Topics covered
- Published: 27 June 2025
- Updated: 29 January 2026
If you are cherishing your dream of studying in Australia and looking for a learning environment that nurtures deep human values, then the Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a destination you cannot miss. With a campus system spread across Australia, practical training programs, and a global network, ACU is not only equipped with professional knowledge but also inspires you to live responsibly and contribute positively to the community.
In this article, IDP will explore the highlights of ACU University, from its strengths and prestigious rankings to the unique learning environment that the university offers, helping you better visualize your journey to study abroad and develop yourself in Australia in the future.
1. About Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Australian Catholic University (ACU) is one of the leading Catholic universities in Australia, featuring a holistic educational philosophy, associated with moral values, human development and community service. ACU welcomes students from all faiths and backgrounds, creating a diverse and inclusive community. The university also offers a range of support services, from academic advising and career orientation to a wide range of extracurricular activities.
The university is proud to be a member of the Australian government-funded national university system, and is part of the Commonwealth Association of Universities and the International Federation of Catholic Universities.
1.1. Main campuses of Australian Catholic University
ACU has a total of 7 campuses across Australia, giving you maximum flexibility in choosing a study location that suits your individual needs and preferences.
Ballarat campus (Aquinas) is located in the town of Ballarat, 125 km west of Melbourne, offering a great combination of peaceful countryside and modern facilities. The campus focuses on teaching subjects such as education, nursing, physical therapy, and philosophy.
Blacktown Campus (St Josephine Bakhita): Located right in the heart of Blacktown, west of Sydney, Blacktown is ACU's newest campus. The campus is designed with state-of-the-art nursing labs, hospital simulation rooms, moot courts, and science labs.
Brisbane Campus is located in Banyo, about 12 km north of Brisbane city center. The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art labs and simulation rooms for the medical professions (nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, and biomedical sciences), gymnasiums, swimming pools, and sports fields. Australian Catholic University also provides a creative space for students studying art and drama.
Canberra Campus (Signadou):
The Signadou Campus is located in Watson, just 5 km from Canberra City Centre (CBD). Located close to important sites of the capital, such as Parliament House, the National War Museum, and the National Gallery, this campus is an ideal choice for those who want to study a postgraduate or research program. The campus stands out with teaching areas that revolve around education, health sciences, mission and culture, Speech Therapy..
Melbourne Campus: Located in the heart of Fitzroy, a vibrant area of Melbourne, adjacent to Carlton Gardens and the central business district (CBD). It is one of the largest and busiest campuses of ACU University, offering you a wide range of academic programs, especially in the fields of health, education, business, law, and the Arts.
The North Sydney Campus (MacKillop) is located in the heart of the North Sydney CBD—just about a 5-minute train ride from Sydney city center. This gives you great advantages in terms of mobility, internship opportunities, and access to a myriad of urban facilities. The campus is equipped with a system of facilities with a student-run health clinic, Callinan Library, specialized laboratories, and a chapel for community activities.
Strathfield campus: Located about 14km west of central Sydney, the Strathfield campus is very convenient for students to travel from nearby areas such as the Blue Mountains and Central Coast. The campus has event facilities such as galleries, function rooms, and a large lecture hall. Students can participate in student associations, clubs, and regular events near Bicentennial Park and Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.
1.2. Outstanding achievements of Australian Catholic University (ACU)
ACU boasts many impressive achievements and rankings, including:
ACU is ranked in the 401–500 group globally according to the THE World University Rankings 2026, reflecting the university's international standing among more than 2,000 universities considered.
QS Subject Rankings: In Theology, Religion & Religious Studies, ACU ranks #1 in Australia and #22 globally according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025.
Top 10 Catholic Universities in the World: ACU is rated as one of the top Catholic universities in the world according to THE criteria.
Graduation Employment Rate: ACU continues to maintain a rate of approximately 95% of students finding employment or continuing their studies within months of graduation (according to surveys in university and THE reports).
See more: QS World University Rankings 2026
Student Community
Join the IDP student community
Connect with peers and student ambassadors to hear real experiences, tips, and advise about studying broad.

2. Strengths of Australian Catholic University (ACU)
ACU stands out for its humanistic and highly applied training disciplines and great recruitment demand, especially in the fields of healthcare, education and social work. Here are the key areas of training:
Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine
Sport and Exercise Science:
Allied Health
Nutrition and Biomedical Science
Public Health and Administration.
Education
Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies
Law and Business
Arts and Humanities
Information Technology
3. Australian Catholic University (ACU) Tuition Fees
For international students studying in Australia at the bachelor's level, tuition fees will range from AUD 17,000 to 50,000 per year. Besides the annual tuition fee, you will have to prepare for additional living expenses, including housing, travel, book fees, and other personal expenses. These costs may vary depending on the program of study, personal lifestyle, and campus location chosen by the student.
For more detailed tuition fees for each subject and the cost of living temporarily charged for the duration of your time studying in Australia at ACU University, please for further advice.
4. ACU University Scholarships
ACU offers a variety of attractive scholarship programs for international students, aiming to provide financial support and encourage those with outstanding academic achievements. These scholarships may include tuition fee waivers, cost-of-living assistance, or other grants.
Scholarship Name | Level of study | Scholarship Value |
The ACU International Student Scholarship | Applicable for Undergraduate, Postgraduate | 50% of annual tuition fees |
ELICOS | Apply for ELICOS program | 20% |
ACU International Student Accommodation Scholarship | Apply for Undergraduate | 20% |
See more: Scholarships to study in Australia from 30 - 100% latest update
Find the right subject at Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Studying abroad at Australian Catholic University is not just a learning journey, but also an opportunity for you to develop holistically. With a state-of-the-art learning environment, practical training and a dedicated international student support network, ACU offers an ideal learning environment where you can accumulate knowledge, practice practical skills and shape a meaningful career path.
To find out which major you would be suitable for at Australian Catholic University (ACU), IDP Vietnam is always ready to advise you on all information, from finding the right course, preparing admission documents, hunting for scholarships to study in Australia, to visa application support and orientation before you go to study abroad. The counselors will always follow up on your application and provide maximum support for you to successfully hunt for a scholarship.
In addition, in order to help you be proactive in choosing the right country and school, IDP always organizes study abroad seminars that take place throughout the year. You can meet directly with school representatives, consider scholarships on the spot, apply for an Australian student visa with a success rate of up to 95% or register for IELTS with many attractive offers.
with IDP today!
One account for all your study abroad needs
Create your profile and unlock a wide array of features including personalised recommendations, fast-tracked applications and much more.










