Can you imagine sitting in a classroom where the teacher focuses on you? Where can you listen to and interact with the teacher nearby? The land down under hosts many of the world’s most renowned universities. While the prestigious group of 8 is the one that is mainly talked about, many universities might not be as prestigious as the group of 8 but still provide multiple growth and learning opportunities. This makes the universities extremely popular among students all over the world.

In this blog, we will focus on the critical features of level 2 universities in Australia and explore why they are a viable option for students worldwide.

Deakin University:

The Deakin University, established in 1974, stands in the middle of the city of Victoria, offering a vibrant urban experience. Due to its strong policies and industry-based learning, the university is among the top 1% of universities worldwide. The university presents both undergraduate and postgraduate opportunities to all aspirants in various fields. The university has four campuses, with the Burwood campus being its main campus. The University is famous for its well-equipped and green buildings. Not only this, but the other campuses also offer great views of the Australian landscapes. Deakin University also provides further learning opportunities to its students through clubs, conferences, networking events, internships, and placements later in companies with their industry collaborators.

Deakin University's success is reflected in the high employability of its graduates, who are in high demand in the international job market. This is a testament to the university's commitment to providing quality education and preparing its students for successful careers, instilling confidence in potential students about their prospects.

Fees and scholarships:

The average tuition fee is AUD 30,000- 40,000 per year for the undergraduate program and AUD 35,000- 45,000 per year for the postgraduate program. The university also offers merit—and need-based scholarships for its talented students, the most popular of which is the Deakin Vice-Chancellor International Scholarship.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Every student must have a high school diploma, IB degree, CBSE, or equivalent from any institute recognised by the Australian Education Ministry. Every course has a minimum CGPA requirement.
• Students must possess a bachelor-level degree from a recognised university for a post-graduate degree.
• Some courses may require their applicants to submit test scores for the GRE/GMAT or previous work experience for a PhD.
• International students may be required to submit proof of English language Proficiency. Different universities may need other tests, such as IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/CAE or the Duolingo test, with a minimum score of 6 or 6.5 for IELTS or a band score of 80 or higher.

Courses Offered:

• Health Sciences
• Engineering
• Business
• Education
• Law

Application Process:

• You can apply for a degree online on the university’s websites
• Or ask an agent to apply for you
• Students need a copy of their academic transcripts and passport-sized pictures.
• A certificate of proof for language proficiency, statement of purpose and resume.
• All this and a complete online application form must be submitted before the deadline. 
• This is done so that the application stands out in the admissions pool.

2. Griffith University:

Griffith University, ranked among the top 2% of the world's universities, offers a unique blend of research, learning, and stunning natural beauty. Its five campuses are located in some of Australia's most picturesque locations, allowing students to study in inspiring settings and enjoy the country's beautiful beaches closer to campus. This natural beauty not only provides a conducive learning environment but also inspires a sense of connection to the Australian landscape.

Griffith University students study in excellent settings with well-equipped classrooms. They can also visit the country's beautiful beaches near their campus.

Fees and scholarships:

The university charges an annual tuition fee that ranges from AUD 29,500 to AUD 40,000, depending on the type of course. To attract more international students, the university offers scholarships, such as the Griffith International Distinction Scholarship, which covers up to 25% of the tuition fees for international students.

Eligibility Criteria:

• For a bachelor’s degree, every applicant must have a 12-year qualification, an Australian 12-year education, a high school diploma, IB, or equivalent.
• All students must have the minimum CGPA requirement set by the university.
• They must present proof of English Language Proficiency. They can show the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo test scores.
• The requirements for the postgraduate degree are a master's degree, relevant research work, or previous work experience in the appropriate field.

Courses Offered:

• Environmental Sciences
• Health Sciences
• Social Policy
• Law
• Hospitality Management

Admissions Process:

• Pick the course you desire
• Confirm the eligibility
• Gather your documents
• Pay the application fee
• The application fee could range from AUD 100-150
• Submit the application online
• The application can be tracked online once it is submitted

3. Macquarie University:

Located in the heart of Sydney, Macquarie University is among the country's oldest and most popular research-based universities. The campus is famous all around Australia for its education, extensive library with bookshelves touching the roof, and beautiful architecture. This unique feature of the university is sure to impress and inspire students, making them eager to explore the campus and its resources.

