Central Queensland University (CRICOS provider code 00219C) is a government CRICOS-registered provider offering 105 active courses to international students. As a public university with multiple campuses across Queensland and one in South Australia, CQU delivers a wide range of programs from Certificate III to Doctoral Degree. With a CRICOS-registered capacity of 10,165 students, Central Queensland University is a popular choice for international students seeking quality education in regional and metropolitan Australia. This profile provides essential information for prospective students, including available course levels, fields of education, delivery locations, and visa requirements. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability for your study planning.
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Central Queensland University (CQU) is a government-owned public university established to provide higher education and vocational training. As a CRICOS-registered provider (code 00219C), CQU is authorised to enrol international students in its 105 active courses. The university's main campus is in North Rockhampton, Queensland, with additional delivery locations in Brisbane, Mackay, Bundaberg, Cairns, Gladstone, and even Wayville in South Australia. CQU offers a diverse range of study levels, from vocational certificates to doctoral degrees, across multiple fields including Management and Commerce, Information Technology, Health, and Creative Arts. With over 10,000 registered student places, CQU plays a significant role in Australia's international education sector. Students benefit from the ESOS Act protections that apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring their rights are safeguarded. For further context, Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students.
In the CRICOS context, 'Government' means that Central Queensland University is a public institution established and funded by the Australian Government or a state/territory government. This category includes public universities, TAFE institutes, and government schools. As a government provider, CQU adheres to strict quality standards set by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and the Australian Government. Government universities are typically larger, offer a broader range of courses, and have stronger research capabilities compared to private providers. For international students, studying at a government university often provides greater assurance of quality and recognition of qualifications worldwide. It also means that CQU is subject to public accountability and must comply with the ESOS Act and the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students.
Central Queensland University delivers courses across multiple cities and suburbs in Queensland and South Australia. Each location offers access to campus facilities, libraries, student support services, and local amenities. Here are the delivery locations grouped by city:
Brisbane, as Queensland's capital, offers a vibrant city lifestyle with a large international student community. Cairns is a tropical gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, popular for its relaxed atmosphere. Rockhampton is a regional centre known for its affordable cost of living. Typical rental costs vary: in Brisbane, expect $200-$350 per week for a shared room; in regional cities like Rockhampton, $150-$250 per week. Public transport is available in all locations, with Brisbane having extensive bus and train networks.
Central Queensland University offers a comprehensive range of course levels on the CRICOS register, catering to different academic and career goals. Here's a breakdown of the available levels:
With 105 active courses, CQU provides flexible study options for international students at every level.
Central Queensland University offers courses across eight broad fields of education as per the Australian Standard Classification of Education (ASCED). These fields are:
These diverse fields allow students to pursue their interests and career aspirations in a supportive learning environment.
To study at Central Queensland University, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating sufficient English language proficiency, and having adequate financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs, and travel. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. For dependents, a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) may be required. It's important to note that visa outcomes are never guaranteed, and we recommend consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. For more details, refer to our comprehensive student visa guide: Student Visa Subclass 500 Guide.
Follow these three steps to apply for a course at Central Queensland University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to find courses offered by CQU that match your study level, field, and preferred location. HeadStart Academy provides free tools to filter by course level, field, and city.
2. Apply directly to Central Queensland University: Visit the CQU website (www.cqu.edu.au) or contact their international admissions team. Check entry requirements including academic qualifications and English language test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL). Submit your application with supporting documents and meet application deadlines.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, CQU will issue a CoE. Use this document to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, financial evidence, and a genuine intention to study.
Always verify a provider's CRICOS registration on the official register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au. Central Queensland University's CRICOS code is 00219C. Registration status may change, so check before applying. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. We are a free resource with no referral fees, and every listed provider is CRICOS-registered. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refunds and student support services. With 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses available, you have many options – CQU is just one of them.
Choosing to study at Central Queensland University depends on your academic goals, preferred location, and budget. If you value a public university with a broad range of courses - from trade certificates to doctorates - and want the flexibility of studying in multiple cities including regional areas with lower living costs, CQU is a strong option. The university's government status ensures quality assurance under TEQSA. However, if you seek a specialised private college in a specific field, you may explore other providers. Consider factors like campus facilities (e.g., libraries, labs), student support for international students, and proximity to industries for work opportunities. Brisbane's campus offers urban access, while Rockhampton provides a quieter lifestyle. The cost of living in regional Queensland is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent for shared accommodation around $150-$250.
Ready to start your journey at Central Queensland University? Explore courses, check entry requirements, and apply today. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C) is a Government provider in North Rockhampton, QLD with 105 currently non-expired CRICOS courses [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Example course from the register: Bachelor of Accounting (CRICOS 003386G) is listed at 156 weeks with tuition A$105,120 and estimated total A$105,120 [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Important: This page is general information only and not migration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) evidence requirements and current financial settings, verify directly with the Department of Home Affairs [checked 2026-08-21].