To gain direct admission to Flinders University, you must meet our required academic and English proficiency requirements.
Academic entry requirements
Undergraduate
To gain direct general admission to an undergraduate course at Flinders, you must have successfully completed a recognised secondary education qualification overseas or in Australia, and satisfy our English language proficiency requirements.
To enrol as a student at Flinders University in a postgraduate course, you must meet the specified academic entry requirements, as well as the English language proficiency requirements.
Generally, to apply for a Doctor of Philosophy or Masters by Research entry you need a university degree plus a postgraduate qualification (at least AQF level 8 or 9) with a significant research component.
International students must satisfy our English language proficiency requirements for admission. If your first language is not English you will need to have:
Achieved the required test score for the course you are applying for. The IELTS (Academic) and equivalent scores to meet the various levels are shown in the table below. IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, DET and Cambridge tests must be taken in a registered testing centre; or
Successfully completed an approved secondary or tertiary qualification, taught in the English language in a country where English is the official language or the main language spoken (for up to an overall IELTS of 6.5) with evidence no more than five years old on the proposed date of commencement of the course; or
Other evidence of English language proficiency may be accepted.
IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted for all courses.
Please note that OET scores are accepted for applications to coursework programs in selected study areas in the College of Medicine and Public Health and College of Nursing and Heath Sciences only, and for applications to Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology).
#Accepted English language tests for Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-Registration), and Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry) are IELTS (Academic), TOEFL (Internet), Cambridge, PTE (Academic) or OET.
*Not applicable for Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-Registration), or the Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry), or the Bachelor of Midwifery.
Applicants who successfully complete Australian Year 12/IB (either in Australia or offshore) and achieve an ATAR will meet the English language requirements up to and including Level 4 (excluding Nursing and Midwifery courses).
Applicants who successfully complete Australian Year 12/IB (either in Australia or offshore), achieve an ATAR, and pass English as an Additional Language (EAL) or the interstate/IB equivalent, will now meet the English language requirements up to and including Level 5 (excluding Nursing and Midwifery).
To meet the Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-Registration) and Bachelor of Midwifery (Pre-Registration) English language requirements, you must provide approved English language test results or have attended and satisfactorily completed at least six years of primary and secondary education taught and assessed solely in English in a recognised country (Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Ireland, UK), including at least two years between years 7 and 12, as per the Australian nursing registration requirements and the Nursing and Midwifery Board registration standards.
Gaokao entry requirements
We welcome applications from students who have completed the Gaokao. On meeting the required Gaokao score, you should also satisfy any course prerequisites and must meet the English language entry requirements for each course.
If you don’t meet our English language or academic entry requirements, you can still gain entry to Flinders University through our on-campus pathway provider Flinders University Academy.
For over 50 years, Flinders has been a centre of inspiring achievement: from our pioneering research and excellence in teaching to the positive impact we have in the communities we serve.
Inspiration leads to innovation. But innovation is more than just a buzzword at Flinders.
It extends from our founding Vice-Chancellor Peter Karmel’s entreaty to ‘experiment and experiment bravely’ through to the creative, trailblazing work of our staff, students and alumni.
As we enter an era of disruptive change and remarkable technological innovation, Flinders is well prepared for this unpredictable, exciting future.
Our strong network of external links keeps our work dynamic, enabling us to connect across barriers to create enterprising solutions for the future, to make a difference by changing lives and, ultimately, the world.
Flinders Facts
Explore a university with a mission to change lives and change the world.
Flinders has a vision to be internationally recognised as a world leader in research, an innovator in contemporary education, and the source of Australia’s most enterprising graduates.
Established in 1966 on the lands of the Kaurna nation
Main campus located at Bedford Park, with additional Adelaide locations at Flinders’ City Campus at Festival Plaza and Tonsley
Flinders’ footprint extends to Adelaide, regional South Australia, south-west Victoria and the Northern Territory
History
50 years of inspiring achievement and counting.
Flinders University has developed a remarkable record of achievement across an impressive range of endeavour.
Through the diverse efforts of an eclectic cohort of teachers, researchers and graduates, Flinders has exerted a profound and distinctive influence on society and in its various communities.
Just as our namesake Matthew Flinders famously remarked he was not content to rest unnoticed in the middle order, Flinders as an institution has never been content with the status quo; we have always looked for ways to make the world a better place by making a positive difference.
