Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Australian National University
Founded by the Australian Parliament to be the nation's research university, ANU sits beside Lake Burley Griffin in the capital. Its scale feels intimate, and its proximity to government and national institutions shapes much of what it does.
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At a Glance
- Location
- Acton, Canberra
- Campus environment
- Leafy, walkable, residential
- Student population
- Approx. 25,000
- International community
- Large and highly diverse
- Academic strengths
- Policy, politics, sciences, Asia-Pacific studies
- Academic calendar
- Two semesters (Feb & Jul intakes)
- Campus setting
- Single main campus next to the city centre
Figures are approximate. Always confirm details with the university.
Why students choose it
Why Students Choose ANU
A research culture from day one
Research is central to ANU's identity, and undergraduates often find pathways into it early.
Next to national institutions
Parliament, the public service, embassies and national research bodies are all close by.
Residential community
A high proportion of students live on campus, creating a tight social fabric.
Asia-Pacific expertise
Long-standing depth in Asian studies, languages and regional affairs.
Popular Areas of Study
Where it's known for depth.
Life in Canberra
Living in Canberra
Australia's planned capital — lakes, bushland and national institutions, with a calm, student-heavy rhythm.
Lifestyle
Quiet, green and outdoors-oriented. Students often say it's an easy city to focus in.
Transport
Compact and bike-friendly, with buses and a light rail line connecting the city centre.
Accommodation
Many students live on or very near campus, which shapes a close-knit residential culture.
Weather
Four distinct seasons — warm summers and genuinely cold, frosty winter mornings.
Student life
Campus is the social centre; residential halls, clubs and societies are very active.
Living considerations
Costs vary by suburb, lifestyle and accommodation type — check current university and government guidance before budgeting.
Who might love it
ANU might be right for you if…
No university is objectively better than another — the best choice depends on you.
- You prefer a close-knit university environment
- You are interested in policy, economics, international affairs or research
- You like the idea of Canberra's quieter student lifestyle
- You value access to government and national institutions
Perspectives from someone who studies here
Want the student perspective?
Learn from a Vitaliah Student Partner's personal experience of campus life at this university.
Meet Our Student PartnersVitaliah Student Partners share their personal experiences as current students. Their views are their own and should not be interpreted as official university, admissions, migration or visa advice.