Study Medicine in Australia
Learn about studying medicine in Australia. Guide covers MBBS vs MD, UCAT ANZ, GAMSAT, tuition costs and practicing as an international medical graduate.
International Medical Graduate (IMG) Advisor • Updated: February 20, 2026
Overview
Australia is a highly popular destination for international students wanting to study medicine. It offers a fantastic lifestyle, excellent clinical training and a healthcare system very similar to the UK's NHS. Australian universities offer both direct-entry undergraduate programs (5-6 years, awarding MBBS or MD) and graduate-entry programs (4 years, awarding MD).
Key Fact
International students who graduate from Australian medical schools are guaranteed an internship (Foundation Year 1 equivalent) in most states, making the transition to becoming a licensed doctor smoother than in many other countries.
Entry Requirements
Academic Standards
- For Undergraduate: High school diploma with excellent grades (A-levels, IB, etc.) and specific prerequisite subjects (usually Chemistry and English).
- For Graduate: A completed bachelor's degree in any discipline (some require specific science prerequisites).
- Undergraduate testing: UCAT ANZ or ISAT (International Student Admissions Test).
- Graduate testing: GAMSAT or MCAT.
Admissions Tests
Undergraduates typically take the UCAT ANZ or ISAT. Postgraduates must endure the GAMSAT, a grueling 5.5-hour exam testing reasoning in humanities and sciences, or the MCAT.
Application Process
1. Choose Entry Route
Decide between undergraduate (direct from high school) or graduate-entry medicine.
2. Standardized Exams
Take the ISAT/UCAT ANZ (Undergrad) or GAMSAT/MCAT (Grad) between March and July.
3. Direct Application
International students typically apply directly to the universities or through approved educational agents, not through a centralized system like UCAS.
4. Interviews
Attend interviews (often MMI format) conducted online or in major global hubs.
Costs & Tuition
| Expense Type | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (International) | $70,000 - $95,000 AUD / year |
| Living Expenses | $25,000 - $35,000 AUD / year |
| Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) | $600 - $1,000 AUD / year |
Note: Costs vary significantly depending on the specific university, state/province and individual lifestyle. Always check official university websites for exact figures.
Pros & Cons of Studying in Australia
Pros
- • Incredible quality of life and weather
- • Direct pathway to work as a doctor in Australia
- • Medical system and culture very similar to the UK
Cons
- • Very high international tuition fees
- • Distance from Europe/North America
- • Internship guarantee can occasionally fluctuate based on state funding
Notable Medical Schools in Australia
University of Sydney
Offers a highly competitive 4-year MD program for graduates.
University of Melbourne
A leading research institution offering a graduate-entry MD.
Monash University
Offers a direct-entry undergraduate medical program popular with international students.
University of Queensland
Features a large cohort of international students, particularly from North America.
Interactive Directory
Need an alternative route to medicine in Australia?
If you don't meet the direct entry requirements, consider our Medical Foundation Programme to secure your spot at a top university.
Explore Foundation Pathways