28 May 2025
8 minutes read
Best Graphic Design University in Australia for Indian Students

Key Takeaways
- Graphic design university in Australia offers Indian students practical skills and global career opportunities.
- Clear admission requirements, including portfolio and English proficiency, are essential for success abroad.
- Scholarships and diverse career options make studying design in Australia affordable and rewarding with expert support from Ambitio.
Did you know that Australia is home to some of the world’s top graphic design programs, with universities consistently ranking in global design education charts? This is the biggest benefit of studying in Australia. Aspiring graphic designers often face the daunting task of choosing the Graphic Design University in Australia to nurture their skills. The reality is, not all programs are created equal, and selecting the wrong one can lead to wasted time, money, and missed opportunities.
Finding the perfect fit can be challenging, but there’s good news: Australia offers a range of excellent graphic design programs that cater to different needs. This blog will guide you through the best options, helping you make an informed decision to start your design career on the right path. Whether you’re looking for innovative curriculums, industry connections, or advanced facilities, we’ve got you covered.
Why Study Graphic Design in Australia?
Studying graphic design in Australia provides undergraduate and postgraduate students with practical higher education in a diverse environment. Australia’s focus on hands-on learning helps future graphic designers develop the skills needed to communicate through various mediums, including illustration. With many top-ranked universities, students can expect solid preparation for the global market.
10 Top Universities to Study Graphic Design in Australia
Australia has become a creative hub for Indian students looking to build a rewarding career in graphic design. With world-class bachelor’s and master’s design degrees, practical industry exposure, and accessible pathways, students can explore top design courses in digital media, visual communication, web design, and information design, all while learning from the best in the vibrant cities of Melbourne, Sydney, and Queensland.

Here are the 10 10 Top Universities to Study Graphic Design in Australia
1. RMIT University (Melbourne)
RMIT University is globally known for its creative programs in communication design and digital media. The university offers a hands-on curriculum focused on studio-based learning, branding, web design, and typography. With strong links to the Australian design industry, it’s one of the most popular choices for Indian students.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 36,480 |
Exam Required | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
QS Ranking (2024) | 190 |
Top Course | Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) |
2. University of New South Wales (UNSW)
University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney offers a forward-thinking Bachelor of Design that combines visual design principles with new media and UX/UI. Indian students benefit from exposure to real-world projects and digital platforms, making it a perfect launchpad for a design career.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 39,360 |
Exam Required | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
QS Ranking (2024) | 19 |
Top Course | Bachelor of Design (Visual Communication) |
3. University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) offers a comprehensive design experience focused on digital design, user interaction, and experience design. Students learn advanced design software and work with real clients as part of their curriculum. Located in Sydney, it offers excellent industry networking.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 38,270 |
Exam Required | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
QS Ranking (2024) | 90 |
Top Course | Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication |
4. Monash University (Melbourne)
Monash University (Melbourne) provides one of the best graphic design majors in Australia with a focus on visual storytelling, print and digital media, and branding. It’s ideal for Indian students who want to work on cross-disciplinary, creative projects in a world-class academic setting.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 37,000 |
Exam Required | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
QS Ranking (2024) | 42 |
Top Course | Bachelor of Communication Design |
5. University of Melbourne
With a flexible Bachelor of Design degree, the University of Melbourne allows students to specialise in graphic design, spatial systems, and digital media. The learning experience is research-driven and encourages innovation across various design disciplines.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 39,168 |
Exam Required | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
QS Ranking (2024) | 14 |
Top Course | Bachelor of Design |
6. Griffith University (Queensland)
Griffith University (Queensland) offers a strong foundation in visual communication, digital media, and branding, focusing on real-world design briefs and practical experience. Its studios and labs are equipped to help students build a portfolio that meets global industry standards.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 33,000 |
Exam Required | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
QS Ranking (2024) | 243 |
Top Course | Bachelor of Design |
7. University of South Australia
University of South Australia’s design programs are known for industry-connected learning, with students gaining exposure through live projects and collaborative studios. Indian students find value in its career-focused structure, especially in digital and print media.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 32,600 |
Exam Required | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
QS Ranking (2024) | 326 |
Top Course | Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) |
8. Murdoch University (Western Australia)
Murdoch University provides design degrees that focus on motion graphics, digital media, and creative storytelling. Students work on client-based projects and specialise in using modern design software for various formats including web and mobile.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 29,200 |
Exam Required | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
QS Ranking (2024) | 571–580 |
Top Course | Bachelor of Creative Media |
9. University of Wollongong
University of Wollongong blends theory and hands-on practice in its Bachelor of Creative Arts. With access to modern tools and print/digital labs, students explore visual arts, typography, and branding, preparing for a wide range of roles in the design industry.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 30,240 |
Exam Required | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
QS Ranking (2024) | 185 |
Top Course | Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Arts) |
10. TAFE NSW (New South Wales)
TAFE offers accessible, vocational graphic design courses with a strong focus on building practical skills in branding, web design, and digital publishing. Its diplomas are job-ready and ideal for Indian students seeking a more affordable, hands-on pathway.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | AUD 15,000 |
Exam Required | IELTS |
QS Ranking (2024) | Not Applicable |
Top Course | Diploma in Graphic Design |
What are the Entry Requirements and qualifications needed to get into an Australian Design University?