We look forward to your involvement and support as we continue in our pursuit of this ideal.
Flinders University’s organisational structure holds up the four pillars of our strategic plan: People and Culture, Research, Education, and Engagement and Impact.
People and Culture come first at Flinders, and our structure is designed to foster an environment that will nurture achievement and sustain our success. This success depends on the quality of both our Research and the Education we offer and is made possible by the Engagement and Impact accomplished by collaborating with the communities we serve.
Through collaboration between its various areas, Flinders University’s organisational structure lays a solid foundation to inspire achievement.
Senior executive
Flinders University’s Chief Executive is the President and Vice-Chancellor, supported by the senior executive team.
Our mission is to change lives and change the world.
Flinders University’s leadership strives to ensure that we work toward realising our vision and achieve our mission.
Our vision is to become internationally recognised as a world leader in research, an innovator in contemporary education, and the source of Australia’s most enterprising graduates. Our mission: to change lives and change the world.
Flinders is governed by Council.
Council is the principal policy and decision-making body at Flinders, and responds to the University’s needs and interests, as well as those of the wider community. To best carry out this role, the majority of Council members are external to Flinders, while the University is amply represented by executive, academic, professional and student members.
Our annual reports provide a comprehensive record of our activities and performance.
Awards and prizes
We recognise significant contributions to the University through awards and prizes.
Strategy
Our agenda for 2025 is to make a difference.
Flinders’ strategic plan, Making a Difference: The 2025 Agenda, outlines the University’s vision and mission for the coming years.
Flinders University’s vision is to become internationally recognised as a world leader in research, an innovator in contemporary education, and the source of Australia’s most enterprising graduates.
Our mission: to change lives and change the world.
Fees listed are valid for students commencing their studies in the identified academic year and include the University’s Student Service and Amenities Fee (SSAF). Students should be aware that tuition fees will be subject to an increase each year of study at Flinders University.
Course information pages show estimated commencing year tuition fees. Tuition fees will be subject to an increase each calendar year of study at Flinders University. In the event of a variation between the fee advertised on the course information page and the approved university schedule of tuition fees, the approved university schedule will prevail.
Fees for combined and double bachelor/postgraduate degrees
Combined degrees and double bachelor/postgraduate degrees have two separate fees for the two separate components of the course. For combined degrees, eg. the Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice, the topics required for the Bachelor of Science will be charged at the standard Bachelor of Science rate. The topics required for the Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice component will be charged at the Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice rate. The total course fee for a combined degree will depend on how many topics from each degree are required.
Double bachelor/postgraduate degree courses (eg. the Bachelor of Clinical Science/Doctor of Medicine) also have two distinct fees. The bachelor fee applies to the undergraduate component and once you progress to the postgraduate component the postgraduate fee will be charged. The total course fee for a double bachelor/postgraduate degree course will be an addition of the two course fees.
Refer to the university schedule of tuition fees for the fees for individual courses.
All Courses
Flinders University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships to support international students to pursue their educational and career goals.
Search our range of Flinders, government and privately funded scholarships offered for commencing and graduating international students.
International High School Scholarships Australia
Flinders International High School Scholarships Australia are designed to recognise international students with high academic performance who are studying an Australian high school curriculum or an equivalent qualification overseas, either onshore in Australia or offshore, who commence an undergraduate course with Flinders.
If you are currently studying a Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Associate Degree or similar qualification, you could be eligible for a 20% full duration scholarship to study at Flinders.
If you are a Flinders University Alumni, you could be eligible for a 20% full duration scholarship to study another undergraduate or postgraduate degree at Flinders.
Flinders University works with a range of Australian and foreign government and industry scholarship programs to provide opportunities for eligible international students to have their studies at Flinders sponsored.
Undergraduate applications are usually processed within 48 hours during working days. However, there may be a slight delay during peak application periods.
Postgraduate applications are usually processed within 48 hours during working days.
However, there may be a slight delay during peak application periods. Research applications can take up to eight weeks to process.
What happens if my application is not successful?
If your application is not successful, you will be notified by the university or via your education agent.
Depending on the reason for an unsuccessful application, you may be able to consider alternative Flinders University study options.
I want to accept my offer. What do I do?
If you wish to accept the offer from the University you must complete the acceptance form in your offer letter and pay the semester tuition fee. If the offer is conditional you cannot complete this process until all conditions are met. Once this documentation and payments are received the relevant documentation will be sent to you to apply for your student visa.
