Best Universities in Perth

For international students, Perth is the “city of opportunity.”  With a low cost of living, beautiful climate and nature, and a wide range of job prospects, there’s no limit to what you can achieve. The city ranks 35th in the QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2025, owning many renowned universities and colleges, such as Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University, and the University of Notre Dame. These universities offer many courses at diploma, certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, and research levels.

Perth combines natural beauty with academic excellence, affordability, and a high standard of living. Whether you’re looking for quality education, a multicultural experience, or a strong foundation for your future career, Perth is a smart choice for international students.

Learn more about what to expect from studying in Perth below. To begin your application to study in Australia, arrange a free consultation today.

Reasons to Study in Perth

Perth, the vibrant capital of Western Australia, is known for its year-round sunshine, clear blue skies, and stunning beaches. Beyond its natural beauty, Perth boasts a strong economy, a high quality of life, and a reputation for innovation. It also consistently records one of the lowest unemployment rates in Australia, making it an ideal destination for international students.

1. World-Class Education

Perth is home to several prestigious institutions that offer globally recognised qualifications. These include the University of Western Australia (UWA), a member of the Group of Eight, as well as Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, and Murdoch University. These universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry links.

2. Affordable Cost of Living

Compared to other major Australian cities such as Sydney or Melbourne, Perth offers a lower cost of living without compromising on quality. It has been ranked 23rd for student desirability and 50th in global student opinion rankings, highlighting its appeal to those seeking value and quality. International students in Perth benefit from a wide range of affordable accommodation, convenient transport options, reasonably priced food, and accessible leisure and entertainment choices.

3. Convenient and Affordable Transport

Getting around Perth is easy, thanks to its well-connected and efficient public transport system. The Transperth network includes buses, trains, and ferries, making travel around the city seamless. International students are eligible for a Tertiary SmartRider Card, which provides discounted fares across all forms of public transport. This makes commuting to university, work placements, or social events both affordable and stress-free.

4. A Diverse and Inclusive Community

Perth is one of the most multicultural cities in Australia, welcoming people from over 200 different countries. This diversity is reflected in the city’s vibrant food scene, cultural festivals, and inclusive community atmosphere. From international film festivals to world music events, Perth offers something for everyone. As a student, you’ll find a welcoming environment where you can meet people from all walks of life and build lasting global friendships.

5. Excellent Career Prospects

Perth offers strong post-study work opportunities across various sectors. Key industries in the region include mining, healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, and technology. Many universities in Perth provide access to internships, industry placements, and career services that support students in gaining real-world experience. International students can also work part-time while studying, which is a great way to develop professional skills and earn income.

List of Universities in Perth

Curtin University

Curtin University is an Australian public research university established in 1900 in Bentley, Perth, Australia. Ranking 183rd in the QS World Rankings 2026, Curtin University takes pride in being recognised nationally and internationally for its academic excellence and research, making it one of the top universities in Perth.

Besides education, Curtin University has a vibrant campus life comprised of student clubs and societies, food and retail outlets, and eight short—and long-stay accommodation facilities. It is a place of inspiration and innovation, with technology-rich learning spaces and opportunities to meet new people.

Murdoch University

Murdoch University is a public university established in 1873 in Perth, Western Australia, offering higher education to students. It operates satellite campuses in Dubai and Singapore, and its main campus is in Perth. According to the QS Stars Assessment, the university has been rated five-star overall for teaching, employability, learning facilities, and inclusiveness. The university has 15 research areas rated “above world standard” by the Australian Research Council.

It is one of the best universities in Perth, featuring beautiful bushland, specialised educational and recreational facilities and many student services. Whether you are a high school student who wants to upskill, change careers, or seek an overseas learning experience, Murdoch University allows you to think outside the box and create your career path.

Edith Cowan University

Edith Cowan University ranks sixth for sports-related subjects in the QS Subject Rankings, with other subjects like business management, performing arts, nursing studies, and education ranking in the top 100 globally. ECU provides a supportive learning environment by offering different facilities and services, like computer labs, counselling, childcare, libraries, clubs, societies, cafes, and bookshops.

University of Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame is an Australian research university that offers admission into undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional courses to students who wish to pursue their academics in a unique scholar community. The university’s faculties include arts and humanities, science, business, medicine, nursing, pathways, philosophy, and theology. It has obtained 5-star ratings for skills development in the Good Universities Guide 2023.

The campus life is breathtaking as it aims to create a distinct home for students, staff, and faculty. The unified campus has around 28 eateries, 500+ student clubs and groups, 32 residence halls, and five recreational venues, making it one of the top universities in Perth. As a graduate of Notre Dame University, you will be guided by a community of scholars, scientists, and artists who work at the highest level and engage in many collaborative projects across various disciplines.

The University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a public research university established in 1911 by an act of the Parliament of Western Australia. Committing to research and education globally, UWA ranks 77th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and is in first position in Western Australia for graduate employability.

The University of Western Australia staff are involved in more than 74 research and training centres and significant national research facilities, making it one of Perth’s best universities for international students. Besides academics, the university campus offers recreational activity centres and essential amenities, including cafes, libraries, bookshops, and many clubs and societies to interact with people.

Study in Perth

Being Australia’s fourth most populous city with affordable living costs and unique academic options, Perth is home to many international students.

If you want to study in Perth, you can give yourself the best chance of successfully applying by arranging a free consultation today.