Australia, which is well-known for its excellent research and strong academic standards, offers prospective medical students the perfect setting for a fulfilling path toward a medical degree. The medicine courses in Australia are offered as Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (MD), and Doctor of Medicine (MD) courses and are accredited by the Australian Medical Council (AMC). To study medicine in Australia, international students must have 12 years of high school education. Australian medical programs are characterized by a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience. Universities such as the University of Melbourne, Monash University, University of New South Wales, and the University of Sydney are popular institutions offering world-class medical education. The University of Newcastle, University of Tasmania (UTAS), Flinders University, James Cook University, and Curtin University also offer MD courses for international students.
After the completion of an MBBS/MD in Australia, graduates are eligible for provisional registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and the Medical Board of Australia. Upon completing a compulsory internship year of residence in an approved hospital, they can then register in the respective states of the country.
Overview: Study Medicine in Australia
| Number of universities | ~15 (source: Study in Australia official website) |
| Course level | Bachelor’s and integrated (Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) |
| Duration | 4-7 years |
| General admission requirements | 12 years schooling (biology, chemistry, mathematics, and/or physics) |
| Degree awarded | Doctor of Medicine, Bachelor of Medical Studies |
| Admission test | UMAT, ISAT, UCAT, GAMSAT, or MCAT scores required |
| Annual tuition fees for international students | AU $60,000 to 100,000 |
Why Study Medicine in Australia?
Global recognition and acceptance: A medical degree from an Australian university is widely recognized internationally. Graduates are eligible to sit for licensing exams in many countries, facilitating the potential for global career opportunities.
Professional accreditation: Medical programs in Australia are accredited by the AMC. Graduates must complete an internship and, in some cases, a residency period to be eligible for full medical registration.
Research opportunities: Australian universities are known for their strong emphasis on research. Medical students often have opportunities to engage in research projects and contribute to advancements in healthcare.
Quality of life: Australia offers a high standard of living and a diverse, multicultural environment. Students benefit from a well-developed healthcare system, a safe and welcoming society, and numerous extracurricular activities.
Excellent healthcare system: Australia boasts a well-established and efficient healthcare system. Medical students have the opportunity to gain practical experience in hospitals and clinics known for their high standards of patient care.
Global networking: Australia’s medical community is well-connected globally. Studying medicine in Australia provides opportunities for students to build international networks, attend conferences and workshops, and collaborate with professionals from different parts of the world.
Top Medicine Universities in Australia
| University Name | THE World University Rankings 2024: Medicine & Dentistry | QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023: Medicine |
| University of Melbourne | 37 | 24 |
| Monash University | 54 | 40 |
| UNSW Sydney – University of New South Wales | 84 | 52 |
| The University of Sydney | 60 | 25 |
| University of Newcastle | 201-250 | 151-200 |
| University of Tasmania (UTAS) | 251-300 | 401-450 |
| Flinders University | 301–350 | 251-300 |
| James Cook University | 351-400 | 451-500 |
| Curtin University | 201-250 | – |
Best Medicine Universities in Australia
University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is a prestigious public research university located in Melbourne, Victoria. Established in 1853, it is one of the oldest universities in Australia and is consistently ranked as one of the top institutions globally. Besides the main campus located in Parkville, it has several other campuses, including Southbank, Burnley, Creswick, Dookie, and Werribee. The University of Melbourne offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including medicine, business, engineering, health sciences, law, science, and more. It is known for its rigorous academic standards and commitment to research-intensive education.
The Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences at the University of Melbourne is renowned for its medical program, the Doctor of Medicine (MD). It is ranked 1st in the country for its MD program which is a master’s level course. It is designed for students who have already completed their undergraduate studies and are planning to study medicine.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Doctor of Medicine (MD) | 4 years | AU $101,952 |
Monash University
Monash University is a public research university established in 1958 in Australia. It is named after Sir John Monash, an Australian military commander. Monash is one of Australia’s largest and most dynamic universities, consistently ranking among the top universities globally. The university has multiple campuses in Victoria, including Clayton, Caulfield, Peninsula, and Parkville. It also has international campuses in Malaysia and South Africa. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, business, engineering, medicine, science, and more.