You will receive a series of emails leading up to the final day to accept your offer in order to ensure that you are aware of the upcoming deadline.
I have already got an offer for one program but want to change to another program? What do I have to do?
If you want to change your program, you will need to email your current application requesting a change of course or contact your agent to do so. You will not need to lodge a new application, however, you may also have to lodge additional documents for the new course if the requirements are different.
Upon receipt of the new application, it will be processed accordingly and you will be advised of the outcome by mail.
What do I need to do if I wish to defer my admission?
If you have been made an offer to the University and for some reason, you cannot take up the offer at the date specified in the offer letter you may request a deferral of your admission. To defer your admission, simply email your current Flinders application and our admissions team will liaise with you depending on where you are in the acceptance process of your application.
If you wish to defer after you receive a CoE, you may provide evidence of compelling compassionate circumstances which will be considered by our admissions and compliance team.
Please note, that research offers can be deferred for a maximum of one year. After that, you will have to lodge a new application. The following courses can not be deferred:
Bachelor of Clinical Science/Doctor of Medicine
Bachelor Health Sciences / Master of Occupational Therapy
Bachelor of Health Sciences / Master of Physiotherapy
Bachelor of Health Sciences (Vision Science), Master of Optometry
Bachelor of Midwifery (Preregistration)
Bachelor of Medical Science (Laboratory Medicine)
Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics
Bachelor of Paramedicine
Bachelor of Speech Pathology
Master of Audiology
Master of Business by research
Master of Clinical Education by research
Doctor of Medicine
Master of Nutrition and Dietetics
Master of Occupational Therapy
Master of Physiotherapy
Master of Speech Pathology
I have a conditional offer from last year and now I have got my English results. Can I use the letter to join the University?
Our offer letters are only valid for the semester or commencement date stated in the letter. If you have not responded or previously requested to defer your commencement, the conditional offer of admission will have lapsed. In this case, you will have to reapply and the new application will be reassessed in accordance with any new admission criteria that are currently effective. If the requirements have been raised and you have not been able to reach the revised standard, you may have a different outcome for your new application.
How can I get my documents required for application certified?
All academic documents submitted to Flinders applications must be certified. You can get your documents certified by authorised persons in Australia or overseas.
Persons authorised to certify documents within Australia include:
a Justice of the Peace (currently registered in Australia)
a barrister or solicitor
a police officer
an employee of Australia Post
a Flinders International staff member
an official Flinders University agent.
Persons authorised to certify documents outside Australia include:
an Australian Embassy official or Australian Consular official
the registrar of the university that issued the transcript or parchment
a Flinders University staff member
an official Flinders University agent
a Notary Public (excluding India and Nepal).
If you are unable to get transcripts certified, your current institution can email our admissions team directly.
Can I apply without an agent?
It is not mandatory to apply through an education agent, but most students prefer to use an agent to assist them with a smoother application process.
However, if you are from one of the countries listed here, you are required to apply via an education agent. If you reside onshore in Australia, you will not require an agent even if you are from the countries listed above.
If there is not an agency in your country, please contact us for further advice.
How long will it take for the CoE to be issued after payment is made?
Once payment has been received, you should receive your CoE within 5 working days. There may be a slight delay during peak application periods.
How many intakes are there for my course?
The number of intakes is dependent on each individual course. For more information on individual courses, you can explore our study area pages here.
You can also download our 2025 course guide for a breakdown of all courses available to international students and their entry requirements.
I haven’t received my visa yet, can I start my course late or online?
Online study is currently not available for international students due to visa conditions.
If your visa is granted once the semester has already commenced, our admissions team will be in contact to determine the next steps depending on the course you have enrolled in.
What’s the latest date I need to be in Australia before I start my course?
It is recommended you arrive no later than 2 weeks in advance from the date written on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) letter.
I’m coming to Adelaide with my family, what is the process?
Family members may be included in your application for a student visa and be assessed for visa entry at the same time. For more information about including family members when lodging your visa application please visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
To find out more about childcare options and parenting facilities at the Bedford Park campus please click here. To find other child care services, you could also use the Australian Government’s Find Child Care tool.
Please note that international students generally don’t meet the residence rules to be eligible for the Australian Government’s childcare subsidy.
