2026 Australian Universities Accepting Gaokao Scores: Complete List & Cutoffs

For Chinese students who have just received their 2026 Gaokao results, Australia presents the most established Gaokao-to-university pathway among English-speaking destinations. Seven out of eight Australian Group of Eight universities now accept Gaokao scores directly for undergraduate entry — the University of Melbourne being the sole exception. Here is what you need to know.

Which Australian Universities Accept Gaokao Scores?

As of 2026, the following Australian universities officially accept Gaokao scores for direct undergraduate admission:

1、University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney, QS #19): Accepts Gaokao scores of approximately 70%-75% for most programs. Business and engineering typically require 70%-75%, with law and medicine at 80%-85%. UNSW has the broadest Gaokao-accepted program range among Go8 members.

2、University of Sydney (QS #28): Accepts 65%-75% of Gaokao total. Business, engineering, and IT programs need 70%-75%, while humanities and social sciences accept 65%-70%. Sydney sets province-specific cutoffs.

3、Monash University (QS #31): The most flexible Go8 option — accepts 60%-70% for most programs. Engineering and IT need 65%-70%, while arts and education can go as low as 60%. Monash also has strong pathway programs if scores miss direct entry.

4、University of Queensland (QS #40): Accepts 65%-75% of Gaokao total. Engineering and science need 70%, business 65%-70%. UQ is particularly strong in biosciences, agriculture, and mining engineering.

5、University of Western Australia (QS #77): Requires 67.5%-70% of Gaokao total. Engineering and science programs need 70%, business accepts 67.5%. Perth’s cost advantage is notable.

6、University of Adelaide (QS #79): The most affordable Go8 option — accepts 60%-70%. Business needs 65%, engineering 70%, and specialized programs like viticulture can go as low as 60%-65%.

7、Australian National University (ANU, QS ranking not yet in Go8): Requires 70%-75% for most programs. ANU uses a round-based admissions system — apply early.

Important note: The University of Melbourne does NOT accept Gaokao scores. Chinese students must apply through Trinity College Foundation Studies or present alternative international qualifications (A-Levels, IB, etc.).

📖 - 2026 Using Gaokao Scores for Australian Universities: Complete Entry Guide

Gaokao Score Requirements by Province

Gaokao cutoffs are calculated as a percentage of the total provincial score. For a 750-point province:

70% = 525 points
65% = 488 points
60% = 450 points

These percentages translate directly to university cutoffs. A student from Jiangsu with 525 points (70%) could access Sydney commerce or UNSW engineering. A Guangdong student with 488 points (65%) could access Monash education or arts. A Sichuan student with 450 points (60%) could access Adelaide viticulture.

How to Apply: Step by Step

1、Check university websites for the most current Gaokao entry requirements. Each university publishes these annually — always verify against the official source.

2、Prepare your documents: Gaokao score report (official), high school transcript (translated if needed), and IELTS/PTE score report.

3、Submit your application through the university’s international admissions portal or via an authorized education agent. Processing time is typically 2-6 weeks.

4、Accept your offer and confirm enrollment. Then apply for your student visa (Subclass 500).

English Language Requirements

Most Australian universities require IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0. Some programs accept PTE Academic scores. All international students must meet English requirements — check each program’s specific criteria.

Alternative Pathways If Scores Don’t Meet Requirements

1、Foundation Year programs: If Gaokao scores are below direct entry, foundation studies (one year) provide an alternative route to Go8 bachelor’s degrees. These are offered at UNSW, Monash, UWA, Adelaide, and ANU.

2、Diploma/International Year One: If Gaokao scores are close but not quite at the direct entry level, diploma programs (one year) can lead to Year 2 bachelor’s entry — saving one year compared to foundation. UNSW, Monash, UWA, and Adelaide offer this pathway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the University of Melbourne accept Gaokao scores? A: No. Melbourne is the only Go8 university that does NOT accept Gaokao. Chinese students must use Trinity College Foundation Studies (TCFS) or present other qualifications.

Q: How much does it cost to study in Australia? A: International student tuition varies by university and program. The following are approximate annual costs in Australian dollars:

Business/Commerce: AUD $39,000-$55,000 per year
Engineering/Science: AUD $42,000-$52,000 per year
Arts/Humanities: AUD $35,000-$45,000 per year

Living costs in Sydney and Melbourne are higher than in Perth and Adelaide. Budget approximately AUD $20,000-$30,000 per year for living expenses (accommodation, food, transport).

Q: Can I work while studying in Australia? A: Student visa holders (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. Post-study work rights (Subclass 485) allow 2-4 years of full-time work after graduation.

Sources

1、University of New South Wales 2026 International Undergraduate Admission Guide 2、University of Sydney 2026 Gaokao Entry Requirements (official website) 3、Monash University 2026 International Student Prospectus 4、University of Queensland 2026 Undergraduate Admission Guide 5、University of Western Australia 2026 International Admissions 6、University of Adelaide 2026 International Student Guide 7、Australian National University 2026 International Admissions Policy

Last updated: June 2026. Entry requirements change annually. Always verify against the latest university official publications.