Study Medicine in Australia

Why Study Medicine in Australia?

Overview: Medical Education in Australia

Australia is one of the most attractive medical study destinations for UK students — it offers world-class medical education entirely in English, with some of the world's best universities (Melbourne, Sydney, Queensland, ANU, Monash), an outstanding clinical training environment, and an excellent quality of life in one of the world's most desirable countries to live in.

Australia offers both undergraduate medicine (5–6 year MBBS/MD programmes) and postgraduate MD entry, providing flexibility depending on your stage of education. The undergraduate pathway is accessible from UK A-levels, though GAMSAT or UCAT-A (Australian version) may be required depending on the entry route and institution.

Costs are significant — tuition for international students is £30,000–£55,000/year, and living costs in Sydney and Melbourne are comparable to London. However, Australia's post-study work rights are generous and the possibility of permanent residency makes it an option to consider seriously if you are open to a life beyond the UK.

For NHS return, Australian medical graduates follow the PLAB pathway (PLAB 1 and PLAB 2) or apply via the specialist registration route after completing Australian specialist training. Medicine Clearing can help you navigate Australian medical school admissions from the UK.

Entry Requirements for UK Students

Tuition Fees & Living Costs

Sydney and Melbourne are now among the world's most expensive cities — housing costs have risen significantly. Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth are cheaper. Student discounts and share housing help manage costs.

Medical Universities in Australia

6 universities in our network — all vetted for GMC eligibility.

Monash University

Melbourne · 4 years (post-grad)

£37,000/year

University of Melbourne

Melbourne · 4 years (post-grad)

£39,000/year

University of Queensland

Brisbane · 4 years (post-grad)

£36,500/year

University of Sydney

Sydney · 4 years (post-grad)

£38,000/year

University of Western Australia

Perth · 4 years (post-grad)

£35,000/year

UNSW Sydney

Sydney · 6 years (undergraduate) / 4 years (post-grad)

£38,500/year

GMC Recognition & NHS Return Pathway

Two routes: (1) PLAB 1 + PLAB 2 after MBBS/MD for GMC registration. (2) Complete Australian specialty fellowship (FRACP/FRACS) and apply for direct GMC registration as a specialist — opens senior NHS roles.

Student Accommodation in Australia

Visa Requirements for UK Citizens

UK students require an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). Apply via the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Processing takes 4–8 weeks. Requires confirmation of enrolment (CoE), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and proof of funds.

Did You Know? — Australia

• 1

  Australia has 9 universities in the global top 100 — an extraordinary achievement for a country of 26 million

• 2

  The University of Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world's top 30 universities

• 3

  Australian doctors are among the world's highest paid — specialist incomes are exceptional

• 4

  Australia was the first country to trial compulsory UCAT-ANZ for undergraduate medical admissions

• 5

  The Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and the Sydney Opera House are all within reach of Australian medical school locations

Monthly Living Costs Breakdown — Australia

Sydney and Melbourne are now among the world's most expensive cities — housing costs have risen significantly. Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth are cheaper. Student discounts and share housing help manage costs.

Frequently Asked Questions — Study Medicine in Australia

20 questions answered by our senior admissions team.