Group of Eight Universities in Australia
Australia's Group of Eight (Go8) universities are renowned for academic excellence and research leadership, making them top choices for higher education and innovation.
Australia's Group of Eight (Go8) universities are renowned for academic excellence and research leadership, making them top choices for higher education and innovation.
The Group of Eight (Go8) universities in Australia have a primary focus on shaping long-term sustainable higher education policies and nurturing strong international collaborations and research alliances. The Go8 Directorate is headquartered in Canberra, Australia, and is led by Chief Executive Vicki Thomson.
Annually, these leading Australian universities allocate more than $6 billion to research endeavors, with a significant portion, exceeding $2 billion, dedicated to medical and health services research. Collectively, these prestigious institutions attract over 440,000 students each year, constituting a substantial 26% of total university admissions in Australia.
Eligibility criteria for admission to Group of Eight (Go8) universities in Australia may vary slightly from one institution to another, so it's advisable for candidates to visit the respective university websites for specific requirements. However, here are some common admission prerequisites for Go8 universities in Australia:
Remember to check each university's specific admission requirements for the course you're interested in, as they may have unique criteria.
Below, you'll find information about the eight prestigious universities that make up the Group of Eight Universities in Australia (Go8 Universities in Australia). We've provided details about each university, including eligibility criteria, popular courses, and fee structures. You can also click on the university name to access specific information about each institution.
Here is a comparison of the rankings for Group of Eight (Go8) universities in Australia for the year 2023, as per QS and THE ranking agencies:
| Group 8 Universities Australia | QS World University Rankings 2023 | Times Higher Education (THE) 2023 Ranking |
| Australian National University | #30 | #62 |
| University of Melbourne | #33 | #34 |
| University of Sydney | #41 | #54 |
| University of New South Wales (UNSW) | #45 | #71 |
| University of Queensland (UQ) | #50 | #53 |
| Monash University | #57 | #44 |
| University of Western Australia (UWA) | #90 | #131 |
| University of Adelaide | #109 | #88 |
Established in 1946, ANU is a prestigious research university that introduced its undergraduate programs in 1960 after merging with Canberra College. Initially, ANU consisted of four divisions: the School of Physical Sciences, the School of Social Science, the School of Pacific Science, and the School of Medical Research. In 1954, ANU opened its first student residence, primarily serving postgraduate students and faculty members. ANU is renowned for its dynamic extracurricular and cultural activities, managed by the university's council.
ANU comprises seven colleges, all dedicated to research and education. Oversight of academic affairs falls under the purview of a 15-member council. ANU offers a diverse array of programs, encompassing undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional degrees. Moreover, the campus includes eight residential halls thoughtfully equipped with essential amenities to provide students with a peaceful and conducive learning environment. Below is a listing of courses offered at ANU:
| Course | Duration | Tuition Fee (First Year) in Lakhs |
| MS | 24 months | 15.8L–21L |
| MBA | 18–24 months | 19.1L–22.1L |
| MIM | 24 months | 22.1L |
| MEng | 24 months | 15.8L–21.1L |
| BE/BTech | 36–48 months | 22.3L |
| BSc | 36–48 months | 18L–19.1L |
| MIS | 24 months | 20.1L |
Established in 1853 by Hugh Culling Eardley Childers, Unimelb holds the distinction of being Australia's second-oldest institution for higher education and research. It consistently ranks among the country's top universities. Unimelb goes beyond traditional structured learning, emphasizing practical experiences. Renowned as a forward-thinking research university, it boasts a distinguished faculty engaged in groundbreaking discoveries and research.
Unimelb houses 11 distinct academic institutions, including prestigious research centers such as the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, the Walter and Eliza Institute of Medical Research, and the Grattan Institute. Students at the university have the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects before specializing in their chosen field.
