Top 20 Universities for PhD Study in Australia in 2026

There are 43 universities in Australia. All of them are publically-funded institutions, supported and accredited by the Australian Government. These institutions are also responsible for carrying out research and training PhD students - like you.

Other higher education institutions in Australia are usually Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions. These focus on practical and professional training. They offer some postgraduate qualifications at or around Masters-level, but don't award PhDs.

University groups

Australia has several university associations or 'mission groups'. These bring together similar institutions with shared aims and objectives.

They include:

• The Group of Eight (Go8) - An elite organisation of established research-intensive universities with (surprisingly enough) eight members:
• Innovative Research Universities (IRU) - A network of seven younger universities, focussing on inclusive teaching and research.
• Regional Universities Network (RUN) - A group of six universities located in more rural areas of Australia.
• Australian Technology Network (ATN) - A group of universities focussing on industrial and enterprise partnerships, including the establishment of an Industry Doctoral Training Centre.

Don't get too caught up with a university's affiliation when considering PhD opportunities.

A doctorate from a Group of Eight member is a prestigious qualification, but other institutions offer equally excellent research opportunities in their areas of expertise. Don't forget, after all, that specialism is what PhD study is all about.

The strength – and breadth – of Australian research has traditionally been reflected in global league tables. 2024 is no exception. 20 universities in the top 300 according to the latest Times Higher Education Rankings.