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Australian National University
The Australian National University (ANU), founded in 1946, is Australia's only university created by an Act of Federal Parliament. Consistently ranked among the world's top universities, ANU is renowned for its research excellence in astronomy, climate science, economics, and Asia-Pacific studies.
Located in Canberra, Australia's capital, ANU offers students unparalleled access to national institutions, government agencies, and diplomatic missions. With over 25,000 students from more than 100 countries, ANU provides a focused, research-intensive university experience.
1946
Founded
#34
World Ranking
25K+
Total Students
100+
Countries represented
National Institution
Founded by an Act of Parliament in 1946, ANU is Australia's only national university. It consistently ranks as the top university in the Southern Hemisphere and is renowned for its exceptional research output across all disciplines.
Research Powerhouse
ANU is home to more Nobel laureates than any other Australian university and leads national research in astronomy, climate science, economics, and Asia-Pacific studies through its dedicated research schools and centres.
ATAR & Admission Requirements
| Undergraduate Program | ATAR Requirement | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Advanced Computing (Honours) | 95.00 | Strong mathematics background |
| Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy & Economics | 95.00 | Flagship interdisciplinary program |
| Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) | 90.00 | Mathematics prerequisite |
| Bachelor of Commerce | 88.00 | AACSB accredited |
| Bachelor of Science | 85.00 | 40+ majors available |
Note: ATAR requirements reflect recent entry data and may fluctuate based on demand. Competitive programs may require scores well above the published minimum.
International Pathways
- ANU Foundation StudiesGuaranteed entry into bachelor degrees on completion
- Diploma ProgramsComputing, Music, and Creative Design pathways
- A-LevelsAAB to A*A*A depending on program
- IB Diploma27-43 points with specific HL requirements
- Transfer CreditsMinimum 65-70% from accredited institutions
English Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall 6.5, no band below 6.0 (some courses 7.0+)
- TOEFL iBT80+ with writing 20+, speaking 18+
- PTE Academic64+ with communicative skills 55+
- Cambridge EnglishC1 Advanced 176+ overall
- English MediumExemptions for previous English study
The ANU Experience
National Capital Campus
ANU's main campus in Acton, Canberra, is surrounded by national treasures — Lake Burley Griffin, the National Museum, and Parliament House. The campus features modern facilities, residential colleges, and a vibrant community with over 200 clubs.
- Prime location in Australia's national capital
- 200+ student clubs and societies
- On-campus residential college system
Global Research Impact
Home to the Mt Stromlo Observatory, the Crawford School of Public Policy, and 40+ research centres, ANU attracts world-leading academics and offers students unparalleled research opportunities from undergraduate level.
- More Nobel laureates than any Australian university
- Mt Stromlo Observatory — world-class astronomy research
- Crawford School — top public policy school in Asia-Pacific
Explore by Faculty
Arts & Social Sciences
- Humanities & social sciences
- Languages & creative arts
- Asia-Pacific studies
- International relations
- Philosophy & history
Science & Engineering
- Astronomy & astrophysics
- Computer science & IT
- Engineering disciplines
- Biological sciences
- Climate science
Business & Law
- Economics & finance
- Accounting & commerce
- Law & legal policy
- Business analytics
- Public policy
Application Process & Deadlines
Key Dates
Early August
UAC & Direct applications open
August
ANU Early Entry program
January
Main round offers released
February
Late round offers
Mid-February
Orientation Week
Late February
Semester 1 begins
Application Steps
Explore Programs
Review ANU's undergraduate programs, entry requirements, and prerequisites
Prepare Documents
Gather academic transcripts, English test scores, and supplementary materials
Submit Application
Apply through UAC for domestic or directly to ANU for international students
Receive Your Offer
ANU releases offers in monthly rounds — accept promptly
Enrol and Prepare
Enrol in courses, arrange accommodation, and attend O-Week
Tips for a Strong Application
Aim High on ATAR
Competitive ANU programs require scores 5-10 points above the minimum.
ANU Access Scheme
Adjusted entry schemes for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Subject Selection
Year 12 subjects should align with your intended program.
Apply for Scholarships
Tuckwell Scholarship offers $26,000/year — apply by September.
Your Path to ANU
The Australian National University offers a world-class education with unparalleled access to national institutions and global research opportunities. From its Acton campus to its world-leading research centres, ANU prepares graduates for leadership roles worldwide.
Plan Ahead
Start preparing 12–18 months before your intended start date
Excel Academically
Focus on prerequisite subjects and maintain strong grades
Apply Strategically
Submit a well-prepared application before deadlines
Pro Tip: ANU values students who demonstrate academic excellence and a clear research focus. Start early and take advantage of all available resources including Access ANU and scholarship opportunities.