The University of New South Wales vs The University of Sydney
The University of New South Wales
Sydney, Australia
The University of Sydney
Sydney, Australia
Head-to-Head Headliner Comparison
Scan the essential comparative metrics side-by-side to guide your final choice.
| Comparative Indicators | The University of New South Wales | The University of Sydney |
|---|---|---|
| QS World Rank (2025/2026) | #20 | #25 |
| THE World Rank (2025) | #83 | #61 |
| ARWU Shanghai Rank | #80 | #72 |
| US News Global Rank | #36 | #29 |
| Acceptance Rate | 40% | 30% |
| Annual Tuition (Intl) | A$36,300 | A$38,000 |
| Established Year | 1949 | 1850 |
| Total Students Count | 70,238 | 70,298 |
| Campus Safety Rating | 92 / 100 | 92 / 100 |
5-Year Ranking Trajectory
Compare dynamic overall prestige ranking shifts over the past 5 years (lower value = higher rank).
Executive AI Admissions Counselor Verdict
Global Prestige & Reputation Vibe
UNSW's Engineering is highly regarded for its industry-focused, practical curriculum and technical expertise. The University of Sydney's Engineering, while equally prestigious, draws from the university's broader academic excellence, offering a more traditional, research-intensive environment. Both maintain top-tier global standing.
Elite Academic Strengths & Major Comparison
UNSW features lower tuition ($49k Bachelor's, $46k Master's) versus USyd's consistent $52k. USyd's PhD (Electrical Engineering) is shorter (3.5 vs 4 years), and explicitly offers a Master of Engineering (Software Engineering). UNSW provides potential full tuition waivers; USyd offers varied fee reductions or stipends.
Campus Culture & Daily Student Vibe
Students prioritizing an explicit Master's in Software Engineering or a shorter PhD duration should choose The University of Sydney. Those seeking lower tuition, potentially higher scholarship value, or a strong industry-integrated undergraduate focus should favour The University of New South Wales.
Discipline Focus Showdown
Click on any subject in the QS Showdown table below to dynamically compare specific majors, annual tuition fees, and scholarship opportunities side-by-side.
The University of Programs
The University of Programs
Exclusive Scholarships Face-off
Value: Up to 100% tuition fee waiver or AUD 20,000 per annum
Value: AUD 5,000 - AUD 10,000 per annum
Value: AUD 10,000 for one year
Value: Up to 40,000 AUD for the duration of the degree
Value: 20% tuition fee reduction
Value: Tuition fees and living stipend (approx. 35,000 AUD per year)
QS Subject Rankings Showdown
Head-to-head QS subject rankings. Click on any subject row to dynamically pull direct courses and scholarships in the Discipline Focus card above!
The University of Exclusive Edge
The University of Exclusive Edge
Source: QS World University Rankings by Subject. Rankings reflect the best available year in our database.
Cost of Living Face-off
Detailed ballpark monthly student expenditure comparison based on city indices.
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