Charles Darwin University (CDU) 2026: Top Courses, Fees, Scholarships & Benefits of Studying in Darwin
Study smarter, dream bigger – with world-class education, generous scholarships, and clear PR pathways at one of Australia’s fastest-growing universities.
Choosing the right university is one of the most important steps for international students planning to study in Australia. It’s not just about academics – it’s about career opportunities, visa outcomes, affordability, and lifestyle.
Among Australia’s regional universities, Charles Darwin University (CDU) stands out for its exceptional graduate outcomes, practical learning approach, and strong migration advantages.
At Aussizz Group, our experienced education counsellors help students find the right CDU program, apply for scholarships, and manage every step of the Subclass 500 Student Visa – ensuring your journey from application to arrival is seamless and successful.
It ranks 76th globally in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024 – proving its growing reputation among the world’s best universities under 50 years old.
Key Highlights at a Glance
CDU offers a unique combination of quality education, affordability, and post-study opportunities that make it a top choice for international students.
Category
Details
Graduate Employability & Salary
81% of undergraduates employed full-time within 4 months; average starting salary AUD 87,200 – above the national average.
Campuses Across Regions
Study in Darwin, Sydney, or Alice Springs – multicultural, safe, and student-friendly. Darwin offers regional migration benefits.
World-Class Research
Over 30 CDU academics rank in the Top 2% globally (Stanford University & Elsevier 2023).
Personalised Learning Experience
Small classes and mentoring provide individual academic support and inclusive learning.
Affordable Tuition & Scholarships
Tuition from AUD 29,800 (Arts) and AUD 31,000 (Business); scholarships cover up to 50% of tuition fees.
Top Courses for International Students (2026 Intakes)
CDU offers programs aligned with global career trends and Australian migration opportunities. Below are some of the most popular and high-demand courses for international students:
1. Nursing & Health Sciences
Bachelor of Nursing – AUD 38,720 per year
Master of Nursing Practice – AUD 40,416 per year
Bachelor of Health Science – AUD 35,584 per year PR Pathway: Registered Nurse (ANZSCO 2544)
2. Occupational Therapy & Allied Health
Master of Occupational Therapy – AUD 34,736 per year
Master of Speech Pathology – AUD 34,736 per year PR Pathway: Occupational Therapist / Speech Pathologist
3. Information Technology & Cyber Security
Bachelor of IT – AUD 34,856 per year
Master of IT (Cyber Security) – AUD 36,440 per year
Master of Data Science – AUD 36,440 per year PR Pathway: Software Engineer, ICT Business Analyst
4. Business, Accounting & Management
Bachelor of Business – AUD 31,208 per year
Master of Professional Accounting – AUD 38,192 per year
Master of Project Management – AUD 38,192 per year PR Pathway: Accountant, Business Analyst, Project Manager
5. Engineering & Technology
Bachelor of Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical) – AUD 39,392 per year
Master of Engineering – AUD 41,552 per year PR Pathway: Civil, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineer
6. Teaching & Education
Bachelor of Education (Primary/Secondary) – AUD 31,432 per year
Master of Teaching (Early Childhood/Primary/Secondary) – AUD 32,760 per year PR Pathway: School Teacher (ANZSCO 2412) Nationally accredited with placements via the NT Department of Education.
7. Social Work & Community Services
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) – AUD 36,480 per year PR Pathway: Social Worker (ANZSCO 2725)
For students who need to improve their English before beginning a degree, CDU’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program is now available at the Darwin Danala campus from Semester 1, 2026. This course helps students strengthen their academic English and transition smoothly into university study.
CDU rewards academic excellence with a variety of international scholarships that recognise students’ achievements and leadership potential.
Scholarship
Value
Eligible Students
Application Details
VCIHAS
50% tuition
UG & PG (95%+)
600-word statement; closes 12 Jan 2026; GPA ≥ 5.3
Global Merit
30%
TAFE, UG, PG, HDR
Automatic assessment
Bachelor of Nursing
Up to 20%
New Nursing students
Automatic consideration
Dili International School
CDU covers tuition balance + housing
DIS graduates
3 students per year; statement required
CDUIC East Asia
30% (first year)
East Asia students
Interview required
CDUIC Global (All Regions)
15–30% (first year)
Students from other regions
Interview with regional representative
Career & PR Pathways
CDU degrees are designed to improve employability while aligning with Australia’s skilled migration requirements. Graduates benefit from:
4–6 years of post-study work rights (depending on course and location)
Regional migration bonus points for Darwin graduates
PR-eligible qualifications in Nursing, Teaching, IT, Engineering, and Allied Health
Dedicated career support and internship opportunities through CDU Careers Centre
Example: A Nursing or Teaching graduate from Darwin gains regional points and meets Australia’s skill shortage demand – fast-tracking permanent residency.
Conclusion: Build Your Future with CDU and Aussizz Group
With globally recognised degrees, affordable tuition, and regional migration advantages, Charles Darwin University offers an ideal balance of quality and opportunity.
At Aussizz Group, we make your journey easier – from course selection and scholarships to visa lodgement (Subclass 500) and post-study migration planning (485 & PR).
Start your Australian journey today.
Contact Aussizz Group for personalised counselling and discover how CDU can help shape your future in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What makes CDU unique?
CDU offers smaller classes, affordable tuition, and regional migration benefits. It ranks among the Top 100 Young Universities worldwide (THE 2024) with excellent graduate outcomes.
Q2. What are the regional benefits of studying in Darwin?
Darwin’s regional classification provides migration bonus points and up to six years of post-study work rights for eligible graduates.
Q3. Does CDU offer English pathway programs?
Yes. CDU’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program at the Darwin Danala Campus helps students meet English entry requirements.
Q4. What are the top PR-eligible courses at CDU?
Nursing, Teaching, IT, Engineering, Occupational Therapy, and Social Work.
Q5. Are scholarships available for international students in 2026?
Yes. CDU offers a variety of scholarships, including the VCIHAS (50%), Global Merit (30%), and Bachelor of Nursing Scholarship (20%).
Q6. How can Aussizz Group help with my CDU application?
We assist with course and scholarship selection, prepare your Genuine Student (GS) statement, lodge your Student Visa (Subclass 500), and provide post-study PR guidance.
AUS
Australia
IND
India
UAE
UAE
CA
Canada
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Srilanka
