James Cook University

James Cook University is a university in Townsville, QLD. International students should budget around US$32,700 a year in total, covering roughly US$21,200 in tuition and US$11,500 in living costs. The fee schedule below breaks that down across 2 published items. Entry requirements are listed by level, with the English score each one needs. It is one of 30 institutions we list in Australia.

1 James Cook Dr, Douglas QLD 4814, Australia

Tuition: US$21,200/yr
Living: US$11,500/yr
Total: US$32,700/yr
Type: University
Location: Townsville, QLD

Why students choose James Cook University

JCU is the second-oldest university in Queensland
Top 2% of universities worldwide
Rated five stars for staff-to-student ratio, typically one tutor to a maximum of 16 students in specialist subjects
#1 in Australia for graduate salaries, averaging AUD 63,800 (Good Universities Guide 2025)
More than 400 degree programmes across fields with strong labour demand
JCU graduates can apply for a post-study work visa of two to four years

James Cook University fees for international students

As published by the institution. Confirm current fees directly before paying a deposit.

Fee schedule for James Cook University
Item	Amount
AUD 31,000–39,000/year
AUD 35,000–42,000/year

James Cook University entry requirements

Set by the institution and grouped by level. English scores are minimums.

Every course sets its own academic, English and other requirements. The following are the general ones.

Undergraduate

High school graduate with a GPA of at least 7.0
IELTS 6.0–6.5 with no component below 6.0 depending on subject, or an equivalent English certificate

Postgraduate

A bachelor's degree
IELTS 6.5 with no component below 6.0, or another recognised English certificate

Scholarships at James Cook University

JCU International Excellence Scholarship: 25% of tuition

Frequently asked

How much does it cost to study at James Cook University?

Budget roughly US$32,700 a year in total — about US$21,200 in tuition and US$11,500 in living costs. Fees vary by programme; the schedule on this page lists what the institution publishes.

What are the entry requirements for James Cook University?

Requirements are set by level and listed in full on this page. Every course sets its own academic, English and other requirements. The following are the general ones.

Where is James Cook University?

James Cook University is in Townsville, QLD, at 1 James Cook Dr, Douglas QLD 4814, Australia.

Can international students work while studying at James Cook University?

Work rights are set nationally, not by the institution. In Australia the current allowance is 48 hours per fortnight during term, and the post-study route is temporary graduate visa (subclass 485).