If you’re an Indian student looking to get into a graphic design university in Australia, you’ll need to meet a set of academic and creative admission requirements. These are designed to ensure you have the foundational skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing global design industry.

Whether you plan to pursue a bachelor of visual design, a diploma, or a graduate degree, here’s a clear breakdown of what universities expect and how you can prepare.
1. Academic Qualifications
To apply for graphic design courses in Australia, you’ll need to complete at least 12 years of schooling. Most universities require a minimum academic score of 65–70% in high school for undergraduate programs and a relevant undergraduate degree for graduate admissions.
2. English Language Proficiency
As courses are taught in English, you’ll need to prove proficiency through exams like IELTS (usually 6.0–6.5 overall), TOEFL, or PTE. This is a core requirement for all degrees on our portal and counts as a mandatory qualification for international students applying from abroad.
3. Portfolio Submission
Most universities that offer design degrees will ask for a creative portfolio. This showcases your ability to learn design, solve problems visually, and work on real or conceptual projects. Your portfolio should include sketch work, branding, typography, or any personal digital designs.
4. Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement
You’ll be required to submit a Statement of Purpose explaining why you want to start your path in design, what makes you passionate about the field, and how you plan to contribute to the industry. This overview helps the admissions committee evaluate your goals and cultural fit.
5. Interview or Design Task (If Required)
Some top universities may also conduct a virtual interview or assign a short design task. This helps them assess how you think, apply concepts, and how well you align with their curriculum and creative culture.
6. Course-Specific Entry Requirements
Certain graphic design university in Australia options like those offering a bachelor of visual communication or digital design majors, may require prerequisite subjects like art, media, or IT. You’ll need to check the program page of the universities that offer these degrees.
7. Scholarship and Funding Eligibility
Many institutions have available scholarships you can apply for, especially for Indian students with excellent portfolios or academic merit. With accessible funding options, grants, and the right financial support, your dream to study abroad becomes more achievable.
8. Additional Documents
You’ll also need to provide standard documents such as transcripts, passport copy, letters of recommendation, and proof of funds. These support your application and ensure your eligibility to study graphic design courses in Australia.
What Scholarship Opportunities are available for International Students in Australia?
Australia is not only home to some of the most innovative design schools but also offers generous scholarships for international students. For Indian students applying to a graphic design university in Australia, these scholarships can reduce financial stress while unlocking access to world-class education.
