FAQs for future ANU students regarding the Renew ANU proposed college restructure

01 Nov 2024

The Australian National University is a globally renowned institution known for its world-class research and education and is ranked 4th in Australia and 73rd in the world1. ANU produces the most employable graduates in Australia2. We have more subjects ranked in the world top 10 than any other Australian university and five disciplines ranked in the top 10 in the world3

To ensure we maintain our high standards of education and continue to best support our students, the University must restructure its colleges to remain financially sustainable in the evolving higher education sector. 

This restructure will not disband academic programs or impact the teaching quality or learning experience for students at ANU. 

1. THE World University Rankings 2024; 2. Times Higher Education Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24; 3. QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 

 

What are the benefits of the changes to future students?

ANU is changing so it can be in the best position to support students to thrive. This change is necessary to ensure the sustainability of ANU. The COVID pandemic, combined with changes in Australian Government policy and other macro-economic forces, created new financial headwinds that are unlikely to diminish, requiring urgent action. Furthermore, reshaping the University’s academic structure positions us to educate our students more effectively and efficiently.

Will the University still teach the same programs even if a college is disbanded?

The proposed academic restructure would only impact the college structure. No programs are being disbanded due to this process. Please check the website for specific programs and course information if you are unsure. Some programs may now be based in different colleges due to the restructure; however, this will not impact the teaching quality or learning experience for students at ANU.

Are there any changes to the admissions process for programs in the affected colleges and schools?

No. While the Renew ANU process includes a proposed change to the structure of colleges, the admissions processes for international and domestic students remain the same. Future students can rest assured that the Renew ANU process will not impact their applications.

Is ANU still welcoming international students?

Yes, very much so. International students are crucial to our vibrant cultural and intellectual life on our campus, and remain most welcome at our University. The Renew ANU process does not impact the ability of prospective international students to apply to study at ANU. We remain committed to providing the highest-quality education and learning experience for all of our students.

Does Renew ANU impact student visa applications for international students?

No. ANU will continue to issue the necessary enrolment documents for students to make visa applications, with no change occurring as a result of Renew ANU. As Australian Government policy changes from time to time, prospective international students are encouraged to check with the Department of Home Affairs for all visa matters.

Is the offer I received from ANU in 2025 still valid? Will I be contacted directly if my program is no longer available?

All offers made to future students remain valid, subject to any conditions in your offer letter. The Renew ANU process does not impact the admissions and offer process at ANU, nor does it result in current programs no longer being offered by the University. Prospective students are encouraged to call 1800 620 032 within Australia, or +61 2 6125 7257 outside Australia, should you have any questions about your offers. International education agents, kindly contact your ANU Regional Manager directly.

Will these changes impact my accommodation offer?

No. The Renew ANU process does not impact the accommodation offerings at the University, and therefore there will be no change to accommodation offers for students.

I received a scholarship from ANU. Does Renew ANU impact my scholarship in any way?

No. The Renew ANU process does not impact the current and future scholarship options at ANU, and all current and future scholarships will continue to be offered. If you have questions about your scholarship at ANU, please contact future.student@anu.edu.au or call 1800 620 032 within Australia, or +61 2 6125 7257 outside Australia.

Will my tuition fees remain the same for the duration of my degree?

While tuition fees vary from year to year, ANU is not considering increasing student tuition fees as a direct result of the Renew ANU process. The changing Australian Government policy landscape constrains the University’s ability to grow international student numbers for the foreseeable future. ANU is focused on controlling its costs, and living within our projected revenue, rather than changing student tuition fees.

If I am coming from an articulation arrangement from an overseas college, will it still be recognised?

Yes. The Renew ANU process does not impact articulation arrangements from overseas colleges, and such arrangements will continue to be recognised. Should a student who is part of these arrangements be affected by the changes in schools and colleges at ANU, they will be directly contacted. If you have any questions about articulation arrangements, please contact future.student@anu.edu.au or call 1800 620 032 within Australia, or +61 2 6125 7257 outside Australia.

How will these changes impact the University’s rankings?

The Renew ANU process is about securing the University’s financial future and ensuring that it continues to offer a high-level education to students, cementing its place as Australia’s only national university. During and after the Renew ANU process, ANU will continue to strive for excellence and increase its higher education rankings.

How do I contact ANU to discuss my situation directly?

Future and prospective students are encouraged to contact future.student@anu.edu.au or call 1800 620 032 within Australia, or +61 2 6125 7257 outside Australia, to discuss their specific circumstances. International education agents, please contact your ANU Regional Manager directly. Some answers may already be available on the Renew ANU microsite: https://www.anu.edu.au/news/all-news/faqs-renew-anu.