The major infrastructure is completed in 1966 for the Western Australian Institute of Technology (WAIT) at Bentley, on Noongar land that is the site of the former Collier Pine Plantation. The WAIT Act receives assent in December, with a mandate for the new institution to provide practically focused higher education courses, relevant to the needs of industry.
The establishment of WAIT effectively splits the Perth Technical College in two, with those courses not transferring to WAIT remaining in the reduced-sized technical college, later to become Central TAFE.
Past leaders
As WAIT directors and Curtin Vice-Chancellors, these esteemed individuals have helped shape the direction of the developing institution.
Curtin has been fortunate to have been led by some very bold and progressive leaders over the course of its history.
In its earlier days as the Western Australian Institute of Technology, the day-to-day running of the organisation was the responsibility of the WAIT Director. Broader strategic direction was provided by the WAIT Council, led by a Chairperson who was generally a high-profile member of the external community.
When WAIT transitioned to Curtin University the title of Director changed to Vice-Chancellor, in line with existing university traditions, and the position of Chair of Council changed to Chancellor.
Values, vision and strategy
Values
Our five core values are integrity, respect, courage, excellence and impact.
There are several costs to consider before you start your application. We can help you plan your budget and provide information on how much your course will cost.
Understanding your fees
Gain a better understanding of the types of fees you could incur and how you should budget for living expenses.
There are many secure payment options available to make it easy for you to pay your fees. Curtin also offers plenty of payment assistance alternatives to help pay for tuition fees.
If you are a domestic student, you may be eligible for a range of subsidies, loans and scholarships provided by the Australian Government and Curtin University.
HELP loans
There are four different types of HELP loans available to students.
Your eligibility for each type of loan depends on what it is being used for and your citizenship and residency status.
HECS-HELP
HECS-HELP is a government loan that allows you to defer payment of the required student contribution for your tuition fees. The loan does not cover costs like accommodation, laptops or textbooks and repayment is made once your salary meets or exceeds the minimum threshold.
HECS-HELP is available for all undergraduate courses and a select number of postgraduate courses. You must be enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place, meet the citizen and residency requirements and have a tax file number.
FEE-HELP is a loan available to eligible domestic students enrolled in a domestic fee-paying place. that are not subsidised by the Government and tuition fees are set by the approved providers.
FEE-HELP is available for postgraduate courses and select enabling and bridging courses. You must be enrolled at Curtin University, meet the citizen and residency requirements and have a tax file number.
To apply, you will need to submit a FEE-HELP eCaf as part of your course acceptance process.
Curtin University will assess your eligibility for a HELP loan against the OS-HELP criteria. If you have any questions, please contact Curtin University.
To get an OS-HELP loan, you will need a tax file number and an OS-HELP debt confirmation form, which Curtin University will give you.
Financial support for placements
Commonwealth Prac Payment available
You may be eligible to receive weekly financial support during mandatory placements to help with travel, accommodation or lost income. Find out more about eligible courses, when payments begin and how to apply.
Curtin’s scholarship program rewards academic excellence, supports meaningful research and enables students from all backgrounds to realise their potential.
What does ‘alumni’ mean and how do I use it in a sentence?
We know it’s a tricky word – but we’ve got you!
Alumni (noun, pronounced uh-LUHM-nai) is the plural term for a group of graduates from a school, college, or university.
It might sound a little old-fashioned, but its origins are quite lovely.
The word comes from the Latin alere, meaning to nourish or support. Over time, alumni came to mean pupils or nurslings.
Traditionally, the singular forms are:
Alumnus (male)
Alumna (female)
Nowadays, we prefer to use the gender-neutral term graduate, and in more casual settings alum works perfectly too!
You may also hear the term alma mater, which means nourishing mother and refers to the educational institution a graduate attended.
