James Cook University admissions are offered multiple times a year. The academic year is divided into Teaching Period 1 and Teaching Period 2. These are further divided into trimesters and study periods. The applications for the 2025-26 academic year are now closed. However, the applications for the next academic year are open, and the deadlines vary from November 2025 to July 2026 for the different academic periods. The popular courses among international students are MBA, Master of Engineering, Master of Social Work, and Marine Biology. The acceptance rate of James Cook University is 74%.
To apply to James Cook University, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria, like minimum score requirements, and submit the supporting documents. Though standardized tests like GMAT, GRE, SAT, or ACT are not mandatory, they are advisable to strengthen your profile. For graduate programs, the admission criteria also include undergraduate major-specific score requirements. For example, if you hold an undergraduate degree in Engineering, you must have a minimum score of 70 out of 75. You need to submit the official transcripts of all the test scores, along with a passport, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a CV or resume.

- James Cook University Popular Programs
- James Cook University Application Deadline
- James Cook University Admissions Requirements
3.1 James Cook University MBA Admissions
3.2 James Cook University Postgraduate Admissions
3.3 James Cook University Undergraduate Admissions
- James Cook University Admission Decision
- FAQs
James Cook University Popular Programs
James Cook University (JCU) provides 117 programs to international students, out of which 49 are undergraduate and 68 are graduate programs. The university’s Environment & Ecology subject is ranked #40 by the US News & World Report 2025. Apart from this, MBA, Social Work, and Marine Biology are also popular among international students.
Mentioned below are some of the top courses offered by James Cook University:
| Program | Duration | Tuition Fee (AUD) | Tuition Fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBA | 2 years | 38,008 | 21.5 Lakhs |
| Master of Information Technology | 2 years | 38,008 | 21.5 Lakhs |
| Master of Public Health | 1.5 years | 42,477 | 24 Lakhs |
| Master of Professional Accounting | 2 years | 39,148 | 22.2 Lakhs |
| MS Marine Biology | 2 years | 48,492 | 27.5 Lakhs |
| Master of Medical Science | 2 years | 46,111 | 26 Lakhs |
| Master Data Science | 2 years | 38,365 | 21.7 Lakhs |
| Bachelor of Laws | 3 years | 36,899 | 21 Lakhs |
| Bachelor of Information Technology | 3 years | 36,899 | 21 Lakhs |
James Cook University Application Deadline
James Cook University academic year is divided into Teaching Period 1 (first 6 months) and Teaching Period 2 (the last 6 months). Across these Teaching Periods are individual Study Periods and Trimesters. The applications for the 2025-26 academic year are now closed. You can check the application deadlines below for the upcoming academic year of 2026-27:
| Trimester/Study Period | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science | 31 August 2025 |
| Trimester 1, 2026 | 27 November 2025 |
| Study Period 1, 2026 | 25 December 2025 |
| Trimester 2, 2026 | 14 March 2026 |
| Study Period 2, 2026 | 28 May 2026 |
| Trimester 3, 2026 | 16 July 2026 |
*The application deadlines for UG and PG are the same.
Also check: Intakes in Australia
James Cook University Admissions Requirements
The admission process for JCU starts with filling up the online application form on the JCU website. Before applying, you need to make sure that you meet the prescribed eligibility requirements and submit the proof for the same. The eligibility criteria vary for undergraduate and graduate courses. There may be additional requirements for some courses, like MBA and Dentistry. The detailed eligibility criteria and required documents are mentioned below.
James Cook University MBA Admissions
MBA is one of the most sought-after programs by international students at JCU. The majors offered under the MBA program include Economic Resilience, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Leadership, and Project Management. Mentioned below are the detailed eligibility criteria and supporting documents required:
Eligibility:
- English Language Proficiency tests (any 1):
- Academic scores:
- 3-year or 4-year undergraduate degree (not necessarily be in business or related fields)
- Minimum score for specific undergraduate majors:
- BBA - 60 out of 65
- BEngg - 70 out of 75
- LLB - 75 out of 80
Documents:
- Official academic transcripts of Senior school and beyond. It must be a digital academic statement, not a scanned copy
- Graduation certificates or official awards in both the original and English languages
- Official English language proficiency scores
- Copy of passport
- A CV or resume highlighting your work experience and skills
- Personal Statement
- Letter of Recommendation
James Cook University Postgraduate Admissions
Master of Social Work and Master of Marine Biology are among the top postgraduate programs at James Cook University. While the entry requirements are similar across programs, there is a variation in those of Dentistry and Vet Science. This program also includes a written application and a personal interview. GMAT or GRE are not mandatory, but adding them can help your application stand out.
