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Are you considering pursuing research-oriented programs but confused about which country to choose? When it comes to selecting a program in research-intensive fields, especially in areas like the medical field, the Group of Eight (Go8) universities in Australia stand out as a compelling academic choice.

The Go8 universities in Australia are the biggest and oldest institutions in the country, the universities are renowned for their commitment to research and education excellence.

Also, to study at any of the universities in Australia, you are required to demonstrate your English language proficiency by taking a standardised test such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Therefore, in this blog, we will explore the Go8 universities in Australia and their IELTS requirement.

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What is the Go8?

Established in 1999, the Group of Eight (Go8) in Australia represents a group of eight prominent universities globally recognised for their exceptional education and research offerings. It's noteworthy that every Australian Nobel Prize recipient has affiliations with these institutions, underscoring the Go8's association with laureates.

Furthermore, nearly 70% of Australia's research output yields from this group of eightuniversities, leaving an indelible mark on the international stage through significant contributions in areas such as healthcare, cybersecurity, agriculture, and beyond.

Go8 international connections

Go8 group has international connections with universities and research institutions in Chile, France, Brazil, China (with the C9), and Germany. It also works closely with universities in the UK, Canada, the US, and Japan and is a member of GRIUN. *

*Source: https://go8.edu.au/about/the-go8.

Why should you study in Go8 Universities?

There are several compelling reasons to consider studying at Group of Eight (Go8) universities in Australia:

  1. Academic excellence: Go8 universities are renowned for their high academic standards, rigorous programs, and world-class faculty. They consistently rank among the top institutions globally for academic excellence.

  2. Research opportunities: Go8 universities are leaders in research, offering numerous opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research projects. This can provide valuable experience and enhance your academic and career prospects.

  3. Global recognition: Degrees from Go8 universities are highly respected worldwide. Graduates often find it easier to secure jobs and pursue further education opportunities both in Australia and internationally.

  4. Networking opportunities: These universities attract a diverse and talented student body, providing excellent networking opportunities. You'll have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals and build a global professional network.

  5. State-of-the-art facilities: Go8 universities typically have modern campuses and state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and technology resources, which improves the overall learning experience.

  6. Employment prospects: Graduates from Go8 universities often enjoy excellent employment prospects. Many universities have strong connections with industries and provide career support services to help students find job opportunities.

List of Go8 universities in Australia

Here is the list of Go8 universities for you to consider studying if you are planning to study in Australia:

  1. University of Melbourne

  2. Australian National University

  3. University of Sydney

  4. The University of Queensland

  5. Monash University

  6. The University of New South Wales Sydney

  7. The University of Western Australia

  8. The University of Adelaide

Go8 universities in Australia and their IELTS score requirement

Here is a brief overview of Go8 universities and their IELTS requirement:

1. University of Melbourne

Established in 1853, the University of Melbourne is world-renowned for its contributions to education, research, and engagement. For the past 160 years, it has been a pioneer in research with 22 discipline-specific faculties and graduate schools and 6,500 staff members. Attracting students from 150+ countries, the university’s pedagogy is research-based and flexible. It has seven campus locations across Melbourne and rural Victoria.

Within Australia

Globally

QS Rankings (2024)

1

14

THE Rankings (2023)

1

34

IELTS requirement: The IELTS requirement to study at the University of Melbourne is an overall band score of 6.0 and above.

2. Australian National University

Established in 1946, the Australian National University (ANU) is known for its unparalleled research and education. Consistently ranking in the Global University Employability Ranking, it makes job-ready graduates with exceptional technical and interpersonal skills. 95% of the research done at the ANU is recognised and impacts industries globally.

Within Australia

Globally

QS Rankings (2024)

4

=34

THE Rankings (2023)

5

62

IELTS requirement: The IELTS requirement to study at the Australian National University is an overall band score of 6.5 and above.

