SAMPLE SOP

SAMPLE

1. Statement of Purpose – Accounting and Management

It is difficult to understate the importance of Accounting in companies and the business world as a whole. It is because of my recognition of the importance of accounting that I have decided to seek further education and a career in this field. After careful consideration, it has become clear to me that developing a successful career in accounting in the modern business environment requires advanced training in accounting and related subjects. I am motivated to study in your master’s program in Accounting and Management by an awareness of the ever-changing reality of the business environment and the need to upgrade my own expertise and professional abilities. I am a native of Nepal, an Asian island with a trade-oriented economy that is increasingly focused exporting to markets in Europe and North America. Many outstanding scholars from my country have studied abroad to hone their skills with foreign teachers and classmates, and this has been instrumental to the progress of my country’s economy. I hope to follow suit, broadening my international perspective, improving my language skills, and refining my knowledge of accounting.

I majored in the Department of Mathematics at National Good University, one of the top ten universities in all of [country]. I chose this major due to my belief that math is the foundation of academic and professional development. My department offered us comprehensive training in diverse fields such as computer science, mathematics and social sciences. With my extensive foundation in mathematics, I am convinced that I can cope well with the demands of your master’s program. I also took elective management classes, including Management and Economics, while in the university. My academic experiences impressed upon me the importance of accounting in the modern business world, as well as the crucial role played by management in the ultimate direction and success of a company. With my growing interest in the business world, my performance in the university steadily improved over my four years of study. As my interest in these areas developed, it became clear that the pursuit of postgraduate education in these areas, ideally in the USA, is the logical next step in my overall development.

 In addition to my work in the classroom, I was an active member of campus. I have joined several organizations since senior high school, in which I acquired a unique blend of experiences. Perhaps the most memorable and valuable of all was my participation in the Department of Mathematics’ Student Association. I was in the activity section, which organized many activities for the whole Department. I organized the Department’s large-scale end-of-year party, planning details of the event with my partners and ensuring steady progress toward our goals. During the process of conducting these tasks, conflicts inevitably arose. I worked hard, however, to coordinate with other members of the group and developed contingency plans to address problems as they arose. This experience proved to be as rewarding as it was challenging, and I expect that the leadership experience I acquired will be very useful when pursuing further studies.

Given the importance of globalization in the management and development of companies, an education that does not fully address the international and multicultural realities of the modern business world is incomplete. I have therefore decided to pursue my degree overseas, as the expertise and facilities offered in my country’s educational institutions are limited and thus unable to match the diversity and multiculturalism available in the US. I look forward to meeting and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. The ability to listen and learn from others is crucial for professionals in all industries. Your university, with its mix of people from different backgrounds, is a true microcosm of the international business world and thus the ideal place in which to pursue a business-based education.

As the above shows, I am highly motivated and ambitious in pursuing my master’s degree in the Australia. By studying in your master’s program, I hope to extend my vision and improve my English proficiency. After completion of your master’s program, I plan to return to [my country] and work for one of the leading multinational accounting/finance firms as an accounting professional capable of dealing with a broad range of people, companies, and financial situations. Your program in Accounting and Management will enable me to achieve the goals I have set for myself. I expect to have a long career in this field and benefit a wide range of companies. In this way, I hope to add to the general development of my country’s economy and become a leading professional in my field.

SAMPLE 2

SOP FOR MPA FOR AUSTRALIA

            One of the most valuable lessons that I have learnt from life is to make the best of what I have. I believe this is one of the most important rules than can help one survive in a developing country like Nepal. A lot is written and said about Nepal these days; that it is begging for good governance; is rife with mismanaged assets; is plagued by rampant corruption – the problems listed are endless. The one problem that has always irked me lies in the fact that the majority of the privileged class – and I call it “privileged” in as much, as it can afford a decent education – tends to get educated “for the sake of getting educated”: they lack aims and goals, and simply hope to find the same along the way.
It was during the start of my 10+2 that I truly realized the importance of setting goals in life. I believe that up until that time, I was the clichéd “underachiever”; however a good result in my 10+2 helped me change that notion, and put it to rest for good. Today my aim is to bring a positive change in my country and help it rise amongst other nations. I believe that the key to excellence lies in the maximization of one’s potential. I have opted for your postgraduate course in International Business because it is the precise area where I can excel and maximize my own potential.
I believe that my will to excel has been generated by the social conditions in Nepal; seeing the plight of others who are surrounded by financial distress makes one truly and humbly realise how wealthy are those who have the fortune of being able to afford an education. It is this very realisation that has always compelled me to make the most of my shot at getting educated, and now that this feeling has fully entrenched itself within my soul, I am determined to make it count not just for my sake, but also for the sake of my fellow countrymen to whom I owe as much as I owe to myself. 
I completed my Bachelors in Business Administration as an student of the Trivuwan University. This is a very rigorous course that becomes especially so for external students since they lack access to a wider range of materials. Through sheer hard work, dogged determination and continuous motivation by my teachers, I finished as one of only five students to get an upper second class honours. For a student who used to be continuously reminded that he was underachieving, this was a feat to take a lot of pride in. Yet, I feel that I am incomplete without taking another proverbial leap into the academic vortex. 


