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Top 20 Universities in Australia for a Masters in 2026
Written by Taru Medha
University of Melbourne, The University of Sydney, Monash University, Australian National University, UNSW Sydney and The University of Queensland are all in the world top 100 according to the Times Higher Education world rankings for 2026. There are further four universities in the top 200 in the world.
Home to almost 460,000 international students, Australia is one of the world’s most popular study abroad destinations. And with good reason – Australia has an excellent higher education system, with plenty of world-class universities to choose from.
The table on this page gives the top 20 universities in Australia in 2026.
Information is based on the current rankings published by Times Higher Education, QS and the Academic Ranking of World Universities.
Each uses its own methodology. You can find out more in our guide to university rankings for postgraduate study.
| University | THE 2026 | QS 2026 | ARWU 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | 37 | 19 | 38 |
| The University of Sydney | =53 | =25 | 72 |
| Monash University | =58 | =36 | 76 |
| Australian National University | =73 | =32
| 101-150 |
| UNSW Sydney | 79 | 20 | 80 |
| University of Queensland | =80 | =42 | 65 |
| University of Technology Sydney | =145 | 96 | 201-300 |
| University of Western Australia | =153 | 77 | 101-150 |
| Macquarie University | =166 | =138 | 201-300 |
| University of Adelaide | =176 | =82 | 151-200 |
| Deakin University | 201-250 | =207 | 201-300 |
| Queensland University of Technology | 201-250 | 266 | 301-400 |
| University of Wollongong | 201-250 | =184 | 301-400 |
| Curtin University | 251-300 | 183 | 201-300 |
| Griffith University | 251-300 | 301-400 | |
| La Trobe University | 251-300 | =233 | 301-400 |
| RMIT University | 251-300 | 125 | 301-400 |
| Swinburne University of Technology | 251-300 | =294 | 201-300 |
| University of Newcastle | 251-300 | =227 | 401-500 |
| University of Tasmania | 251-300 | =314 | 301-400 |
| Information in this table is based on the latest Times Higher Education World University Rankings, QS World University Rankings and Academic Ranking of World Universities. Visit their websites for more information. | |||
Find out more about the top five universities in Australia
Read our blog and get to know a bit more about what's on offer at the best of the best of Australian universities.
So, how good are Australian universities for Masters study?
Australia performs impressively in the three main world university rankings, with six institutions featuring in the top 100 of each league table. Australia more than earns its place as one of the most popular destinations for international postgraduates, combining research and teaching excellence.
You could also take a look at global university rankings by subject if you’re trying to judge the suitability of a particular university for your programme. Masters qualifications are often highly specialised, so the quality of an individual department might be more important than the overall performance of a university.
Tips from the author
Whether you already know which university you’re going to, or you’re just browsing, hopefully this page has given you something to aim for!
The numbers on the rankings tables are usually a very good indicator, but my biggest advice would be to not get blinded by them.
I’ll give you my example. I studied in the UK, as an international student, but not necessarily at the highest ranked one from the list of offers I’d received. I can surely say that had no impact on my education.
So, what else did I look for? I looked at the course content, subject expertise, student experience, cost of living and career opportunities when I was deciding on my Masters university. Trusting your instincts counts for a lot too!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there scholarships available for Masters students at these universities?
Yes. Most Australian universities offer scholarships and bursaries. These could be based on subject, nationality, merit, economic situation and more. You can also apply for government funding and international scholarships which may not be affiliated with your university but can help fund your Masters.
What support services are available for international students?
Australian universities offer a range of services, including academic support, counselling, career guidance and accommodation assistance to help international students settle in and succeed.
Do Australian universities offer part-time or online Masters courses?
Yes, many universities offer flexible learning options, including part-time study or online/hybrid Masters courses, especially in business, education, and IT. However, if you’re an international student, check your student visa conditions before committing.
Search for a Masters in Australia
Ready to start looking for your ideal study abroad opportunity? Browse and compare Masters degrees in Australia on FindAMasters.com.
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Taru Medha
Taru joined FindAMasters as a Content Writer in 2022. She creates well-researched, thorough content for our guides and blogs, as well as short video content for our social profiles. She has a Bachelors degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Bennett University in India and completed a Masters degree in Global Journalism from the University of Sheffield in 2021, giving her personal experience with postgraduate study as an international student.
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