Adelaide is a top choice for international students, offering exceptional quality of life and ranked as the 11th most liveable city in the world according to the Global Liveability Index for 2024. Known for its welcoming community, world-class universities, festivals, and vibrant food scene, the city provides an ideal blend of culture and convenience. 

Did you know that one in five South Australians was born overseas? This rich mix of cultures makes it easier for international students to integrate and feel at home, creating a truly inclusive and vibrant environment. 

Adelaide is also celebrated for being safe, accessible, and affordable, which are key factors for students. With low living costs, free or discounted public transport, and centrally located campuses, it is a convenient and exciting place to live and study. The city’s stunning landscapes, from lush parklands to beautiful beaches and picturesque hills, are just a short journey away. Many international students fall so in love with the lifestyle that they choose to stay in Adelaide after graduation, enjoying an unmatched work-life balance. 

This article explores Adelaide's top universities, including the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia (UniSA), and Flinders University, along with alternative pathways and private education options. Find out why Adelaide is a leading study destination.

University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide, ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2025), is renowned for its academic excellence and global recognition. The university’s graduates often find opportunities with top employers, including the Big Four accounting firms.

Academic Excellence and Career Support 

The University of Adelaide is strong for their courses in Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Computer Science, Education, Engineering, Law, and Physical Sciences. It also excels in research, with a focus on innovation and industry collaboration. 

Students benefit from workplace placements and internships, gaining practical experience and insights into real-world industries. Mentoring with industry leaders and dedicated career services help students build their skills and connect directly with employers.

International Community 

Approximately 33% of students at the University of Adelaide are international, representing a diverse range of countries. The largest groups come from China, India, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. This diversity creates a vibrant cultural exchange for both international and domestic students, equipping students with the skills and perspectives needed to thrive in a globalised economy.

Location 

The university’s main North Terrace campus is located in Adelaide’s vibrant city centre, steps away from Rundle Mall, art galleries, museums, and cafes. It also has campuses in Waite, Roseworthy, and Melbourne, each offering advanced facilities.

Pathways: University of Adelaide College 

The University of Adelaide College provides international students with pathways such as Foundation Studies, Degree Transfer, Pre-Master’s, and English Language Programs. These programs help bridge academic or language gaps, preparing students for their undergraduate or postgraduate studies. The college is centrally located near Rundle Mall, making it a convenient option for students.

University of South Australia

Source: University of South Australia https://unisa.edu.au/  

The University of South Australia (UniSA) takes a practical, career-focused approach, designing degrees in collaboration with over 2,500 industry partners. This ensures graduates are career-ready and have access to placements, internships, and real-world projects. 

Key Strengths 

UniSA offers a wide range of programs, excelling in Education, Business and Economics, Medicine, Dentistry, Computer Science, and Engineering. It is ranked in Australia’s top 10 for employability, reflecting its commitment to preparing students for the workforce. 

Location 

UniSA has four metropolitan campuses (City East, City West, Magill, and Mawson Lakes) and two regional campuses (Whyalla and Mount Gambier). The City East and City West campuses are located in Adelaide’s bustling city centre, close to transport, shopping, and entertainment. 

Pathways for International Students 

While foundation studies are only available for domestic students at UniSA, international students can access CELUSA (Centre for English Language at UniSA) to meet English language requirements. Pathway programs are also available through partners such as Eynesbury College, TAFE SA, and SAIBT, providing academic support for entry into UniSA degrees.

Flinders University

Source: Flinders University https://www.flinders.edu.au/  

Flinders University is known for its innovative teaching methods and research excellence, ensuring students are equipped with skills for the future. It stands out in Nursing and Health Sciences, Medicine, Engineering and Technology, Psychology, Creative Arts, Media, and Business and Management. 

Opportunities for Students 

Flinders offers practical learning experiences such as placements, practicums, field studies, and simulated workplace activities. These help students build industry-specific skills and professional networks. 

Location​​ 

Flinders has three main campuses: Bedford Park, Tonsley, and City Campus. The City Campus is centrally located near Rundle Mall, while Bedford Park and Tonsley are about 45 minutes by public transport from the city. 

Pathways: Flinders University Academy 

The International Foundation Studies Program at Flinders University Academy is a dedicated pathway for students who don’t meet direct entry requirements. Located at the Bedford Park campus, the program prepares students with academic skills, English proficiency, and university-level study techniques. 

Private Education Institutions  

Instead of opting for top public universities like the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia, or Flinders University, some domestic and international students opt for private education institutions such as TAFE SA and the Australian Institute of Business (AIB). These institutions offer less competitive entry requirements, flexible pathways to top universities, more industry-specific courses, flexible schedules, and smaller class sizes. Everyone’s journey is unique, so choose the path that works best for you!

Accommodation

Source: Dwell Student Living 

Choosing where to live is one of the most important decisions you’ll make after picking your university. There are generally three options students consider: on-campus housing, renting an apartment, or staying in purpose-built student accommodations. 

On-campus housing may seem like the obvious choice due to its proximity to university facilities, but it often comes with a higher price tag, smaller spaces, and stricter regulations. Renting an apartment, while offering more independence, can be tricky for newcomers to the city. It involves searching for a place, handling separate utility bills, and dealing with rental agreements—all of which can feel overwhelming. 

Purpose-built student accommodations, like Dwell, are a fantastic alternative. These spaces are tailored specifically for students, offering modern rooms, excellent facilities, and locations close to major universities. The cherry on top? All-inclusive bills, meaning you won’t have to stress about paying for utilities like electricity, water, or gas separately. 

Still weighing your options? Click here to dive deeper into the choices and figure out what works best for you! 

Conclusion 

Adelaide is a top choice for students, offering world-class education, vibrant culture, and an affordable lifestyle. Whether you choose the prestige of the University of Adelaide, the industry focus of UniSA, the innovation at Flinders University, or the flexibility of private institutions like TAFE SA and AIB, Adelaide has something for everyone. With its diverse community and stunning surroundings, it’s the perfect place to study, grow, and enjoy life.