Whether you want to explore top universities or apply to vocational or graduate programs, many institutions provide merit-based, need-based, or course-specific funding. Below is a table of the most popular scholarships for international students in Australia that you can apply for:
Scholarship Name | Offered By | Eligibility for Indian Students | Applicable To | Benefit |
---|---|---|---|---|
Australia Awards Scholarship | Australian Government | Indian students applying for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs | Most public universities | Full tuition + living expenses |
Destination Australia Scholarship | Australian Government | Regional campus applicants, including design programs | Selected regional universities | Up to AUD 15,000/year |
RMIT International Excellence Scholarship | RMIT University | High-achieving Indian students pursuing design or communication degrees | RMIT (Melbourne) | Partial tuition fee waiver |
UNSW International Scholarship | University of New South Wales | Strong academic merit and portfolio for design applicants | UNSW (Sydney) | Up to AUD 20,000/year |
Monash International Merit Scholarship | Monash University | Indian students with strong academic records applying to visual or communication design | Monash (Melbourne) | AUD 10,000/year |
University of Melbourne International Scholarship | University of Melbourne | Indian students applying for the Bachelor of Design or postgraduate graphic design programs | University of Melbourne | 25% to 100% tuition fee remission |
Griffith Remarkable Scholarship | Griffith University | For students with strong academic background in creative arts or visual communication | Griffith (Queensland) | 50% tuition fee waiver |
University of South Australia International Merit Scholarship | University of South Australia | Automatic for eligible Indian students applying to the Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) | University of South Australia | 25% tuition fee reduction |
TAFE NSW International Scholarship | TAFE NSW | Indian students enrolling in diploma-level design courses | TAFE NSW | AUD 2,000–AUD 5,000 |
Murdoch International Welcome Scholarship | Murdoch University | Available for Indian students applying for Bachelor of Creative Media | Murdoch University (WA) | Up to AUD 11,000 off tuition |
What are the Career Opportunities after Graphic Design Degree in Australia?
Graduating from a top graphic design university in Australia opens doors to dynamic and diverse career paths across the creative, digital, and tech industries. For Indian students, this qualification can lead to local employment, freelancing, or global roles in design-led organizations.
Here’s a table of key career opportunities after completing a graphic design degree in Australia:
Job Title | Key Responsibilities | Average Salary (AUD) | Growth Potential |
---|---|---|---|
Graphic Designer | Create visual content for print and digital media, branding, and marketing | 60,000 – 80,000 | High with experience and niche skills |
UX/UI Designer | Design user experiences and interfaces for apps, websites, and digital platforms | 75,000 – 110,000 | Very High in tech and SaaS sectors |
Creative Director | Lead design teams, manage brand identity, oversee creative strategy | 100,000 – 150,000 | High in agencies and large firms |
Web Designer/Developer | Build visually engaging and functional websites with coding and design tools | 70,000 – 95,000 | High with front-end skills |
Brand Identity Designer | Design logos, visual systems, and brand style guides for businesses | 65,000 – 90,000 | Medium to high with client work |
Motion Graphics Designer | Create animated visuals for video content, ads, and digital storytelling | 70,000 – 100,000 | Growing in marketing and media |
Illustrator/Visual Artist | Develop illustrations for books, products, advertising, or digital art platforms | 50,000 – 80,000 | Medium with niche portfolio |
Freelance Designer | Take on design projects across branding, web, packaging, and social media | Varies widely | Flexible and scalable |
Design Consultant | Advise companies on design strategy, product development, and visual branding | 85,000 – 120,000 | High with specialization |
Packaging Designer | Create product packaging that is both functional and visually appealing | 60,000 – 85,000 | High in retail and e-commerce |
Conclusion
Choosing the right graphic design university in Australia can shape your future in the global creative industry. For Indian students, this journey offers exposure to cutting-edge design tools, real-world projects, and a thriving job market. But success starts with building the perfect profile, and that’s where Ambitio steps in.
Want to get admitted to Australia’s top design schools? Let Ambitio craft your winning application, from portfolio to SOP, and guide you through scholarships and funding options.
Start your creative journey with Ambitio Elite today, where your vision meets expert strategy. Let’s make your dream degree abroad a reality.
FAQs
What is the typical duration of a graphic design degree in Australia?
Most undergraduate graphic design programs in Australia take three years to complete, while postgraduate programs typically take one to two years.
Are there any specific entrance exams required for admission to graphic design programs in Australia?
While most universities do not require specific entrance exams, some may ask for a portfolio review or an interview to assess your design skills and creativity.
Can international students work while studying graphic design in Australia?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks on a student visa.
What types of projects or assignments can I expect in a graphic design program?
Students often work on a variety of projects, including branding, typography, digital media, user experience design, and multimedia presentations.
How do Australian graphic design programs integrate industry experience?
Many programs offer internships, industry projects, and collaborations with design firms to provide real-world experience and professional networking opportunities.
What kind of software skills will I develop in a graphic design program in Australia?
Students typically gain proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), along with other industry-standard tools like Sketch, Figma, and After Effects.
Are there opportunities for international exposure in Australian graphic design programs?
Yes, many universities have exchange programs and partnerships with institutions abroad, allowing students to study overseas and gain international design perspectives.

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