Being a vast university located in the city, the university has made the lives of its students more accessible by providing its metro station. After the metro station was set up, the town became more accessible to students. This factor has also become a major attraction for international students. Along with this, the university also offers clubs, societies, and mentoring programs for all students. Like all the universities in the country, the university also collaborates with the country's industry giants. Where internships and collaborations offer opportunities to grow. The University also has significantly contributed to research and development in hearing and cognitive sciences. All this is done in the Hearing Hub, a research centre explicitly developed for these fields.

 Fees and Scholarships:

The average tuition fee for Macquarie University ranges from AUD 15,000 - 25,000. The university also offers many scholarships to international students, such as the Pakistan Early Acceptance scholarships, the Vice-Chancellor's International scholarships, and the Phd Project scholarships.

Eligibility Criteria:

• For a bachelor’s degree, every applicant must have a 12-year qualification, an Australian 12-year education, a high school diploma, IB, or equivalent.
• All students must have the minimum CGPA requirement set by the university.
• They must present proof of English Language Proficiency. They can show the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo test scores.
• Language proficiency proof with a minimum score of 6.5 in IELTS, 79 for TOEFL and 58 in PTE.
• GRE or GMAT may be required for some courses.
• The requirements for the postgraduate degree are a master's degree, relevant research work, or previous work experience in the appropriate field.

Applications Process:

Here is a general application process to Apply at Macquarie 

• Choose the program of your choice
• Cross-check the entry requirements
• Review the admission requirements
• Check your financial options
• Check if you match the eligibility requirements
• Pay the application fee between AUD 100-150
• Submit the application online
• Respond to the offer letter.

Courses offered:

• Health Sciences 
• Actuarial Studies
• Finance 
• Business 
• Economics
• Arts and humanities
• Social Sciences
• Law

4. The Murdoch University:

The Public University of Murdoch is the second university in Western Australia. The university began operations in 1973 and enrolled its first undergraduate students in 1975. Ranked in the top 500 among the QS world rankings and the top 100 in the country, this university in Perth is among some of the most accredited universities in the country. The university has many facilities for students to learn, study, and grow. The institution thrives by providing an environment where diverse perspectives and critical thinking flourish independently.

Under its internationalisation strategy, the university has built campuses in Dubai and Singapore and introduced exchange programs that increase students' overall learning experience.

Fees and Scholarships:

The average tuition fee for the undergraduate program at the university ranges from AUD 30,000 to 40,000 per year. The university has also introduced merit-based scholarships for international students, such as the Murdoch University International Scholarships, which offers some percentage of the tuition fees waived.

Eligibility Criteria:

• For a bachelor’s degree at Murdoch University, applicants must have a 12-year qualification, an Australian 12-year education, a high school diploma, IB, or equivalent.
• All students must have the minimum CGPA requirement set by the university. The university website provides this information.
• They must present proof of English Language Proficiency. They can show the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo test scores.
• Language proficiency proof with a minimum score of 6.5 in IELTS, 80– for TOEFL and 58 in PTE.
• GRE or GMAT may be required for some courses.
• A bachelor's degree is required from a recognised and accredited university for a postgraduate degree.
• If you are seeking admission for the postgraduate degree, you’ll need to present a master's degree, relevant research work, or previous work experience in the relevant field.

Courses offered:

• Veterinary Sciences
• Education
• Counter-terrorism
• Creative Arts
• Law
• Communication
• Business
• Sports and Exercise Sciences

Application Process: 

• Choose the program of your choice.
• Cross-check the entry requirements.
• Review the admission requirements.
• Personal Statement.
• Check your financial options.
• Check if you match the eligibility requirements.
• Pay the application fee between AUD 100-150.
• Submit the application online.
• Respond to the offer letter.

5. La Trobe University:

La Trobe University’s main campus is located in the heart of Melbourne. Its strategic location offers opportunities to learn, grow, and strive by providing ample opportunities for academic and social activities. There are also enough opportunities for student organisations, events, exchange and engagement programs, and more. Students can also manage an excellent study-life balance by engaging in extracurricular activities.

Fees and Scholarships:

The university takes around AUD 25,000 to 35,000 per year for the undergraduate program and AUD 30,000 to 40,000 for the postgraduate program. There are also many scholarships, such as the La Trobe Academic Excellence Scholarship. The scholarship offers a 25% tuition fee waiver to international students with an excellent academic record. The requirement, however, is to maintain a specific CGPA throughout the studies.