Examples in action:
Curtin has more than 290,000 alumni worldwide
As a graduate from Curtin, you have access to a wide range of exclusive benefits and resources
John is a proud Curtin graduate
Jane, Curtin University alum, now works in fashion and design
A common misconception: Alumni is plural, so “John is a proud Curtin alumni” is incorrect. Instead say, “John is a proud Curtin alumnus/graduate/alum.”
How do I join the alumni community?
When you graduate from Curtin, you automatically become a part of our alumni community of over 290,000 inspiring people spread across more than 160 countries. Your contact information is transferred from Student One to the alumni database soon after your degree is conferred by the University. After which, you’ll receive a welcome email from the Curtin Alumni Team.
To be kept in the loop about benefits, opportunities, and resources relevant to you, update your details here.
Why should I stay connected with Curtin after I graduate?
Great question!
Staying connected with Curtin offers value on many levels.
Your Curtin connection can open doors to powerful professional and personal networks, leading to unexpected opportunities. You might meet a mentor at an alumni event, connect with someone searching for talent just like you, or be inspired by fellow graduates making a real impact. The strength of your Curtin degree within our global community should not be underestimated—it’s an advantage you’ll carry for life.
You’ll also have opportunities to give back and get involved—whether through mentoring, volunteering, or supporting a Curtin cause that’s close to your heart. Plus, your achievements—in both work and life—may be celebrated through alumni stories, speaking opportunities, or our prestigious Alumni Awards program.
More than anything, staying connected means being part of something bigger. As a Curtin graduate, you belong to a global community dedicated to shaping a better future—through teaching, research, and meaningful engagement. A community that embraces diversity and inclusion. A community committed to reconciliation and global sustainability.
How can I receive alumni communications from you?
If you are not receiving communications from the Curtin Alumni team, we may not have your latest contact details. You can update your details here.
How do I sign up for Alumni Library Membership?
Information about the Alumni library membership and how to sign up is available here.
How do I update my details?
Click the button below and fill out the form to update your details.
Make sure to keep your details updated with Curtin so you can keep receiving the latest events, opportunities, initiatives, ground-breaking discoveries, exciting Curtin news, and much more to your preferred email address.
If you need to update your details again (i.e. if you moved interstate or overseas, got a new mobile number/email address, etc.), simply re-submit this form with your newest information to stay in-touch and be the first to hear about the latest events, opportunities and other exiting news straight to your inbox.
I would like to provide feedback or make a suggestion on alumni program offerings
Send an email to the Curtin Alumni team via alumni@curtin.edu.au with your feedback or suggestion on our programs, events or other offerings.
How to apply as an international student
1. Gather your documents
Have your supporting documents to hand, and ensure they meet our guidelines. The documents may include certified copies of your qualifications, proof of English language proficiency and supplementary forms for certain courses.
If your documents are not issued in English, translation from a recognised translation service must be provided.
If you have undertaken previous study or work that matches the content of some of your Curtin course units, you may be able to obtain credit for recognised learning, which exempts you from studying those units.
English language proficiency
You must provide your test score in one of our recognised English tests, such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, CAE or OET, and a copy of your passport photo page.
If you do not have an English test score, you can request to take our online placement test called Password* to determine your current level of English.
Agents can request a Password test on your behalf by contacting us via this form.
If you have problems contacting a representative/agent in your region, please contact us.
*Password is not a proficiency test and cannot be used to meet the English proficiency requirements of Curtin’s degree courses. However, the test will help you determine which Curtin English course(s) you need to complete before you can start your degree course
When you don’t meet the English language proficiency requirements
If you have not yet achieved the required English proficiency level for your degree, consider studying at Curtin English to get to the level you need to start your degree.
You can apply for a Curtin English pathway at the same time as you apply for your degree and receive a conditional offer that packages your degree course with your Curtin English pathway.
Begin your application directly to Curtin by creating an account and logging into our online application portal.
When completing your application, you will be asked the following question: “Should you not meet the English language requirements for your course, would you like to be considered for a Curtin English pathway?”
