University of the Sunshine Coast does not publish a single closing date. For its next intake (Semester 1), we recommend applying around October 2026, roughly three to four months ahead.
At a glance
- International tuition
- A$30,000/yr
- First-year budget
- A$61,000 to A$70,000
- English (minimum)
- IELTS 6.0 · PTE 50
- Application fee
- None
- Intakes
- Semester 1 · Semester 2
- Regional (migration)
- Yes
- Selectivity
- Competitive
- Degree levels
- Undergraduate
Good for
- Regional migration points (491 and 190 pathways)
- Lower tuition, from A$30,000/yr
- More than one intake a year
- No application fee
- Accepts IELTS 6.0 or PTE 50
Derived from the data on this page. Individual courses set their own fees, entry scores, and intakes, so check the ones you are applying to.
Overview
USC is one of Australia's youngest universities, established in 1996, and has grown fastest in health sciences tied to the region's rapid population growth.
Who is this university for?
UniSC is one of Australia's youngest universities, growing fastest in the health sciences alongside the region's rapid population growth. The Sunshine Coast offers a beach lifestyle with lower living costs than Brisbane and regional migration advantages. It suits students who want a newer, smaller university with modern facilities and a focus on health, education, and business rather than a large research institution.
Admissions
- Selectivity
- Competitive
- English (institutional minimum)
- IELTS 6 · PTE 50
- Degree levels
- Undergraduate
Verified usc.edu.au ↗
Australian universities do not publish official acceptance rates. Selectivity here is our editorial band, not a percentage. Mainstream public university. Entry is real but attainable from a recognised bachelor's or Year 12 equivalent, while named professional courses such as nursing, teaching and psychology set higher course-specific bars. Individual competitive courses stay harder to enter than the institution-wide band suggests. How we assign it.
Tuition & first-year budget
- International tuition
- A$30,000/year
- Application fee
- None
- Living cost estimate
- A$27,000/year
Verified usc.edu.au ↗
Estimated first-year budget
A$61,000 to A$70,000
Tuition plus about A$27,000 living costs, the application fee, and roughly A$4,000 in one-off setup costs (visa, health cover, flights, initial deposits). Tuition varies widely by course, so check your specific program.
The living-cost figure is an estimate for Sippy Downs, anchored to the Australian Government’s AUD 29,710 minimum for a single student visa applicant (2026) and adjusted for the city. Your actual costs depend most on rent and lifestyle.
Financial aid & scholarships
See all scholarships for studying in Australia, including national government schemes.
Academics
Associate Degree in Business
Undergraduate · Business
This two-year program offers the perfect pathway to university to gain new skills, switch careers or simply learn more about a business area that interests you.
2 years · Tuition A$28,500 (international)
Bachelor of Animal Ecology
Undergraduate · Biology & Life Sciences
Want to work with animals? In UniSC’s Bachelor of Animal Ecology you’ll study animals in their natural habitats and learn how we can protect wildlife in a changing environment.
3 years · Tuition A$31,500 (international)
Bachelor of Arts
Undergraduate
A Bachelor of Arts is all about choice. If you have a broad range of interests, or want to study an area that does not have its own degree, a Bachelor of Arts is for you.
3 years · Tuition A$28,500 (international)
Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)
Undergraduate · Psychology
Bachelor of Biomedical Science
Undergraduate
Gain a comprehensive understanding of how the human body works and what happens when diseases, infections and clinical disorders occur.
3 years · Tuition A$32,500 (international)
Bachelor of Business
Undergraduate · Business
Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Undergraduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
Bachelor of Commerce (Honours)
Undergraduate · Business
Bachelor of Communication
Undergraduate · Communications & Media
Bachelor of Computer Science
Undergraduate · Computer Science
Every day, technology becomes more essential to the ways we live, work and play. Be ready to meet that demand with core skills in programming, software development, artificial intelligence and data analysis.
