Adelaide University has a ranking inside the top 8 universities in Australia.
The University of Adelaide is ranked #125 in the world, based on a composite of QS, Times, ARWU, and Webometrics rankings. In Australia, Adelaide Uni is ranked #8 out of 42 universities.
The University of Adelaide (Adelaide Uni) is South Australia's oldest and most prestigious university. The university occupies prime real estate between the Torrens River and North Terrace. Adelaide Uni is the favoured study destination for South Australian students.
Website: adelaide.edu.au | Campuses: Adelaide (North Terrace, Thebarton, Waite), Mount Gambier, Roseworthy, Whyalla [SA], Singapore
UoA is set to merge with the University of South Australia (UniSA) in 2026, creating Adelaide University.
World Ranking
Global Ranking: 125
Adelaide University is ranked 125th globally and is generally considered a top 150 uni in the world. It ranks 82nd in QS but falls lower in ARWU and Webometrics.
QS ranking: 82
Times Higher Education: 128
ARWU: 175
Webometrics: 115
Australia Ranking
Australia Rank: 8
Adelaide University is the eighth-ranked university in Australia, sitting behind the University of Western Australia and ahead of UTS, Macquarie University, and Deakin University. It's the best university in Adelaide and South Australia.
Above: Monash University (5), ANU (6), University of Western Australia (7)
Below: UTS (9), Macquarie University (10), Deakin University (11)
Is Adelaide University Good?
Adelaide University combines the expertise of the former University of Adelaide and University of South Australia, creating the state’s largest network of campuses. Key locations include Adelaide City, Magill for teaching, Waite for agricultural research, and Roseworthy for veterinary science.
Go8 member
Serving South Australia
Programs and centres
The university offers strong programs across health, technology, and environmental sciences, with notable research centres in each area. As a Group of 8 member, it’s committed to boost its global ranking and support South Australia’s educational growth.
Satisfaction: 73.6%
The University of Adelaide reviews indicate satisfaction levels of 72.1% for bachelor degrees and 75.1% for postgraduate students, below national averages. Uni Reviews provides individual ratings and comments.
How Many Students?
Students: 30,174
The University of Adelaide had a total of 30,174 students in 2023, making it the 23rd largest university in Australia.
- International students: 9,026 (30%)
- Postgraduate students: 10,247 (34%)
- Gender ratio: 50% Female : 50% Male
- On-campus students: 27,843 (92%)
Acceptance Rate
Acceptance Rate: 70%
The Adelaide University acceptance rate is 70%. Among students with an ATAR that qualifies for university, 30% are unable to be admitted into their preferred degree.
Required ATAR: 65
It is not hard to get into Adelaide University, with a minimum ATAR of 65 on average. At the time of publishing, the ATAR threshold was 65 for Arts, Bachelor of Business, and Science degrees.
Is Adelaide Uni Going Online?
Yes, the newly formed Adelaide University, merging the University of Adelaide and UniSA, is moving toward a mostly online learning model starting in 2026. Face-to-face lectures will be replaced by digital activities. Currently, around 12,768 bachelor and 5,677 postgraduate students study online. Popular fields at Adelaide University Online include Management and Commerce, and Society and Culture.