Australia is known for its world-class universities, and in 2026, a new player will officially join the ranks — Adelaide University, a powerful merger of two respected institutions: the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia. This newly-formed university is set to become a modern, future-focused institution offering innovative programs, AI-integrated curriculums, and extensive research opportunities.
Whether you’re an international student planning your future in Australia or a local student looking for cutting-edge education, this article will guide you through everything you need to know about the upcoming Adelaide University — from courses offered and fees to scholarships, eligibility, and acceptance rate.
What Is Adelaide University?
Adelaide University is the result of a merger between two major South Australian institutions:
- The University of Adelaide (est. 1874) – one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious universities
- University of South Australia (UniSA) – known for its industry partnerships and practical education
The merger was finalized in 2024, with the new university set to open its doors in January 2026. The vision is clear: to create a modern, research-intensive university built for the future of education and innovation.
Courses Offered at Adelaide University
Adelaide University aims to offer a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across multiple faculties. The curriculum will be designed with a strong emphasis on digital literacy, AI skills, and industry engagement.
Major Fields of Study
- Engineering & IT
- Health & Medical Sciences
- Business & Economics
- Creative Industries
- Law & Social Sciences
- Education
- Natural & Physical Sciences
- Architecture & Design
- Environmental & Agricultural Sciences
All courses will include AI and data components, ensuring that graduates are “AI-literate” — an essential skill for the evolving job market.
Estimated Cost of Studying at Adelaide University
Tuition Fees
Fees can vary by course, level, and student type (local or international). Here’s a general estimate for international students:
| Program Type | Estimated Annual Tuition Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Courses | $30,000 – $42,000 |
| Postgraduate Courses | $32,000 – $45,000 |
| Medical & Health Degrees | $50,000+ |
For domestic students, the fees will follow the Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) structure, with government contributions lowering the cost significantly.
Living Expenses
Living in Adelaide is more affordable compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The average monthly cost (excluding tuition) is:
| Expense Type | Monthly Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared) | $600 – $900 |
| Food | $300 – $500 |
| Transport | $100 – $150 |
| Miscellaneous | $200 – $300 |
| Total Estimate | $1,200 – $1,800 |
Scholarships at Adelaide University
The university plans to offer generous scholarships for both local and international students. While the exact details will be finalized closer to 2026, here’s what students can expect:
Types of Scholarships
- Merit-Based Scholarships
- Equity & Access Scholarships
- Women in STEM Scholarships
- Indigenous Student Scholarships
- Research Scholarships (HDR/PhD)
International Students
Adelaide University is expected to provide:
- 25%–50% tuition fee reduction scholarships
- Full-tuition awards for high-achieving students
- Country-specific scholarships
Keep an eye on the official website when applications open in mid-2025 for detailed eligibility and deadlines.
Admission Eligibility & Requirements
Adelaide University will welcome students from all backgrounds. The admission process will be similar to those at other top Australian universities.
Undergraduate Entry (International Students)
- High school certificate equivalent to Australian Year 12
- Minimum academic percentage (usually 70% or above)
- English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 79+)
- Some programs may require portfolios, interviews, or prerequisite subjects
Postgraduate Entry
- Recognized bachelor’s degree
- Minimum GPA requirement (varies by program)
- English language test scores (same as above)
- Work experience may be required for some professional courses
Local Students (Australia)
- ATAR score for undergraduate entry
- Bachelor’s degree for postgrad entry
- Option to apply through SATAC (South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre)
Acceptance Rate at Adelaide University
The expected acceptance rate of the new Adelaide University is projected to be around 73% to 75%, based on the current averages of its parent universities. This means the university will be moderately competitive, offering accessible opportunities for qualified domestic and international students.
Adelaide University aims to maintain academic excellence while promoting diversity and global outreach. Programs like Medicine, Dentistry, and Law will likely have stricter entry requirements and lower acceptance rates compared to general undergraduate degrees.
This balance makes Adelaide University a strong option for students who are academically prepared and enthusiastic about studying in a research-forward, digitally driven environment.
Comparison Table: Adelaide University vs Other Top SA Universities
| Feature | Adelaide University (2026) | University of Adelaide (Current) | UniSA (Current) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Courses | AI-integrated, interdisciplinary | Traditional programs | Practical, industry-aligned |
| Campus | Merged campuses across Adelaide | North Terrace campus | Multiple SA campuses |
| Focus | Research + Future Tech | Research-intensive | Industry engagement |
| Scholarships (Int’l) | 25%–100% estimated | Up to 30% | Up to 50% |
| Opening Year | 2026 | 1874 | 1991 |
| Application Opens | Mid-2025 | Rolling | Rolling |
| Acceptance Rate | 73% – 75% (estimated) | ~75% | ~73% |
Why Choose Adelaide University?
- Future-Proof Degrees – All programs will include digital and AI learning.
- Research Excellence – Backed by two strong research institutions.
- Affordable City – Adelaide is one of the most affordable cities for students in Australia.
- Career-Focused – Strong links with industries for internships and job placements.
- Global Recognition – Expected to enter global rankings quickly due to its foundations.
- Balanced Admissions – Competitive but fair acceptance rate for qualified applicants.
Final Thoughts
The launch of Adelaide University marks a historic moment for Australian higher education. As the institution opens in 2026, students can expect a modern, well-integrated, and globally competitive education that blends academic excellence with future-focused skills.
Whether you’re planning to study business, healthcare, computer science, or law — Adelaide University promises to deliver programs that are not only relevant today but also essential for tomorrow.
If you’re an international student dreaming of studying in Australia, this new university should definitely be on your radar.
How to Stay Updated
- Visit the University of Adelaide and UniSA websites
- Follow updates from the South Australian government
- Applications for the 2026 intake are expected to open in mid to late 2025