Victoria University vs Deakin University

Victoria University vs Deakin University

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

Both Victoria University and Deakin University are Victorian institutions, but Deakin ranks much higher in the world. In QS World University Rankings 2026, Deakin is ranked at 207th and Victoria University at 741st–750th. Deakin is in the 201–250 range and Victoria University is 401–500, as per Times Higher Education 2025. Deakin is ranked high in Nursing (top 50 in the world in QS), Sports-Related Subjects (top 20), and Education (top 100). Victoria University is ranked high in Sport and Exercise Science (top 100 in QS), Business, and Health Sciences, frequently appearing in the top 200–300 for these subjects.

General Information

Deakin, founded in 1974, is more extensive with an overall student number of more than 61,000 versus Victoria University's 40,000 (TAFE and higher education combined). Deakin provides more than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate offerings through four faculties focusing on interactive online and hybrid learning. Victoria University, established in 1991 as a dual sector university, offers more than 100 higher education courses in addition to TAFE/vocational course work, with a focus on block-model, experiential teaching on inner Melbourne campuses.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

Both have moderately competitive admissions. While there are no officially reported acceptance rates, Deakin typically needs ATAR scores in the range of 50–70 for undergraduates, in addition to English ability (IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent). Victoria University demands the equivalent of secondary education, portfolio admission for creative programs, and English ability (IELTS 6.0–6.5). Both have inclusive international student bodies, but Deakin gets a greater percentage of high-achieving students.

Research Impact & Facilities

Both institutions stress applied research, but Deakin has more extensive research output with more than AUD 200 million in funding per annum. It has research strengths in Health, Engineering, and Sustainability through state-of-the-art facilities such as the Institute for Frontier Materials and carbon fibre research laboratories. Victoria University is strong in Sport, Health, and Sustainable Industries through major facilities such as the Institute for Health and Sport and the Structural Fire Testing Facility. Deakin research impact is higher in the world, and Victoria University's industry-oriented centers catalyze local innovation.

Cost & Financial Aid

Victoria University fees for international undergraduate students fall between AUD 12,800–38,800 per year, with postgraduate between AUD 15,000–40,000, and estimated living costs around AUD 25,000. Deakin's fees are comparable, with undergraduate between AUD 16,000–40,000 and postgraduate between AUD 20,000–45,000, with comparable living costs. Both institutions have merit scholarships of up to 30% reduction in tuition. Victoria University offers equity grants for disadvantaged students, while Deakin has Vice-Chancellor's scholarships for up to 100% for high-performing students.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

Deakin is ranked 3rd in Australia for graduate employability (Times Higher Education 2025), with 89% full-time employment in four months and solid alumni in Health, Business, and Technology. Victoria University has the nation's highest employer satisfaction rate (92.4% in 2021), with 85% rate of employment and success in Sports, Education, and Community fields. Deakin's higher international reputation offers more opportunities, while Victoria University shines in real-world, vocational outcomes and regional industry connections.