Australian National University Admission Requirements
Australia's National University - Research Excellence
ATAR Score
80-99
Program dependent
International GPA
3.0-3.9+/4.0
Faculty specific
Global Ranking
#34
QS World Universities
About Australian National University
The Australian National University (ANU) is Australia's national university, established by the Australian Parliament in 1946. Located in Canberra, the nation's capital, ANU consistently ranks among the world's top universities and is renowned for its research excellence and academic rigor. As Australia's only national university, ANU has a unique mandate to serve the nation through research, education, and public policy engagement. The university attracts some of the world's brightest minds and offers an intellectually stimulating environment in the heart of Australia's political and cultural center.
Research Excellence
- National Leadership: Australia's premier research university
- Nobel Laureates: Home to distinguished researchers
- Research Impact: Leading global research output
- Government Links: Close ties to policy and governance
- International Collaboration: Strong global partnerships
Canberra Advantage
- Capital Location: Political and cultural center
- Beautiful Campus: Parkland setting with modern facilities
- Career Opportunities: Government and diplomatic roles
- Quality Life: Planned city with excellent amenities
- Cultural Access: National institutions and galleries
Admission Requirements
ATAR Requirements by College
| Undergraduate Program | ATAR Requirement | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts | 80.00 | English proficiency |
| Bachelor of Science | 85.00 | Mathematics, Science |
| Bachelor of Philosophy | 98.00 | Interview, Portfolio |
| Bachelor of Engineering | 88.00 | Physics, Mathematics |
| Bachelor of Laws | 95.00 | English proficiency |
International Pathways
- A-Levels: AAB to A*A*A depending on program
- IB Diploma: 29-42 points with specific HL requirements
- US System: GPA 3.0-3.9+ with SAT/ACT scores
- Canadian: 85-95% average in Grade 12
- Foundation Programs: ANU College pathways available
English Requirements
- IELTS Academic: Overall 6.5, no band below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 80+ with writing 20+, other sections 18+
- PTE Academic: 64+ with all skills 55+
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced 176+ overall
- English Medium: Exemptions for previous study
Academic Colleges & Schools
Distinctive Academic Structure
ANU is organized into seven academic colleges, each focusing on specific disciplines while encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration. This structure promotes research excellence and provides students with access to leading scholars and cutting-edge facilities. The university's research-intensive approach ensures that undergraduate students learn from world-class researchers at the forefront of their fields.
Arts & Social Sciences
- Anthropology and archaeology
- Political science and international relations
- Languages and literature
- Philosophy and religious studies
- History and cultural studies
- Gender and sexuality studies
Science & Engineering
- Physics and mathematical sciences
- Computer science and information systems
- Biology and environmental science
- Chemistry and materials science
- Engineering and technology
- Astronomy and astrophysics
Professional Studies
- Business and economics
- Law and legal studies
- Public policy and governance
- Medicine and health sciences
- Asia-Pacific studies
- Security and strategic studies
Research Specializations
Global Strengths:
- Climate change and environmental science
- Asia-Pacific security and diplomacy
- Indigenous studies and reconciliation
- Quantum physics and astronomy
- Public policy and governance
Student Benefits:
- Research opportunities from first year
- Small class sizes and personal attention
- Access to national institutions
- Government and diplomatic internships
- International exchange programs
Flagship Programs & Opportunities
Bachelor of Philosophy (PhB)
ANU's most prestigious undergraduate program, designed for exceptional students seeking a research-intensive education. Limited to 30 students annually.
- ATAR requirement: 98.00+
- Personalized curriculum design
- One-on-one mentoring with researchers
- Independent research projects
- Pathway to top graduate programs
National Internship Program
Unique opportunities to work within government departments, national institutions, and international organizations based in Canberra.
- Parliamentary internships
- Government department placements
- Embassy and diplomatic roles
- National cultural institutions
- Research institute positions
Global Programs
Exchange Partnerships
- 150+ partner universities
- Semester and year-long options
- Credit transfer guaranteed
- Scholarship support available
Asia-Pacific Focus
- Strategic regional positioning
- Language immersion programs
- Cultural exchange initiatives
- Regional research collaborations
Professional Development
- Leadership development programs
- Entrepreneurship support
- Career mentoring networks
- Alumni connections globally
Application Process & Timeline
Application Deadlines
- August 1: Applications open for following year
- December 31: Main application deadline
- January 15: Late applications (if places available)
- December-February: Offers released in rounds
- February: Semester 1 orientation and classes begin
- July: Mid-year entry (limited programs)
Application Components
- Academic Records: Certified transcripts required
- English Proficiency: Test results if applicable
- Personal Statement: For competitive programs
- References: Academic or professional
- Portfolio: For arts and design programs
- Application Fee: AUD $100 for international students
Pathway Options
Direct Entry
- Meet ATAR requirements
- Complete prerequisite subjects
- Demonstrate English proficiency
- Submit by deadline
ANU College
- Foundation studies program
- Diploma pathways available
- Guaranteed progression
- Academic support provided
Transfer Options
- From other Australian universities
- International transfer students
- Credit recognition available
- Mid-year entry possible
Your Future at Australian National University
The Australian National University offers an exceptional education in the heart of Australia's capital. With its research-intensive approach, small class sizes, and unique location, ANU provides students with unparalleled opportunities for academic excellence and career development in government, research, and international relations.