By responding yes, you will automatically receive a packaged offer with the required Curtin English pathway based on the English test results you submit during your application. This is where you can submit your password results or results from any of the accepted English tests. You will only receive a packaged offer if a Curtin English pathway is required.
3. Accept your Curtin offer
If your application is successful, you will receive an offer that you will need to accept or reject.
If you accept your offer, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment – a document from Curtin that details your course, how long you will be studying the course, and the tuition fees. This document can be used for acquiring a student visa.
If you selected that you would like a Curtin English pathway package and are eligible, you will receive a conditional offer that packages your degree with your Curtin English pathway.
4. Apply for your visa
Apply to the Australian government for your student visa. Gaining a student visa will allow you to participate in full-time study in Australia and work up to 48 hours in a fortnight*. If you’re under 18 years of age, you must have approved accommodation and welfare arrangements in place before a visa can be issued.
What happens to my student email after I graduate?
Previously, graduates retained lifetime access to their student email account. Due to recent Microsoft licensing changes, graduates will no longer have access to their student email account. If you are a graduate, your email access will have ceased on 30 November 2021.
Your academic email access ceases 90 days from when your course is set to complete. Your course completion date can be found at the bottom of your Academic eRecord or Academic Transcript.
If you are terminated from your course, you will lose access to your student email account after 90 days.
If your course status is set to AWOL or you withdraw at course level, you will lose access immediately.
Note that access to your Curtin Student email account and relevant drives (I: Drive, R: Drive etc.) will expire at the same time as your access to Microsoft Office 365 Education, as specified above. You will need to backup any important files, emails etc. prior to your loss of access, and any forwarding rules or auto-responses you have active will no longer function. Access cannot be extended once expired.
When do I lose access to my OASIS account?
You will retain lifetime access to OASIS, but your level of access will depend on your enrolment status.
If you withdraw from your course, are set to AWOL (absent without leave), are terminated or set to cancelled, you will lose access to the full version of OASIS access after 45 days. You are advised to redirect your student emails, save work, and download documents such as your Academic eRecord, eInvoices, and eCANS if you fall into one of these categories.
Your on-going access to the base version of OASIS will enable you to apply for courses and purchase official documents in the future.
Your access to Microsoft Office 365 Education will be determined by your course status. Students will have access while their course status is set to admitted, this includes students that have an approved leave of absence in place. If you are no longer admitted into a course, you will lose access after a set time period:
▪ Graduating students lose access 90 days after their course is set to passed. You can check the bottom of your Academic eRecord for the date your course was completed. ▪ Terminated students will lose access 90 days from when their course status is set to terminated.
▪ Students set to absent without leave (AWOL) will lose access immediately after their course status is set to AWOL.
▪ Students who have withdrawn at course level will lose access 90 days from final course withdrawal processing.
▪ New students who are not admitted into their course yet, will not have access until they have accepted their offer and their course status has changed to admitted.
Note that access to your Curtin Student email account and relevant drives (I: Drive, R: Drive etc.) will expire at the same time as your access to Microsoft Office 365 Education, as specified above. You will need to backup any important files, emails etc. prior to your loss of access, and any forwarding rules or auto-responses you have active will no longer function. Access cannot be extended once expired.
How do I abbreviate my Curtin degree (my post nominal)?
Post nominals are the approved abbreviation of your award. Once your award has been conferred, you can use the post nominal after your name. The Awards and Graduation Manual provides details on how post nominals can be used.
The correct post nominal letters that apply to your course are provided in Curtin Handbook with your course information (refer to the “Award code” within your course Handbook).
For awards conferred before 1992, or for qualifications that are unable to be verified on through the verification service platform, please contact Curtin Connect.
Studying in Australia: Your Guide to Universities, Programs, and Student Visas
Australia is a popular destination for international students, offering quality education, diverse campuses, and vibrant cities. From affordable universities to top-ranked institutions, Australia has something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know about studying in Australia.
