Choosing where to study medicine is one of the biggest decisions aspiring doctors will ever make. Australia is home to some of the world’s most respected medical schools, offering world-class training, advanced research opportunities, and excellent graduate outcomes.
Whether you’re applying straight from high school or after an undergraduate degree, understanding which universities stand out — and why — can help you make a smarter, more strategic decision for your future.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best universities for medicine in Australia in 2026, looking at entry requirements, course structure, graduate pathways, and what makes each program unique.
KIS Summary:
- Explore Australia’s top medical schools ranked for academic excellence, clinical training, and graduate opportunities.
- Compare entry requirements, course structure, and pathways to help choose the right program.
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Top Medical Schools in Australia
| University | Program Type | Program Length | Entry Requirement | Additional Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Sydney (USyd) | Postgraduate MD | 4 years | Bachelor’s Degree + GPA | GAMSAT + Interview |
| Monash University | Undergraduate MBBS/MD | 5 years | High ATAR (~97+) | UCAT + Interview |
| University of Melbourne (UniMelb) | Postgraduate MD | 4 years | Bachelor’s Degree + GPA | GAMSAT + Interview |
| UNSW Sydney | Undergraduate BMed/MD | 6 years | High ATAR (~97+) | UCAT + Interview |
| University of Queensland (UQ) | Postgraduate MD | 4 years | Bachelor’s Degree + GPA | GAMSAT + Interview |
| Australian National University (ANU) | Postgraduate MD | 4 years | Bachelor’s Degree + GPA | GAMSAT + Interview |
| Flinders University | Undergraduate MBBS | 6 years | High ATAR (~96+) | UCAT + Interview |
| University of Adelaide | Undergraduate MBBS | 6 years | High ATAR (~97+) | UCAT + Interview |
| University of Western Australia (UWA) | Postgraduate MD | 4 years | Bachelor’s Degree + GPA | GAMSAT + Interview |
🥇 1. University of Sydney (USYD)
📚 Degree:
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) – postgraduate
- Bachelor of Science / Medical Science pathway (for undergraduate entry)
🧪 Why it stands out:
- One of the oldest and most prestigious medical schools in Australia.
- Strong research focus and excellent hospital placements across Sydney.
- Partnerships with major hospitals like Royal Prince Alfred.
📝 Entry:
- Undergraduate pathway (UCAT + ATAR) or postgraduate MD (GAMSAT + GPA + interview).
🥈 2. Monash University
📚 Degree:
- Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (MD) — direct entry from high school.
🧪 Why it stands out:
- One of the few universities to offer a guaranteed 5-year undergraduate entry medical program.
- Strong international reputation for research and innovation.
- Integrated clinical placements from Year 1.
📝 Entry:
- UCAT + high ATAR (typically above 97) + MMI interview.
🥉 3. University of Melbourne (UniMelb)
📚 Degree:
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) — postgraduate
- Recommended undergraduate pathway: Biomedicine or Science.
🧪 Why it stands out:
- Consistently ranked among the top medical schools globally.
- Emphasis on problem-based learning and research.
- Excellent graduate outcomes and clinical exposure at Melbourne’s top hospitals.
📝 Entry:
- GAMSAT + GPA + structured interview.
4. University of New South Wales (UNSW)
📚 Degree:
- Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine (BMed/MD) — 6-year program.
🧪 Why it stands out:
- One of the most competitive undergraduate programs in Australia.
- Integrated clinical and research-based learning.
- Strong focus on global health and innovation.
📝 Entry:
- UCAT + high ATAR (97+) + structured interview.
5. University of Queensland (UQ)
📚 Degree:
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) — postgraduate
- Undergraduate pathway available via provisional entry.
🧪 Why it stands out:
- Exceptional research facilities and strong clinical network.
- Ranked among the top medical schools in Australia and the Asia-Pacific.
- International exchange opportunities.
📝 Entry:
- GAMSAT or provisional entry (ATAR + interview).
🏥 6. Other Notable Medical Schools
- Australian National University (ANU) – strong research focus, postgraduate MD.
- Flinders University – known for rural health and clinical placements.
- University of Adelaide – excellent undergraduate medicine program.
- University of Western Australia – research excellence and strong hospital affiliations.
🩺 Final Thoughts
Getting into medicine in Australia is highly competitive — but also incredibly rewarding. The best university for you will depend on your academic background, preferred learning style, and career goals.
By understanding entry requirements and what makes each program unique, you can build a clear application strategy and maximise your chances of success.
For more useful tips and UCAT preparation advice, check out these KIS Academics article:
Manoj Arachige
Manoj Arachige
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