Eligibility Criteria:

• To obtain a bachelor's degree at Murdoch University, applicants must have a 12-year qualification, an Australian 12-year education, a high school diploma, IB, or equivalent.
• All students must have the minimum CGPA requirement set by the university. The university website provides this information.
• They must present proof of English Language Proficiency. They can show the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo test scores.
• Language proficiency proof with a minimum score of 6.5 in IELTS, 80– for TOEFL and 58 in PTE.
• GRE or GMAT may be required for some courses.
• A bachelor's degree is required from a recognised and accredited university for a postgraduate degree.
•  For the postgraduate degree, the university may require a master's degree, relevant research work, or previous work experience in the relevant field.

Courses:

• Public health 
• Arts, social sciences
• Communication
• Criminology
• Business and Commerce
• Information Technology
• Science
• Law
• Education and Training

Admissions Process:

• You can select a course online on the company’s website.
• After selecting the course, you can apply via the online portal.
• You can also refer to agents online to apply for you.
• After you have selected, you can submit your application online along with all the copies of your documents.
• Students must submit an application fee of around AUD 100 along with their application.

6. James Crook University:

The James Crook University is a public university that acts as the social country's, intellectual and economic fabric of the James Cook University, striving on the idea of tropics with its main campuses and research centres being built at tropical locations. The university also offers remote and regional study and research centres. JCU’s main campuses are located in Cairns, Singapore and Townsville. Its research centres are located in the Great Barrier Reef, Marine Reef Park and the western Rainforest. It has over 20 research institutions under its supervision, with the Crains Institute and the Australian Institute of Health and Medicine being the most popular.

Courses offered:

• Medicine
• Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Physiotherapy
• Law
• Education
• Occupational Therapy
• Speech Therapy
• Psychology
• Veterinary Sciences
• Business
• Geography
• Oceanography

Eligibility Criteria:

• To obtain a bachelor's degree at Murdoch University, applicants must have a 12-year qualification, an Australian 12-year education, a high school diploma, IB, or equivalent.
• All students must have the minimum CGPA requirement set by the university. The university website provides this information.
• They must present proof of English Language Proficiency. They can show the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo test scores.
• Language proficiency proof with a minimum score of 6.5 in IELTS, 80– for TOEFL and 58 in PTE.
• GRE or GMAT may be required for some courses.
• A bachelor's degree is required from a recognised and accredited university for a postgraduate degree.
• The requirements for the postgraduate degree are a master's degree, relevant research work, or previous work experience in the relevant field.

Admissions Process:

Australian nationals can submit their applications to the university, whereas international students may submit their complete application forms online. A complete application form needs all the transcripts, experience certificates and certificates of proof of language. The students must submit a nonrefundable application fee of AU $100 along with all the documents.

7. The Central Queensland University:

Founded in 1967 in Rockhampton, Central Queensland University gained the status of an entire university in 1992. Since its establishment, the university’s walls and vision have burgeoned. The university now has 11 campuses all around Australia. These campuses aim to deliver world-class inclusive education and research to every pupil in Australia. In its 175 years of being one of Australia’s most accessible universities, it has partnered with multiple regional universities. 

The University also holds the honour of being the pioneer of online education in the country. After the pandemic, the institute follows a hybrid learning mode by adding modern technology. Many students from distant places of the world are now a part of CQ’s distant learning community and benefit from their curriculums. The university is also a proud recogniser of the reconciliation Action Plan. For years, the university has been increasing the engagement and participation of the Aboriginal community and Torres Strait Islanders. The Research for Indigenous communities is done under the Jawun Indigenous Research Center. Like this, several research centres have been working under the supervision of the university.

Fees and Scholarships:

One of the university's main goals is to be accessible to all, which is why the university has set tuition fees at extremely low levels, ranging from AU $25,000 to $35,000.

To attract more students to the campus, the university offers a variety of scholarships. One is the International Students Scholarship, which offers 25% tuition fee relief based on merit. The university also offers the Vice Chancellor's Scholarship, which provides financial relief to international students with excellent academic and leadership skills.

Eligibility Criteria:

• To apply for the bachelor's program, a student must have 12 years of education, a high school diploma, or a 12-year Australian degree.
• For the postgraduate program, a bachelor's degree is required.
• All the degrees should be from accredited universities that are recognised in Australia.
• Students must be proficient in English, with a minimum score of 6.5 on the IELTS and 80 on the TOEFL. 
• The university also accepts test scores for Duolingo and PTE.
• Some programs may have specific health & fitness requirements.
• A few programs may ask for the GRE/GMAT
• Postgraduate degrees also require relevant work or research experience.