3 years · Tuition A$30,500 (international)
Bachelor of Counselling
Undergraduate · Psychology
Bachelor of Creative Industries
Undergraduate · Communications & Media
Bachelor of Criminology and Justice
Undergraduate · Political Science & International Relations
Bachelor of Design
Undergraduate · Arts & Design
Bachelor of Education (Primary)
Undergraduate · Education
Bachelor of Education Studies (Early Childhood)
Undergraduate · Education
Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Electronic)(Honours)
Undergraduate · Engineering
The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) equips you with the technical knowledge, practical experience and professional skills to tackle complex engineering challenges across civil, mechanical, electrical and electronic,...
4 years · Tuition A$33,500 (international)
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Civil Engineering
Undergraduate · Engineering
Bachelor of Environmental Management
Undergraduate · Environmental Science
Become an environmental manager with this course where you’ll learn how to minimise human impacts on the environment, manage resources sustainably, and conserve and restore habitats, biodiversity and ecosystem services.
3 years · Tuition A$31,500 (international)
Bachelor of Environmental Science
Undergraduate · Environmental Science
Help businesses and governments make informed decisions about how to manage natural ecosystems in this undergraduate course on environmental science.
3 years · Tuition A$31,500 (international)
Bachelor of Health Science
Undergraduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
With the health sector growing, take advantage of exciting career opportunities in health.
3 years · Tuition A$29,500 (international)
Bachelor of Human Services
Undergraduate · Psychology
Complete a human services degree to learn about social justice and community welfare issues from courses that will teach you about human behaviour, social problems and social welfare arrangements.
3 years · Tuition A$28,500 (international)
Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology
Undergraduate · Information Technology
If you enjoy problem solving, designing artificial worlds, or making ideas come to life, this program develops the skills you need to work on the cutting-edge of technology.
3 years · Tuition A$28,500 (international)
Bachelor of International Sport Management
Undergraduate · Business
Bachelor of Laws
Undergraduate · Law
Bachelor of Music
Undergraduate · Music & Performing Arts
Taught by award-winning industry professionals and recording artists, this degree builds your creative, technical, performance and entrepreneurial skills to prepare you for a dynamic career.
3 years · Tuition A$29,500 (international)
Bachelor of Nursing Science
Undergraduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
Bachelor of Nursing Science: Graduate Entry
Undergraduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
Bachelor of Nutrition
Undergraduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
Learn about the fascinating new science of nutrition, food and healthy eating from registered nutritionists and accredited practising dietitians in our specialised teaching kitchen.
3 years · Tuition A$29,500 (international)
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)
Undergraduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
Study occupational therapy and get the hands-on experience you need to help people break down barriers and overcome limitations caused by injury, illness, ageing and more.
4 years · Tuition A$32,500 (international)
Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours)
Undergraduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
UniSC’s Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) may be perfect for you if you’re seeking a rewarding career helping others maximise their physical wellbeing regardless of age, injury, illness or disability.
4 years · Tuition A$38,500 (international)
Bachelor of Primary Education
Undergraduate · Education
Our program is designed to qualify you to work as a primary school classroom teacher (Prep-Year 6).
4 years · Tuition A$28,500 (international)
Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics
Undergraduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Undergraduate · Psychology
Understand why people think, feel and behave certain ways in this program where award-winning psychologists teach you to treat abnormal behaviours and psychological disorders.
4 years · Tuition A$30,500 (international)
Bachelor of Recreation and Outdoor Environmental Studies
Undergraduate · Environmental Science
In this program, you’ll develop the skills to work with people, engaging them in more active lifestyles and helping them to connect with and appreciate nature.
3 years · Tuition A$29,500 (international)
Bachelor of Science
Undergraduate · Biology & Life Sciences
Bachelor of Social Work
Undergraduate · Psychology
Bachelor of Social Work, Program Information, Program Summary, Program Structure, Career Opportunities
4 years · Tuition A$29,500 (international)
Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science
Undergraduate
Bachelor of Sports Studies
Undergraduate
Combine core sport science courses with a major in journalism, management, marketing, public relations, tourism, leisure and event management, or sport and exercise nutrition.