Over the years, I have had opportunities to further my interest in business management and operations. I have interned as an assistant accountant in my summer break with Digi Computers (Exporters).This work experience was my first step in entering practicalities of my career. During the course of my internship, I worked with senior accountants, which enlightened me with the practical implications of accounting. I have also served as Teacher’s Assistant during my undergraduate program for two consecutive years. I marked assignments and conducted frequent tutorials. I believe this experience contributed immensely in strengthening my grip over my subjects and in learning how to apply them. I can also stake a claim that I deal well with people in general; this was proved by the fact that I was elected as Head of the Student Council for my university in 2010-11.
My decision to select University of Technology Sydney for its Master of Professional Accounting program was purely based on firsthand research. I undertook thorough research so as to select the best possible option for a bright career. Having an internationally acceptable undergraduate degree and access to all the best educationalists, UTS appealed the most to me. The said program is being offered by various universities across the globe, each offering its own unique course composition. Canadian universities like Brock University offered a similar program but it lacked the industry relevance, while the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom had a program which was based more on theory. Similar programs are being offered by various universities in Pakistan, but they lack the embryonic nature of accounting. No doubt that the professional programs in Pakistan do meet the international calibre but the accounting bodies in Pakistan lack the active participation and this gap of collaboration is clearly depicted in the offerings of the universities. With the international harmonization in accounting standards, I feel that the programs in Pakistan are slightly outmoded. The MPA at UTS not only provides in-depth knowledge of accounting but also encompasses the legal environment that concerns the field of accounting. 
Australia has a diverse-multi cultural environment. The young and energetic Australian society welcomes international students. Based on my search over the internet and correspondence with acquaintances, the safe environment, religious freedom and sound economic conditions all speak about Australia for themselves. Studying in Sydney will make this experience more delightful. The weather won’t be unforgiving, Sydney is a popular tourist destinations which means it always will have something to offer throughout the year. Coming to the practical aspects, studying the field of accounting in the economic hub of Australia means that I will be lectured by the best industry practitioners. UTS offers industry realistic teaching methods. Being a leader in research, UTS provides access to world class facilities. Apart from that it has excellent student support which is not limited to education provision only. The ideal location of UTS in Central Business District adds to it being the top choice.
Getting equipped with a Master’s degree in Professional Accounting will open doors of opportunities for me to grow as an individual and to serve my country. I aspire to become a valued player in the marketplace, empowered with the professional acumen required to make critical business decisions. Master in Professional Accounting will provide me with countless opportunities for industry experience, business networking and a sound knowledge to start a prospering career. It will help stimulate my entrepreneurial vision and curiosity together with enhancing my business knowledge. I can claim with conviction that my innovation and analytical approach will encourage me to understand new and current accounting issues.
Upon completion, I intend to continue the legacy of growth of my family business. I strongly believe that after acquiring this degree there is enough aptitude for me to get in the family business and manage my area of specialization i.e. accounts. In the long run, I intend to offer consultancy services at affordable rates so as to help all classes of businessmen. I believe I am much closer to this market since I have been running my own business, dealing in exports of finished products. For this very reason, I am more appreciative of the role prospective graduates can play in helping these businesses understand the essence and importance of organization. This degree will serve as the core of my arsenal if I am to venture into relatively unexplored terrain and maximise my potential. 
In my absence, the entire business will be managed by my brother (Business Partner). I plan to return and re-join the business as soon as I complete my degree, whereupon I shall endeavour to put my learning into practice. My studies will be fully funded from the loan facility that has been availed against our savings (Fixed Deposit), while additionally; my brother has also undertaken to assist me in funding. 
It is an admitted fact that I withdrew my previous visa application after a long and arduous visa processing period that spanned for more than 8 months without any result or decision. This is due to the fact that I am eligible under the new Streamline Visa Processing and I feel that my application will be dealt with more efficiently and expeditiously via this new system. This initiative taken by the Australian Government is a very beneficial scheme for genuine prospective students like me and will expedite visa processing so that such students may be able to attend their courses on time.
I feel that Australia and specifically the University of Technology Sydney will be a great place to study and provide me with a chance to broaden my horizons. I sincerely hope that I will be bestowed a chance to study in Australia.