Mentioned below are the eligibility criteria and supporting documents in detail:
- English Language Proficiency Test scores (any 1):
| Test Name | Band P | Band 1 | Band 2 | Band 3a | Band 3b | Band 3c |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| TOEFL | 56 | 74 | 86 | 94 | 94 | 94 |
| PTE | 46 | 52 | 58 | 65 | 65 | 65 |
| C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency | 162 | 169 | 176 | NA | NA | NA |
- Standardized tests like GMAT or GRE are not mandatory, but adding them can help elevate your application.
- Academic Scores: Vary from degree to degree. The list below shows some of the minimum scores required for the respective undergraduate degrees:
- Bachelor of Engineering 70 out of 75,
- Bachelor of Commerce and BBA: 60 out of 65, and
- LLB: 75 out of 80
*You need to check the page of the course you want to apply to for the academic score cut-off.
- For Dentistry, Medicine, and Vet Science courses, additional criteria include a written application and/or completing a personal interview with JCU academic selectors.
After meeting the eligibility criteria, you need to submit the following supporting documents along with the application:
- Official academic transcripts of Senior school and beyond. It must be a digital academic statement, not a scanned copy
- Graduation certificates or official awards in both the original and English languages
- Official English language proficiency scores
- Copy of passport
- Course-specific application documents (like CV or resume for MBA, written application for Dentistry, and Medicine)
- Personal Statement
- Letter of Recommendation
Also check: Australian Student Visa
James Cook University Undergraduate Admissions
Among the undergraduate programs at James Cook University, the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Information Technology are the popular choices. For undergraduate programs, there are no strict entry requirements. You only need to have some knowledge of the relevant subjects.
The detailed eligibility criteria and the supporting documents for undergraduate admissions are as follows:
- Class XII - No minimum score; knowledge of English and Mathematics (for IT) is required
- English Language Proficiency Test scores (any 1):
| Test Name | Band P | Band 1 | Band 2 | Band 3a | Band 3b | Band 3c |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| TOEFL | 56 | 74 | 86 | 94 | 94 | 94 |
| PTE | 46 | 52 | 58 | 65 | 65 | 65 |
| C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency | 162 | 169 | 176 | NA | NA | NA |
- Standardized tests like the SAT or ACT are not mandatory, but adding them can help elevate your application.
Documents required:
- Official academic transcripts of secondary school, in both the original and English languages. It must be a digital academic statement, not a scanned copy
- Official English language proficiency scores
- Copy of passport
- Personal Statement
- Letter of Recommendation
James Cook University Admission Decision
You can expect to hear from the university in 3 weeks of submitting the application. If sufficient time has lapsed and you still do not hear from the university, you may contact any of the following:
- Email International Admissions Office: international@jcu.edu.au
- Phone International Admissions Office (Brisbane): +61 7 4232 1000
- Online Enquiry: Submit an online form on the Contact Us page
- Admissions Portal: Check your application status on the JCU Application Portal, or use the portal’s messaging system to send an inquiry
- International Student Office: Email the International Students Support Team at international.student@jcu.edu.au
The admission decision at James Cook University is based on a thorough evaluation of your academic background, English language proficiency, and specific program requirements.
For undergraduate applicants, JCU considers the overall performance in Class 12, and a focus on meeting the general eligibility criteria rather than a fixed score.
For postgraduate applicants, JCU evaluates the relevant undergraduate degree, academic standing, and work experience to arrive at a decision.
If all criteria are met, the applicant receives an offer of admission. However, applicants who do not fully meet the requirements may be considered for alternative pathways (like Foundation Programs) or bridging programs, like English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS), to help them qualify for the chosen program.
FAQs
Ques. How many Campuses does James Cook University have?
