In 2025, the demand for international education is at an all-time high. More Indian families are exploring study-abroad options that combine quality, safety, and long-term value.
One name keeps coming up: Australia’s Group of Eight.
Why the sudden interest?
- These eight universities are globally recognised for their academic strength and research output.
- They offer strong career prospects and post-study pathways for UG and PG students.
- Parents value the safety, transparency, and multicultural experience Australia provides.
In this blog, we will explore just that.
What is the Group of Eight?
These institutions consistently lead the way in academic excellence, innovation, and global impact. They make up only a small fraction of the total number of universities in the country, but contribute the majority of the country’s research output. For students looking to study in Australia, particularly for careers in STEM, business, or academia, the Group of Eight (Go8) is the standard.
The eight universities in the Go8 are:
- The University of Melbourne
- The University of Sydney
- The Australian National University (ANU)
- The University of Queensland
- The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)
- Monash University
- The University of Western Australia (UWA)
- The University of Adelaide
Compared to other Australian universities, these stand out for:
- World-class faculty and infrastructure
- Strong focus on research, innovation, and postgraduate studies
- Partnerships with industries, governments, and institutions around the world
Choosing a Go8 university gives students a competitive edge, both academically and professionally.
Global Recognition and Rankings
Global rankings are used to measure a university’s academic strength, research impact, and graduate employability. Therefore, students should check the international rankings of the university they choose to attend, as these rankings are a direct testament to the value of the university.
This is where the Go8 comes in.
Go8 Rankings Snapshot (2025)
| University | QS Ranking | THE World Ranking |
| University of Melbourne | 13 | 39 |
| University of Sydney | 18 | 61 |
| Australian National University (ANU) | 30 | 73 |
| UNSW University | 19 | 83 |
| Monash University | 37 | 58 |
| University of Queensland | 40 | 77 |
| University of Western Australia | 77 | 149 |
| University of Adelaide | 82 | 128 |
Group of Eight (Go8) Universities and Their Subject Strengths
| University | Top-Ranked Subject Areas | Notable For… |
| University of Melbourne | Law, Education, Medicine, Psychology, Arts & Humanities | Australia’s #1 overall university; strong in health and social sciences |
| Australian National University | Politics, International Relations, Philosophy, Environmental Science, Anthropology | Policy and global affairs; strong liberal arts and research ties to government |
| University of Sydney | Health Sciences, Law, Architecture, Music, Veterinary Science | Healthcare, creative fields, and vibrant international student culture |
| University of Queensland (UQ) | Biotechnology, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Business | Life sciences, sustainability, and business–industry partnerships |
| Monash University | Pharmacy, Engineering, Nursing, Business Analytics, Education | Cutting-edge research in health, tech, and global academic partnerships |
| University of New South Wales | Engineering, Business, Law, Computer Science, Economics | Tech-forward education and strong graduate employability |
| University of Western Australia | Mining, Marine Science, Earth Sciences, Agricultural Science | Environmental and earth sciences; location-driven specialisations |
| University of Adelaide | Dentistry, Petroleum Engineering, AI, Wine Science, Physics | STEM-focused, particularly in applied sciences and niche engineering areas |
The University of Melbourne
The University of Sydney
The Australian National University (ANU)
The University of Queensland
The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)
Monash University
The University of Western Australia (UWA)
The University of Adelaide
Career and Research Opportunities
One of the major advantages of studying at Australia’s Group of Eight universities is access to world-class career and research pathways.
Go8 universities have strong connections with leading global employers, government organisations, and world-class research institutions, providing students with real-world opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.
High graduate employability:
Go8 universities consistently rank among the top in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings.
Strong industry tie-ups:
Internships, practical training programs, and networking events with companies that are global powerhouses (Deloitte, Google, BHP, and PwC).
Innovation hubs:
Access to startup incubators, innovation labs, and enterprise programs
Postgraduate research opportunities:
Supervised PhD and Master’s research across science, tech, health, business, and humanities.
Go8 students often co-author research papers, contribute to international projects, and present at global conferences.
For International PostGraduate aspirants, this means:
- A real shot at publication
- International recognition
- Research experience that strengthens visa and PR applications
- An edge in both corporate and academic careers
If you’re aiming for high-impact work or want to stand out in a competitive job market, the Group of Eight will be a smart decision.
Return on Investment (ROI)
Choosing to study in Australia, or any other country for that matter, is a big step, not just in terms of academics, but also when you consider the financial aspect of it. So it’s completely natural for both students and parents to wonder if studying in Australia is really worth the cost and time in 2025?