Furthermore, notable alumni of the University of Melbourne include prominent figures like Julia Gillard (former Prime Minister of Australia), Emeritus Professor Gillian Triggs (Human Rights Commissioner), George Megalogenis (political commentator), and Professor Ian H. Frazer (the leader behind the groundbreaking Gardasil vaccine). Here are some of the university's top courses:
| Course | Duration | Tuition Fee (First Year) in Lakhs |
| MS | 24 months | 18.5L–20.3L |
| MBA | 12 to 24 months | 21.6L–43.8L |
| MIM | 24 months | 21.6L |
| MEng | 24 months | 21.1L |
| BE/BTech | 36 months | 21.3L |
| BSc | 36 months | 21L–21.3L |
| MIS | 24 months | 20.2L |
| MEM | 12 months | 21.1L |
Please note that the tuition fees are subject to change and may vary based on specific programs or other factors.
Founded in 1850, the University of Sydney (USyd) holds a distinguished status as a premier global research institution. It consistently secured a spot among the world's top universities and obtained a Royal Charter from Queen Victoria in 1858, elevating its degrees to the same level of recognition as those from UK universities. USyd's extensive campus encompasses multiple faculties, including Science, Social Work, Pharmacy, Arts, Economics, Architecture, and the recently introduced Veterinary Science program.
USyd offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, encompassing professional, specialist, and liberal studies degrees. These programs span a diverse array of fields, such as art and social sciences, architecture, design and planning, business, medicine and health, social work, and music. Students benefit from a dedicated faculty, gaining valuable exposure to the research industry. The university frequently hosts expert professionals who contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the curriculum. It's essential to note that course availability and specific details may evolve, so referring to the university's official website for the latest information is advisable.
| Course | Duration | Tuition Fee (First Year) in Lakhs |
| MS | 12 to 36 months | 18.4L–24L |
| MBA | 12 to 24 months | 19.6L–32.8L |
| MIM | 12 to 18 months | 21.3L–22.8L |
| MEng | 18 months | 21.8L–22.5L |
| BE/BTech | 36–60 months | 19.2L–21.8L |
| BSc | 36–48 months | 16.2L–22L |
| MEM | 12 months | 21.1L |
| MA | 12 to 24 months | 17.4L–20.6L |
| BBA | 12 to 36 months | 18.8L–19.8L |
Founded in 1949, UNSW is an open research university initially known as the New South Wales University of Technology. Its establishment aimed to address the evolving technological needs of the era. In 1949, the Parliament of New South Wales granted it statutory status, enabling funding for campus infrastructure. Classes commenced a year later with 46 enrolled students, and UNSW later expanded with colleges in Newcastle and Wollongong.
UNSW provides a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various fields. The Faculty of Law, Faculty of Art & Design, Faculty of Business School, Faculty of Art & Social Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Engineering, and Faculty of Science are just a few of the departments that oversee these programs. The university's diverse course offerings empower students to select subjects aligned with their interests. Moreover, dedicated faculty members ensure students acquire practical knowledge in their respective fields. Below are some of the popular courses:
Please note that course availability and details may be subject to change, so it's advisable to refer to the university's official website for the most up-to-date information.
| Course | Duration | Tuition Fee (First Year) in Lakhs |
| MS | 24 months | 11.2L–23.1L |
| MBA | 16–24 months | 15.3L–25.8L |
| MIM | 18 months | 21.9L |
| MEng | 24 months | 22.4L–22.9L |
| BE/BTech | 48 months | 22.6L |
| MFin | 12 months | 16.7L |
| BBA | 12 to 36 months | 18.8L–19.8L |
Please note that tuition fees may vary, and it's advisable to check with the university for the most up-to-date information.
As one of Australia's premier universities, UQ stands out for its commitment to exceptional teaching and research. It holds the distinction of receiving more national teaching awards than any other university in Australia. Located in Brisbane, a city rapidly evolving into a focal point for business, investments, major events, and education in the Asia-Pacific region, UQ offers students the unique advantage of having World Heritage rainforests, mountain ranges, and beautiful beaches in close proximity.
UQ boasts six faculties, eight globally renowned research institutes, and over 100 research centers, creating a vibrant interdisciplinary community of 1,500 scientists, social scientists, and engineers who contribute to UQ's esteemed research legacy. Discover more about the courses offered at UQ below:
Please note that specific course details may be subject to change, so it's advisable to visit the university's official website for the most current information.