Ans. James Cook University has 3 campuses in Australia - Townsville, Cairns, and Brisbane. It also has a fourth campus in the city-state of Singapore.
Ques. Apart from tuition fees, what are the other fees that I need to pay?
Ans. Apart from the tuition fees, you have to pay for Overseas Student Health Cover, Student Services and Amenities fee, and Incidental and Administration fee.
Ques. Can I defer courses at JCU, and for how long?
Ans. Yes, you can defer your chosen course at James Cook University for up to 1 year. For deferring, you will have to write an application explaining the reasons.
Ques. Does James Cook University offer financial aid to international students?
Ans. Yes, James Cook University offers a range of scholarships for international students, such as JCU International Student Merit Stipend, College Progression Scholarship, and Research Scholarships.
Ques. How is the personal interview taken for the Dentistry course at JCU?
Ans. After applying for Dentistry, Medicine, or Veterinary Science courses, you will be asked to take an interview using the Kira Talent system. The interview is charged with a Kira cost of INR 1030(plus tax).
Ques. What percentage do I need to have in Class 12 to be eligible for JCU?
Ans. James Cook University does not fix a percentage limit for Class 12 to be eligible for undergraduate admissions. It evaluates the student’s overall performance in Class 12, especially in English and Mathematics, before giving an offer.
College Student Profiles
James Cook University-Townsville Program Fees & Deadlines
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Eligibility | Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
M.B.A 2 years Course Offered by: | Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (15th Jan 2026) Application Deadline For February Intake (Semester 1) (12th Feb 2026) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (7th May 2026) | USD 24,705 /Yr AUD 38,008 /Yr | Bachelor degree, IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 86 | |
M.S.W 2 years | Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (15th Jan 2026) Application Deadline For February Intake (Semester 1) (12th Feb 2026) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (7th May 2026) | USD 21,866 /Yr AUD 33,640 /Yr | Bachelor degree, IELTS: 7, TOEFL: 94 | |
M.S Data Science 2 years | Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (15th Jan 2026) Application Deadline For February Intake (Semester 1) (12th Feb 2026) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (7th May 2026) | USD 24,211 /Yr AUD 37,248 /Yr | Bachelor degree, IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 86 | |
Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (15th Jan 2026) Application Deadline For February Intake (Semester 1) (12th Feb 2026) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (7th May 2026) | USD 25,446 /Yr AUD 39,148 /Yr | Bachelor degree, IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 86 | ||
B.I.T 3 years | Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (9th Dec 2025) Application Deadline For February Intake (Semester 1) (12th Feb 2026) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (5th May 2026) Application Deadline for September — Trimester 3 (14th Jul 2026) | USD 23,984 /Yr AUD 36,899 /Yr | XII: 63/68%, IELTS:6, TOEFL:74 | |
B.A Nursing Science 3 years | Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (9th Dec 2025) Application Deadline For February Intake (Semester 1) (16th Feb 2026) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (5th May 2026) Application Deadline for September — Trimester 3 (14th Jul 2026) | USD 24,211 /Yr AUD 37,248 /Yr | XII: 60/65%, IELTS:7, TOEFL:94 | |
Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (9th Dec 2025) Application Deadline For February Intake (Semester 1) (16th Feb 2026) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (5th May 2026) Application Deadline for September — Trimester 3 (14th Jul 2026) | USD 26,806 /Yr AUD 41,240 /Yr | XII: 60/65%, IELTS:6, TOEFL:74 | ||
M.B.B.S 6 years | Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (9th Dec 2025) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (5th May 2026) Application Deadline for September — Trimester 3 (14th Jul 2026) | USD 46,399 /Yr AUD 71,383 /Yr | IELTS:7, TOEFL:94 | |
M.A Professional Accounting 2 years | Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (15th Jan 2026) Application Deadline For February Intake (Semester 1) (12th Feb 2026) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (7th May 2026) | USD 25,446 /Yr AUD 39,148 /Yr | Bachelor degree, IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 86 | |
Application Deadline for January — Trimester 1 (15th Jan 2026) Application Deadline For February Intake (Semester 1) (16th Feb 2026) Application Deadline for May — Trimester 2 (7th May 2026) | USD 29,099 /Yr AUD 44,768 /Yr | IELTS:6.5, TOEFL:86 |
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