The University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide: A Comprehensive Overview

Founded in 1874, The University of Adelaide is Australia’s third-oldest public research university, located in Adelaide, South Australia. A Group of Eight member, it enrolls 29,000 students, including 30% international students from 100+ countries, across 100+ programs. Set to merge with the University of South Australia to form Adelaide University in 2026, it ranks among the world’s top universities for research and innovation.

History

Established with endowments from Walter Watson Hughes and Sir Thomas Elder, it was Australia’s second university to admit women (1881). Introducing science and business degrees, it expanded with Waite (1924) and Roseworthy (1991) campuses. The 2026 merger will create South Australia’s largest university, enhancing global impact.

Academic Structure

Adelaide’s three faculties—Arts, Business, Law and Economics; Sciences, Engineering and Technology; and Health and Medical Sciences—offer 100+ undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. English-taught and online options, plus pathway programs, support international students.

Prominent Faculties and Departments

The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, with top-50 medicine and dentistry programs, leads in public health. The Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology excels in viticulture and biotechnology. The Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, with Australia’s first business school, is renowned for marketing, collaborating with Adelaide BioMed City.

Research Activities

Adelaide’s research is world-class (ERA 2018), leading in biotechnology, AI, and agriculture. The Waite campus drives agricultural innovation, and proximity to the Australian Space Agency supports space research. With five Nobel Prize contributions, like Sir Howard Florey’s penicillin work, Adelaide produces high-impact publications.

International Rankings

Adelaide ranks 89th in QS 2023, 92nd in U.S. News & World Report 2025, and 111th in THE 2023. Computer science and dentistry are in the global top 50 (QS 2023). Graduate employability leads South Australia (QS 2022).

Campus Life

The North Terrace campus, with Bonython Hall, blends historic and modern facilities across four campuses. Over 130 clubs, gyms, and Adelaide’s cultural scene enhance student life. International students access orientation, counseling, and transport passes.

Notable Alumni

Alumni include five Nobel laureates like J.M. Coetzee, plus Julia Gillard (former PM) and Andrew Thomas (astronaut). The 150,000+ alumni network impacts science, politics, and technology.

Future Goals

Adelaide’s 2026 merger into Adelaide University aims for top 1% global ranking, expanding online education and research in space and biomedicine, targeting net-zero by 2030. A $500 million investment supports employability and sustainability.

Admission Requirements and Application Procedures

With a 75% acceptance rate, undergraduates need a high school certificate (80% Indian CBSE equivalent) and 3.0/4.0 GPA. Postgraduates require a bachelor’s (2:1). English proficiency (IELTS 6.5/TOEFL 79) is mandatory. Applicants submit transcripts, CV, SOP, LORs, and AUD 21,041/year proof of funds for a visa (AUD 710). Apply via SATAC or university portal (rolling deadlines, February/July 2025 advised). Tuition: AUD 30,000–50,000/year (international), plus AUD 500 fee. Scholarships like Global Citizens (30% tuition) are available.

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