Admissions Process:

• The entire application can be filled out online on the company’s website.
• International students can submit a soft copy of all their documents and the application.
• A non-refundable application fee of AU $100 is to be submitted along with the application.
• Students who don't meet the regular entry requirements can enter the university through flexible pathways such as preparatory and bridging courses.

Courses Offered:

• Trades and Training
• Business
• Accounting and Law
• Creative, performing and visual arts
• Education
• Humanities
• Engineering and built environment
• Health
• Information technology and digital media
• Psychology
• Social Work and Community Service
• Science and Environment

8. The Western Sydney University:

Vibrant and inclusive Western Sydney University is located in the country's fastest-growing economy. The institute has multiple campuses nationwide, including Parramatha, Pernith, and Campbell. Due to its global recognition and inclusive education system, the university welcomes thousands of international students annually. This allows the students to explore and learn about different cultures and backgrounds. 

The University is also a successor of the Australian Vice-Chancellors Committee. All its campuses have modern facilities, including libraries, research, and recreational facilities. In addition to these facilities, the university provides opportunities for extracurricular activities through clubs, exchange programs, and internship programs.

Fees and Scholarships:

The university charges an average fee from AU $28,000 to AU $40,000 for international students. It is important to note that the tuition fee varies from course to course. Some courses, such as medicine and pharmaceutical sciences, may cost more than others. The University also offers merit and need-based scholarships to international students, such as the Western Sydney International Scholarships. Along with this, the university grants around 20 million dollars every year for scholarships.

Eligibility Criteria:

• To apply for the bachelor's program, a student must have 12 years of education, a high school diploma, or a 12-year Australian degree.
• For the postgraduate program, a bachelor's degree is required.
• All the degrees should be from accredited universities that are recognised in Australia.
• Students must be proficient in English, with a minimum score of 6.5 on the IELTS and 80 on the TOEFL. 
• The university also accepts test scores for Duolingo and PTE.
• Some programs may have specific health & fitness requirements.
• A few programs may ask for the GRE/GMAT.
• Postgraduate degrees also require relevant work or research experience.

Courses Offered:

• Architecture
• Agriculture and Veterinary
• Business
• Creative Industry
• Cyber Security Behaviour
• Engineering and Construction
• Information Technology
• Property
• Interpreting and Translation
• Health and Medicine
• Social Sciences
• Law
• Humanities
• Travel and Hospitality

Application Process:

• Apply online on the university’s website
• Students should pick their preferred courses 
• After collecting all the documents, students must submit them online along with the application form
• Two passport-sized photos are to be submitted along with the application
• Some courses may have specific requirements such as GMAT, entry tests, and financial or fitness requirements.
• Along with the application, a nonrefundable deposit will be submitted, and the deposit is between AU $100 and $150.

Conclusion:

To conclude, all Australian universities offer ample opportunities for students to learn, grow, and do research. Owing to their popularity, each university hosts many international students. Each university provides unique perks to all the students, from different scholarships to research opportunities to student exchange programs. If you have been disheartened by the Go8 or other level 1 universities, you may apply to these universities.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the difference between level 1 and level 2 universities in Australia?

Level 1 universities are elite universities in Australia—usually, the Group of 8 falls under the level 1 category. Level 2 universities, however, may not be as elite as Level 1 universities but still offer academic diversity and career opportunities. Level 2 university classrooms are smaller and have a close-knit educational community.

2. Are level 2 universities recognised globally?

While level 2 universities might not be as recognised globally as level 1 universities, many are still recognised globally and collaborate with reputed institutions worldwide. 

3. What kind of perks do level 2 universities offer?

Level 2 universities offer their students many perks, such as academic counselling, career counselling, mental health support, internships and placements. 

4. Is RMIT a level 2 university?

Yes, RMIT is a level 2 university. It has been ranked 123rd by the QS world ranking.

5. What is the eligibility criteria for level 2 universities in Australia?

• To apply for the bachelor's program, a student must have 12 years of education, a high school diploma, or a 12-year Australian degree.
• For the postgraduate program, a bachelor's degree is required.
• All the degrees should be from accredited universities that are recognised in Australia.
• Students must be proficient in English, with a minimum score of 6.5 on the IELTS and 80 on the TOEFL. 
• The university also accepts test scores for Duolingo and PTE.
• Some programs may have specific health & fitness requirements.
• A few programs may ask for the GRE/GMAT.