POLAND A SUPERB DESTINATION FOR STUDY

WHY TO STUDY IN POLAND?

Polish universities and colleges are systematically expanding their offer, modernize teaching programs and develop new areas of academic research. Poland, the popular international students destination abroad is providing internationally recognized degrees at affordable costs. In order to attract more international students, Polish Universities are now using English as the medium of instruction specially in areas like management, engineering, medical, fashion and politcal sciences.

ADMISSION IN POLAND

Admission requirements for Poland may vary from one university to another. But, in general foreign applicants seeking admission to the universities of Poland must meet the requirements required by Polish law and the Universities regulations. Your qualification must be eqivalent to the Polish certificates (certificate of secondary education, Bachelors or Masters degrees). For getting admitted in Polish universities a student must submit an application for admission, an application form including curriculum vitae and a completed questionnaire, a medical certificate confirming the applicants physical condition is fit and fine for studying in a given major, proofs of completion of a preparatory course as designated by the Ministry of Education or confirmation from course provider or the university that the applicants background and Polish language ability are sufficient to study in Poland. Student who do not speak polish must attend the polish language class. Applicants must submit the latest health certificate. For preparatory courses a student must present a General Certificate of Education A- Level or a photocopy. Applicants for postgraduate studies should enclose M. A. (M. Sc.) degree certificate or a photocopy.

HOW TO OBTAIN POLISH VISA

Process to get Polish Student Visa Students must be granted a Polish visa in order to enter and stay in Poland legally. Visa approval to access Poland gives right of stay on the territory of the Republic of Poland only. Students intending to study in Polish University needs documents to be granted the polish student visa as given below.

DOCUMENTATION

Passport (must be valid for 3 months) One passport-size photo. Completed application form. Evidence of immigration status in country of residence, endorsed in current or previous passport (if applicable). Fee, payable by cash/postal order. Accommodation booking or invitation from friends or family in Poland. An official letter from a college or university. Transport documentation (airplane ticket)

Applications submitted without these requirements will not be considered by the Consular offices and will be returned to the applicant. Holders of Polish visa are still subject to immigration control at the Polish border and are not guaranteed entry. All visitors must possess sufficient funds to cover the cost of their stay.

COST FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENT (LIVING)

