Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University offers admission options and pathways to provide access to students with a broad range of educational backgrounds and experience. Direct application is simple and free.

International applicants can apply directly through the University's international application portal or through an approved education agent. Admission requirements typically include proof of academic qualifications, visa information, proof of English language proficiency if English isn’t your first language, and any specific prerequisites for certain programs. The University provides dedicated support for international students, including guidance on visa applications, housing options, and orientation programs to help them acclimate to life in Australia.

Domestic applicants can apply for undergraduate and postgraduate programs through the UAC (Universities Admissions Centre), QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre) or directly via the University’s application portal . Undergraduate programs typically assess the ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) along with any subject prerequisites for specific courses. Alternative pathways are available for mature-age students and those from non-traditional backgrounds, as the University values diverse educational experiences.

Credit for recognition of prior learning is assessed upon request during the application process. The University also offers various scholarships and financial aid options to ensure that all students have the resources and support needed to succeed in their academic journey.

Southern Cross University is committed to providing students with state-of-the-art facilities and hands-on learning experiences. The University has three main campuses : Lismore , Coffs Harbour and the Gold Coast .

Our Lismore campus—set on 75 hectares of lush, sub-tropical rainforest—has recreational facilities including an indoor gym and heated pool, two indoor sports courts, two sports fields and four tennis courts. The campus includes eateries, the library, student services, study spaces, recreation hall and fitness centre. For practical learning, specialised labs for disciplines in health, science and engineering provide immersive experience. On-campus accommodation is available in the form of modern, fully furnished four-bedroom apartments.

Our Coffs Harbour campus on the mid north coast of NSW sits among rolling hills and bushland at the heart of an innovation and education hub. In addition to many of the same facilities as at Lismore, the campus hosts a Health Sciences building with labs for physiological assessment, teaching and simulated hospital wards. On the north side of the city is the University’s renowned National Marine Science Centre, bringing together the Solitary Islands Aquarium, an aquaculture farm, a hatchery, and extensive labs.

Our Gold Coast campus, conveniently located next to Gold Coast Airport in southeast Queensland, houses anatomy, physiology and advanced health sciences labs along with a Digital Enterprise Lab that functions as an incubator for digital technologies.

We also have metro campuses in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth; and The Hotel School Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Student life

Student life at Southern Cross University is vibrant and diverse, offering a rich blend of academic and social experiences. Campuses located in stunning coastal areas like the Gold Coast and Coffs Harbour, or rainforest regions like Lismore, provide a backdrop for both study and leisure.

The beautiful surroundings provide many opportunities for outdoor activities , including surfing, hiking, and exploring national parks. We host numerous clubs and societies catering to a wide range of interests, from sports and culture to environmental advocacy. On-campus events such as orientation week and cultural festivals create a lively atmosphere where students can connect and make lasting friendships.

We provide a supportive environment that encourages interaction between students and academics, with opportunities to participate in key research projects. Many courses in health, education and agriculture are co-designed with industry partners, ensuring our students are job-ready once they graduate. We prioritise student well-being with various support services , including mental health resources, academic assistance and career counselling.