Top Universities in Australia
Australia’s Top Universities
Australia is home to some world-renowned universities, consistently ranking among the best globally. Australian National University (ANU), University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and University of Queensland are a few examples of prestigious institutions that attract international students.
QLD Universities
Queensland offers a range of universities, including Griffith University, James Cook University in Brisbane, and Central Queensland University. These institutions provide various programs suited to different interests and career paths.
Universities in Perth, Australia
Perth is a vibrant city with reputable universities such as Edith Cowan University (ECU), Murdoch University, and University of Western Australia. Known for their high quality of education, these universities offer excellent options for both local and international students.
University in Melbourne List
Melbourne is a hub for quality education with universities like Deakin University, University of Melbourne, and RMIT University, each offering diverse programs and a dynamic student life.
University in Brisbane, Australia
Brisbane hosts renowned institutions like Griffith University and James Cook University, providing a range of study options with excellent facilities and support for international students.
Universities in Sydney, Australia
Sydney is home to leading universities, including the University of Sydney, University of New South Wales (UNSW), and Macquarie University.
Affordable and Cheapest Universities in Australia
Cheapest University in Australia
For those on a budget, Australia offers affordable education options without compromising quality. Central Queensland University and Edith Cowan University are known for providing affordable programs.
Low-Cost Universities in Australia
Universities like Western Sydney University and Victoria University offer lower tuition fees, making education accessible for international students.
Affordable Universities in Australia
Many Australian universities provide scholarships and affordable courses. University of Sunshine Coast and Charles Darwin University are among those that offer value without high costs.
Popular Programs and Courses in Australia
Masters Degrees and Programs in Australia
Australia offers a wide range of master’s programs in fields like IT, business, engineering, and more. Universities such as University of Queensland and Monash University offer specialized programs designed to boost your career prospects.
MBA in Australia Cost
The cost of pursuing an MBA in Australia varies by institution, with top programs available at University of Melbourne and Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM). While MBA programs can be expensive, many universities offer financial aid and scholarships.
Best IT University in Australia
Australia’s top IT programs can be found at institutions like University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and RMIT University, providing cutting-edge knowledge and skills for a career in tech.
MBBS Cost in Australia
Medical education in Australia is rigorous and offers high-quality training. The cost of an MBBS in Australia is typically high but provides excellent career opportunities globally.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students
Many Australian universities offer scholarships specifically for Indian students. Scholarships can help reduce tuition costs, making education more accessible for international students.
Student Visas and Living Costs
Student Visas Australia
To study in Australia, you’ll need a student visa. The visa application process is straightforward, but it’s essential to meet the requirements for acceptance. Ensure you apply early to secure your visa on time.
Living Cost in Australia for International Students
Living expenses vary depending on the city. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive, while places like Brisbane and Perth offer more affordable options. On average, international students should budget for accommodation, food, and other personal expenses.
Universities by Location and Specialty
Griffith University (Queensland)
Known for its research and industry connections, Griffith offers a variety of programs in fields like health, business, and environmental studies.
Deakin University (Melbourne)
Deakin is popular among international students for its flexible learning options and strong support services.
James Cook University (Brisbane)
Located in Queensland, James Cook is recognized for its programs in tropical health, marine science, and environmental studies.
Edith Cowan University (ECU) (Perth)
ECU provides a range of programs and is known for its focus on teaching quality and graduate outcomes.
Murdoch University (Perth)
Murdoch offers a student-centered approach and is known for courses in law, psychology, and veterinary science.
List of Australian one of the Best Universities
For a complete list of universities, Australia has a diverse range of institutions across various cities. Here are some popular ones:
Central Queensland University: Known for affordability and strong industry ties.
University of Western Australia: Highly regarded for research and academic excellence.
CQ University: Offers practical, career-focused courses in multiple disciplines