Monash University offers the Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (MD) courses via two pathways: direct entry and graduate entry. Both pathways lead to the same degree Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (MD). The courses are offered by the Faculty Of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences. For the direct entry program, students spend the first two years on campus whereas the last three years are spent in a hospital and the community. For the graduate entry route, 70% of the places are kept reserved for students enrolled in Monash undergraduate degrees. Students with a biomedical science degree with a GPA of 6.0 out of 7.0 can also apply for the graduate entry program.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (MD), Direct Entry | 5 years | AU $92,200 |
| Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (MD), Graduate Entry | 4 years | AU $92,200 |
UNSW Sydney – University of New South Wales
The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) was established in 1949 with a strong focus on scientific, technological, and professional disciplines. It is a leading Australian public research university located in Sydney, New South Wales. Besides the main campus, UNSW Sydney also has additional campuses, including the Paddington Campus (College of Fine Arts), Randwick (UNSW Medicine campus), and a CBD campus.
As per the statistics provided by the Universities Admissions Centre, the Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine course by UNSW Sydney is placed in the “Top 10 most in-demand courses for 2023.” The course is delivered by the Faculty of Medicine and Health at UNSW Sydney which is renowned for its medical programs and research contributions. Upon completion, graduates are awarded the Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed) and the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. The university also allows a graduate entry to its Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine course for students enrolled in its BMedSci program.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine | 6 years | AU $74,445 |
The University of Sydney
A prestigious public university in Australia, the University of Sydney is located in Sydney. It was founded in 1850 and is considered one of the oldest and most renowned universities in the country. The main campus, Camperdown/Darlington, is located near the city center of Sydney. The university has several other campuses, including the Cumberland Campus for Health Sciences and the Camden Campus for Agriculture and Environmental Sciences.
It ranks 25th globally for Medicine (2023 QS Subject Ranking). The program, Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine is offered by the Faculty of Medicine. The faculty is affiliated with several hospitals and research institutes, providing students with a practical and comprehensive education.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine | 7 years | AU $56,000 |
University of Tasmania (UTAS)
This public research university is located in Tasmania. Founded in 1890, the University of Tasmania (UTAS) is one of the oldest universities in the country. UTAS has multiple campuses across Tasmania, including the main campus in Hobart, Sandy Bay. It offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines like medicine, business, education, health sciences, law, science, etc.
UTAS offers a 5-year long BMedScMD program for students who have completed their 12 years of high school education and are planning to study medicine. In years 1-3 students will learn foundation knowledge in medical science and clinical skills including short clinical placements throughout the state. Years 4 and 5 are dedicated to clinical placements only.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (BMedScMD) | 5 years | AU $74,950 |
Admission Requirements to Study Medicine in Australia
Minimum eligibility and entry requirements for international students
High school education: Applicants who have completed 12 years of schooling (up to high school education) are eligible to apply for an MD in Australia (biology, chemistry, mathematics, and/or physics). The diploma must be equivalent to Australian year 12 education or ATAR requirement. Students who lack this qualification can opt for a foundation degree offered by Australian medical schools.
English language proficiency: International applicants from non-English speaking countries must submit English proficiency scores. Accepted scores are IELTS (Academic): 7.0, TOEFL Internet-based test: 94, Pearson Test of English (Academic): 65, etc.
Admission test: International students applying to medicine programs in Australia must also clear admission tests like ISAT, UMAT, GAMSAT, MCAT, or UCAT.
Interview: Many medical universities in the country undertake personal or online interviews as a part of their admission process for MD courses.
Other requirements: Students must have a valid student visa in order to be admitted. They must also provide proof of financial support to cover both tuition fees and living expenses in Australia.
Suggested reading: Best Medical Universities in Australia, Cost of Medical Studies in Australia, Scholarships to Study Medicine in Australia for International Students, Admission and Eligibility for Medical Studies in Australia
Conclusion
In summary, choosing to study medicine in Australia offers an enriching educational experience that extends beyond the classroom. Australia’s medical programs provide a comprehensive curriculum, cutting-edge research opportunities, and exposure to diverse clinical settings. Beyond academics, Australia’s diverse and multicultural society offers a unique learning environment, encouraging students to engage with a variety of experiences. The nation’s dedication to providing top-notch healthcare is demonstrated by its internationally recognized medical degrees, which guarantee that graduates will be well-prepared to succeed in the rapidly changing medical industry. If you are looking to study medicine in Australia, check out the OneApply platform by Gyanberry. It is a one-step platform designed to enable students to apply to multiple universities to increase their chances of admission. To know more about it, you can get in touch with our expert counselors by filling out the form or by booking a free video appointment.
