Quick Summary
Since 1994, Southern Cross University has been one of Australia's prominent publics, based in Lismore. Ranked #576 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 20000 students including 25% from outside Australia. Known for strengths in Nursing, Agriculture & Forestry, Hospitality & Leisure Management, it maintains an acceptance rate of 67%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Southern Cross University offers a unique learning model, beautiful regional locations, and high student support rankings.
Subject Strengths
NursingAgriculture & ForestryHospitality & Leisure ManagementPetroleum Engineering
Founded1994
TypePublic
Total Students20000
Intl Students25%
Faculty Ratio22
CampusRegional / Multi-campus
Campus Size80 hectares
Affiliated HospitalsLismore Base Hospital, Coffs Harbour Health Campus
AccreditationTertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#576
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#501–600
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#901-1000
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Research, English Language, Diplomas
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Available
Online Programs
National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross Plant Science, Forest Research Centre
Research Centers
High
Research Output
Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate67%
IELTS6
TOEFL79
Min GPA2.5
GRENot Available
GMATNot Available
SATNot Available
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · November 30
SPRINGApplication Deadline · June 30
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on English proficiency scores and ensure all certified documents are provided for credit transfer assessment early.
05
Cost Ledger
Amounts in Australian Dollar
UG Tuition
A$30,000/yr
per year · AUD
Living Cost
A$25,000/yr
per year · AUD
PG Tuition
A$33,000/yr
per year · AUD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
A$55,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials · AUD
Scholarships AvailableVice Chancellor's Academic Excellence Scholarship, Destination Australia, SCU International Regional Scholarship
Avg Scholarship$5,200
Financial AidAvailable for domestic students via HECS-HELP
Work-StudyAvailable
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Research, English Language, Diplomas programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Nursing | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Marine Science | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Osteopathy | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Business | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Tourism | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Education | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$55,000
Average Salary After Graduation
84%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong clinical and industry placement programs in health, business, and science
Industry Connections
Mulpha AustraliaNSW HealthSurf Life Saving Australia
Notable Alumni
David Lyon, Arena Williams, Andrew Fraser
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Gymnasium, Indoor Courts, Sports Fields, Fitness Centre
Student Clubs
SCU Village Social Club, LexSA, Student Representative Council
Library Resources
Specialized collections in law, paramedicine, and marine science across three campuses
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available