Course |
Duration |
Tuition Fee (First Year) in Lakhs |
| MS | 12 to 24 months | 20.1L–22.1L |
| MBA | 12 to 18 months | 20.7L–39.6L |
| MEM | 24 months | 22.1L |
| MEng | 24 months | 22.1L |
| BE/BTech | 36–48 months | 22.1L |
| BHM | 36 months | 22.1L |
| BBA | 36 months | 20.7L |
| BSc | 48 months | 21.3L–22.4L |
Please note that tuition fees and course duration may vary, so it's advisable to verify the most up-to-date information on the university's official website.
Monash University, an institution established in 1958, is a globally recognized university with a presence in various countries, including Italy (Prato), India (Mumbai), and China (Suzhou). The university encompasses diverse departments, including those specializing in forensic medicine, epidemiology and preventive medicine, and physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
On its sprawling campus, Monash University houses faculties that cover a wide spectrum of disciplines, including engineering, law, arts, business, economics, health sciences, and IT. Impressively, the university boasts an illustrious alumni roster that includes prominent individuals such as Anna Burke (former Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives), Simon Crean (former Cabinet member in the Rudd Government), David De Krester (Governor of Australia), Ian Macfarlane (Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia), Lim Guan Eng (Minister of Finance, Malaysia), and Doug Chappel (comedian and actor).
Please keep in mind that course availability and specific details may change over time, so it's advisable to refer to the university's official website for the latest information.
| Course | Duration | Tuition Fee (First Year) in Lakhs |
| MS | 12 to 24 months | 18.7L–21.7L |
| MBA | 24 months | 18.5L–22.4L |
| MIM | 18 months | 22.3L |
| MIS | 24 months | 20.3L |
| BE/BTech | 36–60 months | 15.2L–21.7L |
| BSc | 36–48 months | 19.5L–22L |
| BBA | 36 months | 21.2L |
Established in 1911, the University of Western Australia is a distinguished open research university sprawled over 160 acres of land. It offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral-level courses. Moreover, UWA enriches its curriculum with specialized courses that enhance the educational experience.
UWA takes pride in its illustrious alumni, including notable figures like Fiona Wood (renowned as the Australian of the Year for 2005), Rod Eddington (former CEO of Ansett Airlines), Stephen Smith (former Labor Federal Minister), Cheryl Praeger (recognized as Scientist of the Year in 2009), and Tim Minchin (a celebrated Australian comedian).
| Course | Duration | Tuition Fee (First Year) in Lakhs |
| MS | 18–36 months | 19.1L–23.8L |
| MBA | 16–24 months | 21L–21.9L |
| MEng | 12 to 24 months | 26.5L |
| BE/BTech | 36 months | 17.9L–18.5L |
| BSc | 36 months | 17.9L |
The University of Adelaide, founded in 1874, stands as one of Australia's oldest open universities. It boasts five campuses, with the main one located on North Terrace. To meet students' daily needs, these campuses are conveniently close to restaurants, cafes, pharmacies, and other necessary stores. The North Terrace campus even offers on-campus housing for both students and faculty, along with the renowned Barr Smith Library.
Academically, the university is organized into five faculties: health and medical sciences, arts, mathematics, professions, and sciences. Within these faculties, various schools offer a diverse range of subjects, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests.
| Course | Duration | Tuition Fee (First Year) in Lakhs |
| MBBS | 72 months | 37.2L |
| MS | 12 to 24 months | 18.8L |
| MBA | 12 to 24 months | 18.8L–21.5L |
| MEng | 24 months | 19.6L |
| BBA | 36 months | 17.1L |
| BSc | 36 months | 17.1L |
In conclusion, the Group of Eight (Go8) universities in Australia represent a league of extraordinary institutions that stand at the forefront of higher education and research. With a rich legacy of academic excellence, these universities offer a plethora of programs across various fields, ensuring that students receive world-class education and research opportunities.
Embarking on this educational journey with Go8 promises a bright future and a remarkable learning experience. At Maxxcell Overseas, our dedicated team is committed to helping you choose the right university and the perfect course that aligns with your ambitions. We understand that the application process, especially for international students, can be daunting, but with Maxxcell Overseas by your side, you can navigate it seamlessly.
From assisting with visa applications to ensuring that all your documentation is in order, Maxxcell Overseas provides comprehensive support to make your admission process hassle-free. So, connect with us today, and let's embark on this exciting journey together.