3 years · Tuition A$31,500 (international)
Bachelor of Urban Design and Town Planning (Honours)
Undergraduate · Architecture
Set yourself apart with a specialist degree in urban design, the only undergraduate degree of its kind accredited by the Planning Institute of Australia.
4 years · Tuition A$28,500 (international)
Diploma in Animal Ecology
Undergraduate · Biology & Life Sciences
Diploma in Business
Undergraduate · Business
Diploma in Business provides you with knowledge and concepts in your chosen area of study. BU101
1 year · Tuition A$21,000 (international)
Diploma in Business Innovation
Undergraduate · Business
Start your career in business with a broad introduction to the core ideas that drive business growth, including entrepreneurship, marketing, management, and more.
1 year · Tuition A$21,000 (international)
Diploma in Communication
Undergraduate
Diploma in Criminology and Justice
Undergraduate
Diploma in General Studies
Undergraduate
Program summary and structure for the Diploma in General Studies. Study overseas in any area you’re passionate about.
1 year · Tuition A$21,000 (international)
Diploma in International Sport Management
Undergraduate · Business
Diploma in Outdoor Environmental Studies
Undergraduate · Environmental Science
Diploma of Outdoor Environmental Studies combines environmental studies, exploration and adventure.
1 year · Tuition A$21,000 (international)
Diploma in Social Sciences
Undergraduate
Doctor of Philosophy
PhD
Graduate Certificate in Business Administration
Graduate · Business
Graduate Certificate in Business Research
Graduate · Business
Build your knowledge and skills in key research methods related to business in this Graduate Certificate in Business Research - a short degree that sharpens your business focus and prepares you for further research to...
6 months · Tuition A$27,800 (international)
Graduate Certificate in Education
Graduate · Education
Graduate Certificate in Education Research
Graduate · Education
Graduate Certificate in Management
Graduate · Business
Leverage an existing degree to vie for bigger roles, interesting challenges, more money, and the opportunity to lead and change organisations.
6 months · Tuition A$29,000 (international)
Graduate Diploma in Business Administration
Graduate · Business
Master of Arts
Graduate
Master of Business Administration
Graduate · Business
Master of Business by Research
Graduate · Business
Master of Business Intelligence and Analytics
Graduate · Business
Master of Civil Engineering
Graduate · Engineering
Design and build the future. Prepare for leadership roles in the construction industry and beyond as a Civil Engineer.
1 year · Tuition A$38,500 (international)
Master of Climate Change Adaptation by Research
Graduate
Lead the fight against climate change. Climate change is increasingly seen as a major threat to the health of the planet, with long-term hazards and implications for many communities.
2 years · Tuition A$32,500 (international)
Master of Creative Arts
Graduate · Music & Performing Arts
Take the next step as a creative professional. Develop specific knowledge and skills about the emerging creative industries.
2 years · Tuition A$32,500 (international)
Master of Cyber Security and Forensics
Graduate · Information Technology
Master of Dietetics (Sports Nutrition)
Graduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
The Masters of Dietetics (Sports Nutrition) aims to qualify you to work as an Accredited Practising Dietitian* and Sports Dietitian in Australia.
2 years · Tuition A$38,500 (international)
Master of Education
Graduate · Education
Our Master of Education is a flexible degree that provides professional educators with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge within the field of education and grow their education research capabilities.
1.5 years · Tuition A$27,400 (international)
Master of Education by Research
Graduate · Education
Master of Engineering (Professional)
Graduate · Engineering
Master of Engineering Project Management
Graduate · Engineering
Being able to plan and manage projects is a core set of skills and understanding that underpins all branches of engineering.
2 years · Tuition A$38,500 (international)
Master of Health Promotion
Graduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
Master of Information and Communications Technology
Graduate · Information Technology
Master of International Business
Graduate · Business
The Master of International Business will equip you with high level skills to manage a business in the complex, competitive and challenging world of international business.
