Admissions·Australia & New Zealand· 6 min read

Australian National University (ANU) Admission Guide

How admission to the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra works — the official application routes by student type and degree level, requirements, alternative entry pathways, and where to verify current rules.

Key facts

Location: Canberra, ACT, Australia
Group: Group of Eight (Go8) member
Application route: By student type + degree level + specific program
Alternative pathways: Non-award, transfer, work/life-experience entry (eligibility applies)

About ANU

The Australian National University (ANU) is a research-intensive university located in Canberra, the capital of Australia, and a member of the Group of Eight. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate coursework, and postgraduate research programs.

This guide outlines the official admission process at a structural level. Specific entry scores, fees, deadlines, and program requirements are set by ANU and change between intakes, so confirm the current details for your exact program on the official ANU site.

How the application is structured

ANU guides applicants through a pathway based on a few key choices. You first identify your student type (domestic or international), then your degree level (undergraduate, postgraduate coursework, or postgraduate research), and then the specific program you want — including joint or dual-award research options where offered.

Because requirements and steps differ by program and student type, ANU directs you to the requirements for your chosen program. Read those program-specific pages carefully rather than relying on a single generic checklist.

Step 1: Choose student type (domestic / international)
Step 2: Choose degree level (undergraduate / postgraduate coursework / research)
Step 3: Choose your specific program and read its requirements

Requirements and English-language proficiency

Admission to ANU is based on meeting the academic entry requirements for your chosen program, which depend on your qualifications and the program level. International applicants must also meet ANU's English-language requirements, which can be met through a range of recognised tests.

Required entry scores and English-test scores vary by program, so check the official requirements for your specific program. Do not assume one threshold applies across all courses.

Alternative entry pathways

ANU lists alternative pathways for applicants who do not fit the standard route. These can include non-award study, transferring to ANU from another institution, and a work-and-life-experience-based entry scheme for eligible applicants.

If you think a standard application may not reflect your situation, review these pathways on the official site to see whether you qualify, and confirm the conditions before applying.

After an offer: OSHC and student visa

International students who accept an offer arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and apply for the Australian student visa (subclass 500), and must meet the Australian Government's Genuine Student requirement.

Visa and health-cover rules are set by the Australian Government and change frequently. This is general information, not immigration advice — verify the current requirements on the official Department of Home Affairs website before acting.

Frequently asked questions

Where is ANU located?

ANU is located in Canberra, the capital of Australia, within the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). It is a member of the Group of Eight.

How do I apply to ANU?

You choose your student type and degree level, select your specific program, and follow that program's requirements and application steps on the official ANU site. International and domestic routes differ, so use the path that matches your situation.

Does ANU offer alternative entry pathways?

Yes. ANU lists alternative pathways such as non-award study, transferring from another institution, and a work-and-life-experience-based entry scheme for eligible applicants. Check the official site to see whether you qualify.

What entry score and English level do I need?

Both depend on your specific program and student type. There is no single university-wide figure — check the official requirements for your chosen program and verify them before applying.

Official sources

This guide explains the process and is for guidance only. Eligibility, dates, fees and rules change every year — always confirm the current details on the official site before you act.

Verified against: Australian National University — Apply; Australian Government — Department of Home Affairs (Student visa, subclass 500).

Last verified: 2026-06-12.