Before going on to living cost for students in Poland, lets have some introduction to Polish Currency. Polish money (PLN) is counted in złoty (zł) and grosz (gr) 100 groszy = 1 złoty. The coins are issued in 1gr, 2gr, 5gr, 10gr, 20gr, 50gr, 1zł, 2zł and 5zł. The bank notes are issued in 10zł, 20zł, 50zł, 100zł, and 200 zł. For international students - Daily necessities like food and clothing are still relatively inexpensive by western standards, however prices depend on the country of origin of the goods. Generally products made in Poland are less expensive than goods imported from the West. Foreign students should remember that if they want to travel, buy fresh fruit and vegetables in the winter, make phone calls abroad and lead an active social life they will spend a few hundred PLN per month (excluding cost of accommodation). To give you an idea of the cost of living in Poland, here is an example: Accommodation in a Student House 485 PLN per month Private accommodation (living with Polish family) 200-500 PLN per month Dinner in a student refectory 5-10 PLN Dinner outside Campus 10-20 PLN Breakfast and supper (if self-catering) 5-10 PLN It is very expensive to have dinner in a Hotel outside but having at cafe or food court may cost less. The approximate prices of some items are listed below: milk 1.80 PLN/liter chicken 8-10 PLN/kg bread 2 PLN/kg eggs 0.3 - 0.4 PLN/each butter 2 - 3 PLN/200g rice 3-4 PLN / 0.5 kg cheese 11 - 20 PLN/kg potato 1 PLN /kg meat 8 - 20 PLN/kg fruits 3 - 15 PLN /kg Food prices may differ from one store to another as well as from the season. Fruit and vegetables are cheaper in the summer than in the winter. We suggest that you check which store in your area offers the most reasonable prices. Most grocery stores are open 8.00 am- 6.00 p.m. Monday to Friday. On Saturday they close early afternoon. Some stores are open on Sundays. Why to choose Poland for Higher education? There are at least five good following reasons why you should choose Poland as a country to study: A very good quality of studies for low price , Poland is a dynamically developing member state of European Union with young society, strong economy and good prospects for the future, Study programs provided in English language, International students can apply for legal work during studies Poland is beautiful, safe and friendly country to live, study and work what is the language of instruction (English or Polish)? Study programs offered by Polish Universities cooperating with Polish Council are of highest standards of quality and all are delivered in English language. Lectures are given by top reputed lecturers in full accordance with study programs proposed to candidates. However, at least strong basics of local (Polish) language are required for living and working in Poland. All institutes of higher education working closely with Polish Council provide intensive courses of Polish as a foreign language. Tuition fees for Higher studies in Poland? Tuition fee for studies in Poland is relatively low and very reasonable when compared to Canada, US, Australia or European countries like France, Germany, UK, Ireland or Scandinavian countries. Diplomas and degrees are well recognized in more than 50 countries, including Australia, Canada, US, UK, Sweden, as well as all member countries of European Union. The cost of Tuition Fee per year ranges from 2500 Euro up to 9000 Euro (for MD courses) per year depending on the course selection. Living expenses in Poland (Per month)? Living expenses in Poland are much lower than in most EU countries. The amount of 250-500 Euro should cover the monthly costs of accommodation, food and transport. However, there are examples when international students manage to live on much tighter budget, all depends on standards of living. Is Poland is safe for International Students? Poland is a very safe and friendly country to live, study and work. According to statistics, it's one of the safest countries within the EU. Poles are known for their hospitality, which is reflected in official regulations governing the rights of foreigners to study and live in Poland. Everybody is allowed to cross the Polish border, regardless of skin color, religious faith or social and political views. Poland is a member of the European Union, NATO and OECD. In 2008 Poland became a member of Schengen pact. For students studying in Poland and holding stay permit, it means they can move freely within 26 EU member state countries, without need for any additional visa. This free movement excludes countries like UK, North Ireland, Finland and Sweden. Is work is allowed for International Student? International students that study on daily basis can legally work in Poland. There are no limitations in terms of maximum number of working hours allowed to students per week. However international students must not by any chance neglect their studies. Depending on skills, position, nature and place of work, students can earn from 2,5 to 8 Euros per hour. All Polish Council partners, including Universities and career offices will assist the graduates to seek right placement as per their education qualifications. What is the cost of Health Insurance? For safety reasons and in order to legalize their stay in Poland, all international students have to get health insurance policy. It is highly recommended to purchase insurance policy in Polish National Health Fund (NFZ). The monthly cost of this policy amounts to equivalent of 8 Euro. Student has also an alternative of signing policy agreement with other insurers available on the market. What is the cost of accommodation per month? International student can expect rent ranging from 80 to 200 Euro per month. There are many possibilities, including renting a room, sharing an apartment or renting an own flat. Most Universities provide dormitories. Are any scholarships available? There is a good number of Polish, EU and University scholarships that are available for international students.  Am I allowed to travel to other EU countries during holidays? Yes, indeed. You are allowed to go to other EU member states for your holidays, but only on basis of Schengen visa or Temporary Residence Card. Requirements for student visa If you would like to study in Poland, one has to meet certain requirements. They are not more complicated than those in your own country.  First of all you need to complete higher secondary level of education in your country. Then only you will be able to study in Poland. For Post graduate you need to complete bachelor degree equivalent to Polish standard. Secondly you need to have a knowledge of Polish Language. Student Visa A filled-in visa application to apply for a student visa to Poland. The procedures may vary depending on the country you come from. However, some of the requirements remain the same for all the countries and they include: Valid passport Official letter of acceptance to a school in Poland A short CV Your school certificates and diplomas Evidence of proficiency in the language in which you wish to study Confirmation of having the funds for studying and living in Poland Health insurance A photo LEGALIZE PERMIT FOR YOU TO STAY IN POLAND Another condition you need to fulfill to be able to study in Poland is to legalize your stay in the territory of the Republic of Poland. If you are a European Union (EU) citizen and you would like to stay longer than three months in Poland, you need to register your stay in the country. If you are a non-EU citizen, you need to obtain a visa at a Polish consulate in your home country before your arrival in Poland. Once in Poland, in order to prolong your stay, you need to apply for a Temporary Stay Card –  HEALTH INSURANCE Moreover, if you decide to study in Poland, you need to get a doctor’s certificate confirming that you can freely undertake study in the field of your choice. Additionally, you need to be insured during your total stay in Poland. The health service in Poland is not free to public and therefore you should hold an insurance policy in the event of an illness or an accident.  Language profilicacy You do not have to be fluent in Polish in order to begin studies in Poland. The knowledge of English, French or German suffices. In order to apply for a given course, you will need to present a document confirming your knowledge of a foreign language at a sufficient level to participate in the classes. According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, you would have to have one of the following certificates: FCE, CAE or CPE for studies in English, DEFL B2 for studies in French or Zertificat Deutsch Plus 3 for German studies. Some Universities do not require certificates as they conduct their own language tests as part of their admission procedure.

