Ping Khoo is the Director of International Admissions at the University of Queensland. She tells us more about the University, their experience of Cambridge students and why students should consider the University of Queensland.
About the University of Queensland
‘The University of Queensland (UQ) is one of Australia’s leading research and teaching institutions. We strive for excellence through the creation, preservation, transfer and application of knowledge. For more than a century, we have educated and worked with outstanding people to deliver knowledge leadership for a better world.
‘It is implicit in our vision, “knowledge leadership for a better world”, that UQ seeks to have a global impact. In collaboration with a range of international partners, we offer our students a global educational experience, undertake development initiatives and research that has international impact, and deliver a UQ education to learners from broad and diverse backgrounds.
‘Our success as a university is determined by our ability to attract and retain highly talented, committed people who are leaders in their field. For this reason, we are intent on embedding a supportive and inclusive culture built around UQ’s values, where the many talents, passions and perspectives of our staff and alumni are encouraged and nurtured.
‘To achieve our mission of “delivering for the public good”, we need to first ensure that UQ is securely positioned for the future. That involves diversifying the University’s revenue base, building an endowment fund and investing purposefully in the infrastructure, systems, people and partnerships that will enrich the student experience and broaden the impact of our research.’
International students
‘Students with Cambridge qualifications are among the most common undergraduate applicants to UQ. Semester 1 2023 saw 1595 international students commencing undergraduate study. There are approximately 20 743 international students currently studying at UQ from 137 countries, with the top three international source countries being China, India and Singapore. The UQ Global Strategy and Partnerships Seed Funding Scheme assists UQ faculties, institutes and units to pursue activities that will strengthen the impact of UQ’s global network. Round Two 2023 is open to initiatives in UQ’s priority countries: USA, Vietnam, Indonesia, United Kingdom, Germany, China and India, as well as the Pacific region. In addition, initiatives to expand collaboration with UQ’s premier and emerging premier partners will be prioritised.’
Entry requirements
‘A Levels at UQ are assessed as an aggregate of the best three A Level subjects (or equivalent), where A* = 6, A = 5, B = 4, etc. Undergraduate requirements for entry using A Levels can vary depending on the programme, ranging from 5 to 15; most programmes require 10 to 11. For more information, see UQ’s A Level requirements in the international guide 2024 (see centre spread after page 79).
‘UQ accepts Cambridge IGCSE at Grade C (4) or better for English Language and English as a Second Language to meet both minimum and higher-than-minimum English Language Proficiency requirements (see PPL 3.49.14d2 ELP Admissions Table 2). If English is technically the first language for a student, they may be eligible for a Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI).
‘Cambridge International AS & A Level Global Perspectives & Research is an official course endorsed by many universities in the USA, UK and Canada. UQ also accepts Cambridge International A Level Global Perspectives & Research as an A Level subject, hence the A/AS Level score of this course can be included in the aggregated average of the top 3. There is no specific mention of the course on the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) Schedule. For GCE A/AS Level, UQ follows QTAC’s guideline (QTAC Schedule S4021-S4023). Cambridge IPQ is not considered in addition to other qualifications when processing applications for UQ.’
Scholarships and other financial incentives
‘UQ offers scholarships for international students, both merit-based and on diversity/humanitarian grounds (e.g. refugee status, financial hardship, or other non-academic grounds). These scholarships cover a range of values and applications – most scholarships have some value towards tuition fees, but scholarships may also include a stipend/living allowance, travel support, etc. Tuition scholarships may cover all or a percentage of tuition or be a flat amount. Scholarships may be a payment or may simply be a tuition fee reduction. Depending on the scholarship offered, you may be automatically considered and/or awarded, or your scholarship may require a specific application and be subject to an eligibility panel assessment. Our scholarships website is a useful tool for applicants/agents to find scholarships that are available at UQ based on enrolment status, student type and study level. See here for more information.’
Advice to Cambridge students
‘Scholarship opportunities: With the most generous scholarship offering in the state, you can choose to apply for a range of scholarships throughout your studies.
Careers and employability: Our graduates are the most employable in the state. We are committed to enriching your studies and developing your employability to prepare you for a career you will love.
Industry connections: We are connected to local and global experts, organisations and institutions to keep across current trends. Leverage our connections to learn from and connect with industry leaders and changemakers.’
Why should Cambridge students choose your university?
‘Learn from industry leaders and experts: You will be inspired by passionate and engaging lecturers who are ready to empower you with the skills, confidence and knowledge you need to face a future of unknowns.
Experience a campus lifestyle like no other: Our campuses give you the best of both worlds: a vibrant campus with the tradition of an established university. Learn in our world-class teaching and research facilities, while also enjoying our natural, sporting and cultural amenities.
Social activities: Choose from over 220 clubs and societies to meet like-minded people and create new friendships. Whether related to your studies, or your passion projects, there is a club for everyone at UQ.’