1.5 years · Tuition A$29,100 (international)
Master of Management
Graduate · Business
Build on your management talent and take your career to a new level with our Master of Management.
2 years · Tuition A$29,200 (international)
Master of Mechanical Engineering
Graduate · Engineering
Make things happen. Learn how to design and construct various mechanical systems for diverse industries.
2 years · Tuition A$38,500 (international)
Master of Nursing (Clinical Leadership)
Graduate · Nursing & Health Sciences
The program summary, admission requirements, study plan for the Master of Nursing (Clinical Leadership)
1.5 years · Tuition A$32,400 (international)
Master of Professional Accounting
Graduate · Business
Master of Professional Psychology
Graduate · Psychology
Master of Psychology (Clinical)
Graduate · Psychology
Master of Regional Planning by Research
Graduate · Architecture
Master of Renewable Energy Engineering
Graduate · Engineering
Harness the power of a changing world. Develop cutting-edge skills in various areas, including electrical power distribution, demand and storage systems, renewable energy and digital communication.
2 years · Tuition A$38,500 (international)
Master of Science
Graduate
Program summary, admission requirements, program structure and application information for the Master of Science.
2 years · Tuition A$32,500 (international)
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Graduate · Psychology
Advance your skills and knowledge to create a more just world.
2 years · Tuition A$30,500 (international)
Master of Social Work by Research
Graduate · Psychology
Master of Sport and Exercise Science by Research
Graduate
Master of Sports Nutrition by Research
Graduate · Biology & Life Sciences
Master of Teaching (Secondary)
Graduate · Education
Undergraduate Certificate in Animal Ecology
Undergraduate · Biology & Life Sciences
Learn about animals and turn your love of nature into a meaningful career. In this program, you’ll study animals in their natural habitats to better understand how we can protect their future.
6 months · Tuition A$21,000 (international)
Comparing options across universities? Browse programs by subject.
How to apply
- Pick your course and check it is open to international students for your intended intake.
- Check the entry requirements for that specific course: academic background, minimum GPA or ATAR, subject prerequisites, and the English test score it accepts.
- Prepare your documents: academic transcripts and completion certificates, your English test result (IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL), passport, CV, and a statement of purpose if the course asks for one.
- Apply online through the university's application portal, or through an authorised education agent in your country. Both routes reach the same admissions team.
- Pay the application fee if the course charges one. Many Australian universities do not.
- Wait for the outcome. You may receive a full offer, a conditional offer (for example, subject to final results or an English score), or a rejection.
- Accept your offer and pay the tuition deposit. The university then issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- Use the CoE to apply for a Student visa (subclass 500), arrange Overseas Student Health Cover, and book travel.
Requirements and steps can vary by course. Always confirm the process for your specific program on the university’s official website before applying.
Application deadlines
University of the Sunshine Coast runs fixed intakes rather than one hard deadline. The dates below are the recommended times to have your international application in, about three to four months before each intake. Postgraduate and competitive courses close earlier; later applications are often still accepted while places and visa time remain. Confirm the exact date for your course on the university’s site.
University of the Sunshine Coast assesses international applications on a rolling basis rather than to one fixed deadline. The date shown is a recommended time to apply for the February or March 2027 intake, roughly three to four months before it starts. Applications are usually still accepted after it while places remain and there is time for a student visa. UniSC sets an application closing date for each study period; applications received after it are not accepted except in exceptional circumstances, and some programs close early without notice.
University of the Sunshine Coast assesses international applications on a rolling basis rather than to one fixed deadline. The date shown is a recommended time to apply for the February or March 2027 intake, roughly three to four months before it starts. Applications are usually still accepted after it while places remain and there is time for a student visa. UniSC sets an application closing date for each study period; applications received after it are not accepted except in exceptional circumstances, and some programs close early without notice.