Australian University Rankings

2013 THE Times Higher Education World University Reputation Rankings - Australian University Rankings

(added 5th March 2013)

Australia now has six universities in the Times Higher Education (THE) World Reputation Rankings 2013 top 100, up from four in 2012 with Monash University and UNSW joining the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, Sydney University, and the University of Queensland.

Only the US and the UK have more universities in the top 100 of the THE World Reputation Rankings now that Australia has moved ahead of Japan, Germany, and the Netherlands with its two new entrants.

The 'Reputation Rankings' system is based on the the results of over 16,000 responses from senior academics in 150 countries. It began in 2011 so that Times Higher Education couild release two world university rankings each year rather than the single rankings report released annually by its competitors. The THE 'Reputation Rankings' joins its 'Academic Rankings' which are released around the start of October each year but they have been criticised for their obvious anglo bias in asking mainly western educated and socialised academics working at western universities which universities they consider to be the best in the world.

Key Features:

• Two new entrants in the top 100 (UNSW and Monash) making a total of 6
• University of Melbourne moves from 43 to 39
• Australian National University moves from 44 to 42

University 2013 Ranking 2012 Ranking University of Melbourne 39 43 Australian National University 42 (tied) 44 (tied) University of Sydney 49 50 University of Queensland 71-80 71-80 University of New South Wales 81-90 - Monash University 91-100 -

2012 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) Rankings

University 2012 Rank 2010 Rank Proportion of Excellence Strength Weakness Breadth Melbourne 1 2 85.45% 18.8 0 22 Sydney 2 5 84.54% 18.6 0 22 ANU 3 1 80% 15.2 0 19 UQ 3 3 80% 17.6 0 22 UNSW 4 4 75.24% 15.8 0 21 Monash 5 6 68% 13.6 0 20 UWA 6 7 47.62% 10 0 21 Adelaide 7 8 46.36% 10.2 2.4 22 Macquarie 8 10 35% 7 1.6 20 Wollongong 9 11 32.22% 5.8 2.4 18 SCU 10 25 31.11% 2.8 4.2 9 Tasmania 11 13 26.67% 5.6 5.6 21 QUT 12 9 26.32% 5 0.8 19 UTS 13 20 25.56% 4.6 0 18 Newcastle 13 16 25.56% 4.6 3.4 18 UniSA 14 19 22.67% 3.4 1.6 15 Swinburne 15 18 21.67% 2.6 3.6 12 Griffith 16 12 20% 4 2.4 20 RMIT 16 21 20% 3.2 2.4 16 Deakin 17 17 18.95% 3.6 4 19 JCU 18 14 17.89% 3.4 6.6 19 UWS 19 23 16% 3.2 5 20 La Trobe 20 15 15.56% 2.8 2.4 18 CQU 21 28 15.38% 2 8.6 13 CDU 22 24 14.55% 1.6 4.2 11 Murdoch 23 18 14.44% 2.6 4.8 18 Bond 24 28 8.89% 0.8 6 9 USC 24 28 8.89% 0.8 6.4 9 CSU 25 28 5.33% 0.8 9.4 15 Curtin 26 22 5% 1 4.8 20 UNE 27 27 4.71% 0.8 4.6 17 Flinders 28 28 3.81% 0.8 6 21 USQ 29 25 0% 0 10.2 15 Victoria 29 28 0% 0 6.8 13 Canberra 29 26 0% 0 7 13 ECU 29 28 0% 0 8.8 13 Ballarat 29 28 0% 0 8.4 11 ACU 29 28 0% 0 4.8 9 Notre Dame 29 28 0% 0 2.8 3

