🏆Global Rank : 445
James Cook University (JCU Queensland)
A world-class university ranked in the top 2% globally, specializing in tropical and marine research with campuses in Cairns and Townsville [citation:5]
Overview
James Cook University (JCU) is a public university founded in 1961 and is recognized as one of the world's leading institutions for research in tropical and marine environments. JCU's primary Queensland campuses are located in Cairns (Smithfield) and Townsville, offering students access to the Great Barrier Reef, Wet Tropics rainforests, and unique dry tropical landscapes [citation:5][citation:3]. The university is ranked #445 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and is known for its strengths in marine biology, environmental science, medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science [citation:5]. JCU Queensland provides students with world-class research facilities, industry connections, and hands-on learning opportunities, including access to the Daintree Rainforest Observatory and the Orpheus Island Research Station. With a focus on sustainability and real-world impact, JCU prepares graduates for global careers in science, health, business, and the humanities.
Location
Cairns (Smithfield) & Townsville, Queensland, Australia
Established
1961-01-01
National Ranking
#26
Intakes
| Program | Intake Name | Start Date | Seats Available | End Date | |
| N/A | Mid-Year 2026 (May) | 5/10/2026 | Open for most programs | 8/30/2026 | |
| N/A | Spring 2026 (September) | 9/10/2026 | Open for most programs | 12/18/2026 | |
| N/A | Semester 1 2027 (February/March) | 2/22/2027 | Applications close 30 June 2026 | 6/25/2027 | |
| N/A | Semester 2 2026 (July) | 7/20/2026 | Open for most programs | 11/30/2026 | |
| N/A | Semester 1 2026 (February/March) | 2/23/2026 | Limited for competitive courses | 6/19/2026 |
Requirements
Admission requirement data
- Academic level : Undergraduate (UG)
- Major subject : High School Certificate
- Ielts : 6.0
- Toefl : 74
- Pte : 52
- Note: IELTS 6.0 overall with no sub-score below 6.0. TOEFL iBT 74 overall with no component less than 18. PTE 52 overall with no component less than 52. Some courses have higher English requirements. International students apply directly to JCU, not through QTAC [citation:6].
Admission requirement data
- Academic level : Postgraduate (PG)
- Major subject : Relevant discipline for specific programs
- Ielts : 6.5
- Toefl : 86
- Pte : 58
- Note: Academic entry requirements vary by program. English language requirements are program-specific. For competitive courses like Medicine and Dentistry, higher academic standards apply [citation:1][citation:6].
Frequently Asked Questions
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