University of the Sunshine Coast assesses international applications on a rolling basis rather than to one fixed deadline. The date shown is a recommended time to apply for the July 2027 intake, roughly three to four months before it starts. Applications are usually still accepted after it while places remain and there is time for a student visa. UniSC sets an application closing date for each study period; applications received after it are not accepted except in exceptional circumstances, and some programs close early without notice.
University of the Sunshine Coast assesses international applications on a rolling basis rather than to one fixed deadline. The date shown is a recommended time to apply for the July 2027 intake, roughly three to four months before it starts. Applications are usually still accepted after it while places remain and there is time for a student visa. UniSC sets an application closing date for each study period; applications received after it are not accepted except in exceptional circumstances, and some programs close early without notice.
Verified usc.edu.au ↗
University of the Sunshine Coast deadlines, in detail →University of the Sunshine Coast: common questions
Does University of the Sunshine Coast charge an application fee for international students?
No. University of the Sunshine Coast does not charge international students an application fee when you apply directly or through an authorised agent. Third-party application platforms may add their own service fee.
What English test score do I need to get into University of the Sunshine Coast?
The institutional minimum for undergraduate entry at University of the Sunshine Coast is IELTS 6 overall, or PTE Academic 50. This is a floor, not a guarantee: nursing programs usually need IELTS 7.0, teaching 7.5, and medicine, law, and business often 7.0. Postgraduate coursework is typically 6.5. Always check the score for your specific course.
How much does it cost to study at University of the Sunshine Coast for a year?
As an international student, budget roughly A$61,000 to A$70,000 for your first year. That is tuition from about A$30,000, around A$27,000 in living costs for Sippy Downs, plus roughly A$4,000 in one-off setup costs. Tuition varies widely by course.
Is University of the Sunshine Coast a Group of Eight university?
No. University of the Sunshine Coast is not a member of the Group of Eight (Australia's eight research-intensive universities: ANU, Melbourne, Sydney, UNSW, Queensland, Monash, Western Australia, and Adelaide). Many fields are taught just as well outside the Go8 for lower fees.
When can I start studying at University of the Sunshine Coast?
University of the Sunshine Coast has two main intakes a year: Semester 1, starting in February or March, and Semester 2, starting in July. The recommended time to apply is about three to four months before the intake, and postgraduate and competitive courses close earlier.
Is University of the Sunshine Coast in a regional area for skilled migration?
Yes. Sippy Downs is a designated regional area for skilled migration, so studying at University of the Sunshine Coast earns 5 extra points on the skilled points test and opens the Skilled Work Regional (491) visa. Living costs are also usually below Sydney and Melbourne.
How do I apply to University of the Sunshine Coast as an international student?
Choose your course and confirm it is open to international students for your intake, check the entry requirements and English score, then apply online through the university's admissions portal or through an authorised agent in your country. After an offer you accept, pay the deposit, receive a Confirmation of Enrolment, and use it to apply for a Student visa (subclass 500).
Related
Similar universities
- Edith Cowan UniversityPerth, WA · from A$30,000/yr
- National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA)Sydney, NSW · from A$30,000/yr
- University of CanberraCanberra, ACT · from A$30,000/yr
- Torrens University AustraliaMulti-campus, national · from A$30,000/yr
Guides
- The real cost of studying in Australia
- The study-to-PR pathway in Australia
- Proving you can afford to study in Australia
- IELTS vs PTE for Australian admission
Applying from your country
What changes by nationality: agent rules, how your degree converts, and how closely the student visa is checked.
Why trust Where To Apply
- Official sources onlyEvery deadline, fee, and requirement traces to a university, government, or admissions-body page.
- Dated and re-checkedEach fact carries the date it was last verified, on a quarterly re-verification cadence.
- IndependentNo university pays for inclusion, a better write-up, or a higher rank. We are not an education agent.
- Named editor, public methodWritten and maintained by a named operator against a published methodology.
Sources & verification
Written by Roman Lama
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