KEY:

Proportion of excellence.This is a percentage figure representing the number of four and five scores divided by the number of fields which show research activity. Five scores are given a weighting.

Strength.The total number of four and five scores. A score of four represents "above world standard" and a score of five represents "well above world standard".

Weakness.The total number of one and two scores. A score of two represents "below world standard" and a score of one represents "well below world standard".

Breadth.This is the total number of fields which show research activity up to a maximum of 22.

2012-2013 THE Times Higher Education World University Rankings - Australian University Rankings

(added 4th October 2012)

Australia has two new entrants in the top 100 and a new entrant in the top 200 of the THE Times Higher Education World University Rankings. UNSW records a massive increase in ranking to move into the top 100 at position 85 compared with last year's 173. Monash loses its 5th place in the Australian rankings to UNSW but records an improved ranking of 19 places to just sneak into the top 100 at position 99. Adelaide University moves into 176 becoming the 8th Australian university in the top 200. Melbourne University records an impressive 9 point increase in ranking at the highly competitive top end, moving from last year's 37 to 28 and putting some distance between itself and the 2nd highest ranked Australian university ANU.

Key Features:

• Two new entrants in the top 100 (UNSW and Monash) making a total of 6
• University of Melbourne moves from 43 to 39
• Australian National University moves from 44 to 42
• Two new entrants in the top 100 (UNSW and Monash) making a total of 6
• One new entrant in the top 200 (Adelaide) making a total of 8
• UNSW records a remarkable improvement from last year's 173 as it moves into the top 100 at position 85 and replaces Monash at position 5 in the Australian rankings
• Melbourne University moves well ahead of ANU as Australia's number one ranked university with a 9 place improvement to 28
• Monash improves 19 places to move into the top 100 at number 99 but falls to 6th in the Australian rankings
• Adelaide jumps into the top 200 at position 176, becoming the 8th Australian university in the top 200 and overtakes UWA to secure position 7 of the Australian rankings
• Murdoch jumps from outside top 400 to inside the 301-350 range
• Four Australian universities drop out of the top 400 (Curtin, Griffith, La Trobe, Swinburne)
• Two new Australian universities enter the top 400 (Murdoch, University of Technology Sydney)
• Australia drops from 21 universities in the top 400 to 19 universities in the top 400

National Rank University World Rank 1 University of Melbourne 28 2 Australian National University 37 3 University of Sydney 62 4 University of Queensland 65 5 University of New South Wales 85 6 Monash University 99 7 University of Adelaide 176 8 University of Western Australia 190 9 Macquarie University 251-275 10 Queensland University of Technology 251-275 11 The University of Newcastle 276-300 12 Murdoch University 301-350 13 University of South Australia 301-350 14 University of Wollongong 301-350 15 Charles Darwin University 351-400 16 Deakin University 351-400 17 Flinders University 351-400 18 University of Tasmania 351-400 19 University of Technology Sydney 351-400

(Universities within the same rank range are listed alphabetically)

2012 QS World University Rankings - Australian university rankings.

Some good news for the Australian university rankings with the 2012 QS World University Rankings reporting a new entry from amongst the top Australian universities. The private Bond University has moved into the top 700 institutions at 380 in the world rankings after scoring impressively in a number of dimensions, mainly attributed to its smaller class size and the internationalised character of the staff and students. The ANU led the best Australian universities in the rankings with its strong research focus. All the Group of Eight universities scored well although there was some movement both up and down. The international rankings are now becoming much more competitive as more and more universities around the world start to focus their strategies, resources, and activities on obtaining the highest possible score across the different dimensions. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the years ahead.

