Medical Courses Australia International Students

Every year, thousands of international students ask the same question: can international students study medicine in Australia? The short answer is yes. The longer answer involves UCAT scores, six-figure tuition, and a handful of universities that will actually take you. This guide breaks down exactly what to expect before you apply.

Quick answer box

• Duration: 5–6 years (undergraduate MD/MBBS) or 4 years (graduate-entry MD)
• UCAT ANZ: Required by most direct-entry programs; some universities waive it for graduate entry
• Cost: Roughly AUD 350,000–500,000+ for the full degree
• Universities accepting international students: Monash, Melbourne, UQ, Sydney, ANU, UNSW, Adelaide, and others — but not all

Undergraduate vs postgraduate medicine in Australia: which pathway fits you?

Australia runs two main tracks. Undergraduate entry (straight from high school) leads to a Bachelor of Medical Science/MD or MBBS over 5–6 years and typically requires UCAT ANZ plus a strong academic record. Graduate-entry MD is a 4-year postgraduate degree for students who already hold a bachelor's degree, usually assessed through GAMSAT rather than UCAT. If you're weighing undergraduate vs postgraduate medicine Australia options, graduate entry is often faster but requires an existing degree and a competitive GPA.

Is UCAT required for international medical students in Australia?

For most direct-entry programs, yes. UCAT ANZ is a standard admission requirement, though a few universities — including Bond University — don't require it, relying instead on ATAR and interviews. Graduate-entry programs generally use GAMSAT instead. Always confirm the specific test for each university, since requirements vary and change yearly.

How much does it cost to study medicine in Australia for international students?

Budget for tuition alone between AUD 350,000 and 500,000+ across the full degree, with annual fees ranging roughly AUD 57,000–105,000 depending on the university. Add living costs of AUD 25,000–39,000 a year, plus mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover. International students don't have access to HECS-HELP, so fees are typically paid upfront or financed privately.

Which Australian universities accept international medical students?

Monash University, the University of Melbourne, University of Queensland, University of Sydney, ANU, UNSW, and University of Adelaide all offer places to international applicants, though numbers are capped and highly competitive. Some universities, including Bond, Curtin, and Newcastle, currently don't accept international medical applicants — so shortlist carefully before you invest in test prep.