3. University of Sydney

Established in 1850, the University of Sydney has six faculties and three schools. With students from over 134 countries in various undergraduate and postgraduate programs, the university is truly international. It has a library that comprises 5.2 million books, journals and e-books and runs more than 200 clubs for students.

Within Australia

Globally

QS Rankings (2024)

3

=19

THE Rankings (2023)

4

=54

IELTS requirement: The IELTS requirement to study at the University of Sydney is an overall band score of 6.5 and above.

4. The University of Queensland

Having over 7,000 staff members and 52,000 students, the University of Queensland is regarded as one of the biggest institutions in Australia. Established in 1909, the university boasts of some world-renowned educators from advanced facilities such as the Advanced Engineering Building, Oral Health Centre, Pharmacy Australia Centre for Excellence, and Boeing Research facility. It offers truly international exposure with over 15,400 international students from 141 different countries.

Within Australia

Globally

QS Rankings (2024)

6

43

THE Rankings (2023)

3

53

IELTS requirement: The IELTS requirement to study at the University of Queensland is an overall band score of 6.5 and above.

5. Monash University

A public research university based out of Melbourne city in the state of Victoria, Monash University offers a variety of courses and programs to choose from. It was established in 1958 and is the second oldest university in the state. A global university, it has four campuses in Victoria, one in Malaysia, a research and training centre in Italy, a graduate school in China, and a graduate research school in Mumbai. It hosts students from over 170 countries and is an esteemed institution to gain technical skills, grow as an individual, and get an international perspective to eventually succeed in your career path.

Within Australia

Globally

QS Rankings (2024)

5

42

THE Rankings (2023)

2

45

IELTS requirement: The IELTS requirement to study at Monash University is an overall band score of 6.0 and above.

6. The University of New South Wales Sydney

With its main campus in Sydney, the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is known for its groundbreaking research and strong industry connections. Known for being the topmost preference among Australia’s eminent employers, it has more millionaire alumni than any other Australian institution. Founded in 1949, it now has eight campuses in Kensington, CBD, Randwick, Paddington, Cliff Brook, David Phillips, Manly Vale, and Canberra. You can select a program in any of its eight faculties, 47 schools, and 125 UNSW and external centre institutes.

Within Australia

Globally

QS Rankings (2024)

2

=19

THE Rankings (2023)

6

71

IELTS requirement: The IELTS requirement to study at the University of New South Wales Sydney is an overall band score of 6.5 and above.

7. The University of Western Australia

With its main campus in Perth, the University of Western Australia (UWA) is in the top 1% of universities in the world. Former Australian Prime Minister the Honourable Bob Hawke AC, and Oscar-winning artist Shaun Tan are alumni of this prestigious institution. It offers dedicated support for students and was rewarded a five-star rating by the Good Universities Guide 2018 for its low student-to-teacher ratio. The Student Guild in UWA manages over 140 clubs and societies in varied fields catering to different students’ interests.

Within Australia

Globally

QS Rankings (2024)

7

72

THE Rankings (2023)

8

131

IELTS requirement: The IELTS requirement to study at the University of Western Australia is an overall band score of 6.0 and above.

8. The University of Adelaide

A prestigious institution based in Adelaide, the University of Adelaide boasts 110 Rhodes Scholars and five Nobel Laureates that well explains its quality of teaching and research training. With almost 8,000 international students from 100 countries and 200 programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, The University of Adelaide is truly a place that offers a rich and stimulating experience to its students. For its 17 Australian Laureate Fellowships, the uni has been awarded an amount of AUD 11.93 million. It was established in 1874.

Within Australia

Globally

QS Rankings (2024)

8

89

THE Rankings (2023)

7

88

IELTS requirement: The IELTS requirement to study at the University of Adelaide is an overall band score of 6.0 and above.

Hope this blog helps you understand all about the Go8 universities and what IELTS band score you require to study in these popular universities. If you want to know more about the IELTS test, you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will clear all your doubts.

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