What is the Group of Eight?

The Go8 was formed to address the development of research policy and sustainable higher education in Australia. With a strong track record for being research-intensive, the member universities are continually ranked the highest among all Australian universities. Since its inception in 1999, the coalition makes up some of the largest and most established universities in the continent.

What to know about Go8 universities

The Group of Eight provides students with the opportunity to attain professional qualifications and learn from researchers who are the best in their field. Each university is ranked competitively in a wide range of subject areas.The Go8 Bachelor’s degree completion rates are also higher than any other national universities, with all 8 in the top 11. At the postgraduate level, the Go8 welcomes one-third of all postgraduate students in Australia.

1. Australian National University

Australian National University (ANU) located in Canberra, Australia, is part of the prestigious Group of Eight (Go8) and is ranked 29th globally according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. Known for its research impact and diverse international student body, ANU is regarded as one of the most international universities (Times Higher Education, 2017).

ANU excels in several disciplines:

  • Political Science: Ranked 6th globally

  • Social Policy and Administration: Ranked 8th

  • Development Studies: Ranked 11th The university is particularly strong in geography, social policy, and international relations

ANU offers world-class programs in arts and social sciences, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. With its strong global reputation, ANU is a top choice for those pursuing higher education in Australia.

2. Monash University

Monash University, located in Melbourne, Australia, is a leading public research institution and a member of the Group of Eight (Go8). It ranks Top 100 globally, with strong recognition for its research and teaching excellence.

In the QS World University Rankings 2025, Monash University remains prominent, especially in the fields of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, where it ranks 3rd globally. The university also maintains its position as the best university in Australia for engineering and technology, a recognition that has been consistent in rankings by Times Higher Education.

Monash offers two distinct paths for students: the comprehensive degree path, covering broad fields like arts, science, business, and IT, with flexibility to choose majors later; and the specialist degree path, where students commit to a specific field from the start. This flexibility, along with Monash’s world-class programs in Pharmacy (ranked 1st in Australia and 7th globally in the ARWU 2019), makes it an excellent choice for students pursuing careers in pharmaceutical sciences and technology.

3. The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) is Australia's second-oldest university, offering over 10 academic institutions, each connected to prominent research institutes and centers. Students have the chance to explore a wide variety of subjects before committing to a particular field of study.

The university boasts a highly diverse student body, with nearly 40% of its 50,720 students coming from international backgrounds. In the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2025, UniMelb ranks 8th worldwide, reflecting its strong commitment to preparing students for global career success.

UniMelb offers the Melbourne Accelerator Program (MAP), one of the top 25 university incubators according to the University Business Incubator Index. This program helps students sharpen their skills, build professional networks, and access resources such as workshops, public events, and mentorship from start-up founders.

Ranked #1 in Australia and #13 globally, the University of Melbourne continues to lead in academic excellence, graduate employability, and research impact.

4. The University of New South Wales

The University of New South Wales (UNSW), a founding member of the Go8 in Australia, continues to rank as one of the leading universities globally. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, UNSW ranks 43rd globally and remains 6th in Australia.

UNSW is home to over 320 undergraduate programs and has strong international exchange and research partnerships with more than 200 universities worldwide. In the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), UNSW has 39 subjects in the top 100, including Water Resources (7th), Civil Engineering (9th), Remote Sensing (13th), and Finance (18th).

With its recent A$215 million redevelopment, UNSW provides students with a world-class environment to thrive academically and professionally. The university is also ranked as the #1 Australian university attended by startup founders and holds a 27th employer reputation globally.

5. The University of Queensland

The University of Queensland (UQ) is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities. As of QS World University Rankings 2025, UQ is ranked 40th globally and has maintained its prestigious position in various international rankings, including the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) where it is ranked 63rd globally.

With a focus on research excellence and teaching, UQ offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university is a member of the Group of Eight (Go8) and Universitas 21, and has received more Australian Awards for University Teaching than any other institution in the country.

UQ’s strengths include business administration, life sciences, and veterinary medicine. Additionally, Mineral and Mining Engineering at UQ is ranked 5th globally, demonstrating the university’s commitment to high-quality research and innovation.

UQ also has a vibrant student population, with around 21,500 international students from over 140 countries, creating a diverse and dynamic learning environment.

6. The University of Sydney

The University of Sydney is ranked 18th globally and 2nd in Australia (QS World University Rankings 2025). It is also #1 in Australia and #7 globally for Sustainability (QS 2024), and #29 globally in the US News Best Global Universities Rankings 2024-2025.

Top Disciplines:

  • Endocrinology & Metabolism: 9th globally

  • Electrical Engineering: 10th globally

  • Artificial Intelligence: 14th globally

  • Arts & Humanities: 16th globally

Located in the heart of Sydney, the Camperdown-Darlington campus is ranked among the world’s top 10 most beautiful universities. With over 40% international students, it offers a global community and flexible programs, allowing students to explore various majors and minors.

UniSydney also offers professional programs like the Accelerator Program, helping students develop employable skills and network with industry leaders.

7. The University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked 77th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, maintaining its position as the top university in Western Australia. The university excels in several fields, including Mineral and Mining Engineering (7th globally), Performing Arts, Agriculture, and Anatomy and Physiology, all ranked in the top 50 worldwide.

UWA is known for its strong research impact, with 28 fields rated 'well above world standard'. It is also recognized for its clinical medicine and pregnancy programs, sharing the top spot in Australia with the University of Queensland.

With over 8,000 international students, UWA offers a globally diverse and inclusive environment, making it a top choice for international students seeking a world-class education.

8. The University of Adelaide

The final member of the Group of Eight is none other than The University of Adelaide, remains a top institution globally, consistently ranking in the top 1% of universities worldwide. As of the QS World University Rankings 2025, the university continues to perform well, maintaining its position among the top 250 universities globally.

U of A excels in research and innovation, with significant contributions to various fields, including space exploration, sunscreen, and Wi-Fi. Its Nobel laureates and Rhodes scholars form a prestigious alumni network.

The university also boasts high rankings in mining engineering, performing arts, and life sciences. Its Clinical Medicine and pregnancy programs rank among the best in Australia.

Study in Australia

A study experience in Australia is like no other. Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane,Canberra, and Adelaide are just some of Australia’s capital cities ranked among the world’s 30 best cities for students. To date, the country has welcomed over half a million international students from 192 nations. When it comes to cultural diversity, Australia makes you feel at home.Australia’s vast outdoors and state-of-the-art campuses is another great reason to study there. Advanced infrastructure within cities co-exists with an abundance of natural flora and fauna. Although the cost of living there is relatively affordable, the Australian Government also offers attractive incentives for those who wish to study abroad in its country. Among these are job visas in various fields, research grants, $200 million worth of scholarships, and the possibility of earning permanent residency status after graduation.

Talk to our counsellors today to find out more about studying in Australia, or decide which Go8 university is right for you.

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