World Rank University Academic Reputation Employer Reputation Citations Faculty Students International Faculty International Students Overall Score 24 ANU 99.7 82.5 64.3 79.6 100 96.3 87.6 36 Melbourne 99.8 100 74.9 46.8 68.9 92.3 83.2 39 Sydney 99.3 93.5 58.9 50.4 99.7 91.3 81.3 46 UQ 95.3 83.3 63.1 45.3 95.5 90.5 78.2 52 UNSW 95 95.1 52.8 39.8 98.8 97.6 76.6 61 Monash 95.4 96.5 41.6 33.6 77 94.5 72.2 79 UWA 77.8 70.9 70.1 39.9 99.3 81.7 70 102 Adelaide 73.8 69.5 54.8 41 86.9 92.6 65.3 233 Macquarie 47.4 71.2 28.2 13.5 98.5 98.2 44.7 246 RMIT 46.9 77.2 7.7 21.7 100 100 42.8 258 Curtin 41.5 65.1 12.6 27.3 100 99.8 41.5 264 Wollongong 29.5 73.4 26.5 35.7 99.5 82.8 41.1 268 Newcastle 47.9 39.5 28.7 18.4 92.2 68.8 41 281 QUT 44 65.6 20.1 21.9 85 59.8 40.2 284 UTS 41.6 69.3 12.7 21.8 93.4 88.6 40 293 UniSA 38.3 49.9 12.5 36.3 100 75.8 39.3 342 Flinders 27.7 24.8 17.9 67.1 13.8 63.9 34.8 357 UTas 27.7 27.4 24.7 38.3 51.9 87.8 33.8 362 JCU 21.7 23.4 44.2 30.4 93.8 50.4 33.5 368 Griffith 29.6 39.8 15.8 23.3 89.9 90.8 33 374 La Trobe 35.6 26.8 15.7 21.6 83.9 77.1 32.8 380 Bond 11.9 43.5 6.3 63.7 86 93.8 32.4 401-450 Deakin   37.4 17.3 14.9 72 81.7   401-450 Murdoch     20.9 26.6 87 53.9   451-500 Swinburne     22.1 12.8 69.3 99.9   601+ UWS

2012 ARWU SHJT Shanghai Jiao Tong University China Academic Ranking of World universities - Australian universities ranking:

Good news for the University of Western Australia (UWA) as it jumps to number 96 inside the top 100 and well up on last year's position in the top 150. This is the second year in a row that an Australian university has been promoted into the top 100 and this sends a clear message around the world regarding the quality of the top universities in Australia.

University* Aus Rank (World Rank) University of Melbourne 1 (57) Australian National University (ANU) 2 (64) University of Queensland 3 (90) University of Sydney 4 (93) University of Western Australia (UWA) 5 (96) Monash University 6-7 (101-150) University of New South Wales (UNSW) 6-7 (101-150) Macquarie University 8-9 (201-300) University of Adelaide 8-9 (201-300) Flinders University 10-16 (301-400) Griffith University 10-16 (301-400) James Cook University 10-16 (301-400) Swinburne University of Technology 10-16 (301-400) University of Newcastle 10-16 (301-400) University of Tasmania 10-16 (301-400) University of Wollongong 10-16 (301-400) Curtin University 17-19 (401-500) La Trobe University 17-19 (401-500) University of Technology, Sydney 17-19 (401-500)

*Institutions within the same rank range are listed alphabetically

2011-2012 THE Times Higher Education World University Rankings - Australian University National Rankings

(added 6th October 2011)

Seven Australian universities have been named among the world's top 200 higher education institutions in the latest Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The University of Melbourne leads the Australian contingent as the highest placed Australian facility, coming in at number 37 in the world rankings.

National Rank University World Rank 1 University of Melbourne 37 2 Australian National University 38 3 University of Sydney 58 4 University of Queensland 74 5 Monash University 117 6 University of New South Wales 173 7 University of Western Australia 189 8 University of Adelaide 201-225 9 Macquarie University 226-250 10 University of Wollongong 251-275 11 The University of Newcastle 276-300 12 Queensland University of Technology 276-300 13 Charles Darwin University 301-350 14 University of Tasmania 301-350 15 Curtin University 351-400 16 Deakin University 351-400 17 Flinders University 351-400 18 Griffith University 351-400 19 La Trobe University 351-400 20 University of South Australia 351-400 21 Swinburne University of Technology 351-400

(Universities within the same rank range are listed alphabetically)