The cost of studying at Group of Eight universities in Australia, can range anywhere between AUD 35,000 to AUD 55,000 per year, depending on which program you choose. Living expenses are approximately AUD 21,000 per year, which is not exactly on the lower end of the scale.
But here’s why the ROI is compelling:
- High graduate salaries and global employability
- Strong alumni networks across the UK, US, Singapore, and India
- Competitive advantage for PR, higher studies, or international jobs
- Pathways to Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) after graduation, allowing 2–4 years of work in Australia.
- Go8 alumni work in leadership roles at Google, Microsoft, Accenture, and top research bodies
Many go on to pursue funded PhDs or land jobs straight out of internships.In short, while the initial investment may seem high, the return on investment is significant—especially when compared to less globally recognised universities.
Scholarships and Support for International Students
The good news is that Group of Eight universities in Australia offer a wide range of scholarships for Indian students to make world class education more affordable.
Some of which are:
- Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
- ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship
- Monash International Merit Scholarship
- University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships
These merit-based and need-based awards can cover partial or total tuition fees, and, in some cases, even living expenses.
Guess what? The support doesn’t stop at funding. International student services at Go8 universities include:
- Academic mentorship and language support
- Mental health counselling and peer programs
- Dedicated Indian student associations and cultural societies
- Career services to help with internships and job placement
For International students entering a new country, these make sure that you’re not just getting a degree, but you’re also building a life that aligns with the heights you want to reach – be it personal or professional.
The Go8–India Connection: More Than Just Education
Australia’s Group of Eight (Go8) universities are deeply invested in long-term academic and research ties with India. This isn’t a new relationship—it’s built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for innovation.
Between 2017 and 2021, Go8 institutions co-authored over 7,700 research publications with Indian partners—over half of all Australia–India research collaborations.
Key focus areas include engineering, clinical medicine, space science, agriculture, and material sciences.
Go8 supports bilateral PhD programs and joint research academies with elite Indian institutions like the IITs and IISERs.
Some standout partnerships:
- Monash–IIT Bombay Research Academy: A dual PhD platform for interdisciplinary research.
- UQIDAR: A joint initiative between the University of Queensland and IIT Delhi.
- Melbourne India Postgraduate Academy (MIPA): Collaborates with IIT Madras, Kanpur, Kharagpur, and IISER Tirupati.
Many Go8 policy submissions have also helped shape post-study work rights and smoother mobility pathways for Indian students under bilateral trade agreements like AI-ECTA.
Scholarships for Indian Students at Go8 Universities
What makes a Go8 education even more appealing? Scholarships tailored specifically for Indian students, making high-quality education financially accessible.
Some of them are:
University of Sydney – Scholars India Scholarship
- Up to AUD 200,000 awarded to outstanding Indian students.
- Supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students with leadership potential.
- Past recipients include top-ranking students from Delhi and Mumbai.
University of Melbourne – Sister Mary Glowrey Scholarships
- Targets Indian students engaged in public health, disability support, and palliative care.
- Delivered in partnership with India’s Catholic Health Association (CHAI).
- Builds on a 75-year legacy of Indo-Australian medical education ties.
In addition to these, many Go8 universities offer merit-based scholarships for Indian students under international funding schemes:
- ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship (India stream)
- Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
- Monash International Merit Scholarships
Plus, access to government-funded research fellowships like the Australia Awards, Maitri Scholarships, and AGRTP (for PhD aspirants).
Note: Most of these scholarships don’t require a separate application. Your course application is often enough to be automatically considered.
Why Parents Trust Go8 Universities
Sending a child abroad is a significant decision for parents, both financially and emotionally. The Group of Eight (Go8) universities in Australia stand out for their trust and transparency.
Parents feel confident choosing Go8 due to:
- Safe, multicultural cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane
- Clear academic structures and strong support for student visas
- On-campus security, wellness programs, and 24/7 helplines
- High-quality degrees with strong global career prospects
In 2025, more Indian parents are choosing Go8 for long-term career security, emotional safety, and globally respected degrees. It’s about building a better future for their child.
Is It Worth It? Absolutely.
Choosing where to study is a life-changing decision. In 2025, the Group of Eight (Go8) universities in Australia will continue to prove their value as a worthwhile investment.
As we can see from the contents of this blog, Go8 universities provide:
- Top-ranked academic programs and research opportunities
- High employability rates and strong returns on investment
- Solid pathways for student visas and post-study work in Australia
- Extensive support for international students
- Safe, multicultural environments
Whether you’re an undergraduate aiming for Silicon Valley or a postgraduate focused on research, the Go8 offers a strong foundation.
Remember to align your goals with each university’s offerings, including scholarships and course structures.
The future is global, and with the Go8, it’s within your reach.
All the Best!
Written By Manjul Kathotia