If you plan to bring school-aged children as your dependants please click here for information about South Australian Government schools.
If you hold a South Australian Government endorsed scholarship send your completed Tertiary Scholarship Verification Form to iss@flinders.edu.au to have it signed by the University before submitting the application for your child’s enrolment at a South Australian Government school.
Accommodation
What are the accommodation options?
City Accommodation – The Switch
The Switch is the newest and most innovative student accommodation in Adelaide. Re-defined for the younger generation and equipped with world-class amenities in an unbeatable inner CBD location – just a 22-minute train ride from Bedford Park Campus and 5 minute walk from Flinders’ new city campus. There are also exclusive discounts available for Flinders students.
On campus – Flinders Living
The Flinders campus is safe, affordable and convenient. By living on-campus at Flinders Living, you will be part of a diverse community of students. You can live in University Hall, or Deirdre Jordan Village – with a 5-minute walk to your classes and access to 24-hour student welfare support. Find out more here.
Rental and house sharing
If you are over 18 years old you can rent your own place or share with friends or housemates. This can be a fun way to meet new people and integrate into Adelaide – Flinders International Student Services can assist you with your search for off-campus accommodation by providing a rental reference if required. Find out more here.
How do I book accommodation after I’ve accepted my offer?
The University has housing available on campus for students at Flinders Living, in either University Hall or the Deirdre Jordan Village.
If you want to apply for on-campus housing you must lodge your application and references by mid-December if starting in semester 1, or mid-May if starting in semester 2.
Applications will be ranked and you will be notified if you are offered a place usually about 1 month after lodging your application. If you apply after these dates you may still be offered a place depending on availability, but may find that the on-campus accommodation is fully booked. If you live on campus you will sign a housing contract per semester or year. Note if you only sign a semester contract, you will pay an extra cost.
How do I find temporary accommodation?
Just in case it is not possible to book into Flinders Living, you can book accommodation through a temporary accommodation provider – for students on a budget, we recommend a backpackers, or budget hostel. View information about temporary accommodation.
Please note that the University does not book accommodation for students. You must arrange and book your own accommodation before you leave your home country. This is important as you may be asked to provide your accommodation details to the Department of Immigration on arrival in Australia.
Student Support
What student support and services are available at Flinders?
The International Student Services team (ISS) is the first point of contact for all international students. The team can assist with supporting your study, social life, campus referrals, and organising information sessions and activities. For students experiencing challenges adjusting to studying abroad, the ISS team can provide one-on-one appointments to help support students.
Flinders also offers a range of support services that cover health and wellbeing, study assistance, security, technology, and much more. Click here to see the full range of support and services available at Flinders University.
Does Flinders offer a Meet and Greet Service for new arrivals to Adelaide?
For newly arrived International Students, the Flinders International Student Services team offers a free meet-and-greet service. This service involved a team member greeting you upon arrival at Adelaide Airport, the Adelaide Parklands Terminal (interstate train), or the Adelaide Central Bus Station.
Our team member will provide you with an arrival pack, and assist you in organising transport to your accommodation. You must book your meet and greet at least 5 days in advance.
Where can I find out more information about my course?
You can find detailed information about your individual course by exploring our study area pages here. Each study area page features available courses, what you will study, and specialised brochures you can download.
You can also download our 2025 course guide for a breakdown of all courses available to international students and their entry requirements.
Does the university provide internship opportunities?
Flinders degrees offer real-life industry opportunities that give students the chance to gain experience in their field and secure a job in the future. This is offered through the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Program.
WIL can provide practical experience in over 25 industries and can take place in the form of clinical placements, internships, field education, vocational and professional practice, and projects with industry and community organisations.
I am a current student. Where can I get information on finance matters?
Flinders offers a wide range of financial and administrative support to help you through your studies. Please click here for further information.
What is the average cost of living in Adelaide?
For more detailed information and to work out your estimated cost of living in Adelaide, you can visit this cost of living calculator.
Pathway options
What if I don’t meet the entry requirements?
If you do not meet entry requirements for your desired degree, Flinders University Academy will provide you with a direct pathway into the destination degree of your choice.
Flinders University offers scholarships for international students with high academic performance and the potential to make a positive contribution to Flinders and the global community.
There are a variety of different scholarships that have different eligibility requirements – you can find out more about our scholarships and eligibility or apply directly here.
All Courses
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
