By Shruti Menon Seeboo
The Australian higher education landscape is being redefined with the Adelaide University, a powerhouse institution set to accelerate research and industry-focused learning, particularly benefiting international students aiming for global careers. To understand the new opportunities available, we spoke with Connor McKinnon, International Recruitment Coordinator for Africa, Americas, and Europe. McKinnon details the university’s renewed focus on cutting-edge fields like Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, anchored by the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML). He also clarifies the streamlined, automatic assessment for generous merit scholarships and outlines the extensive student support services—from award-winning accommodation to robust career guidance—designed to ensure a seamless transition and successful employment outcomes under the Post-Study Work visa framework. His insights provide a clear roadmap for Mauritian students ready to leverage this enhanced academic experience. Excerpts:
1. Given that Adelaide University strong reputation in fields like Engineering, Physical Sciences, and Health/Medical Sciences, which specific undergraduate or postgraduate program are you currently investing the most resources into for industry-focused, research-led learning? Can you provide an example of a recent industry partnership or major research outcome that a student starting in 2025 or 2026 would directly benefit from?
Adelaide University is focusing on degrees across the board – However, due to the recent merger meaning that we can pool resources from both institutions, areas like Artificial Intelligence, Data Sciences and Computer Sciences are thriving across the board. One specific area of research to note is that Adelaide University is home to AIML, the Australian Institute for Machine Learning, which is the largest centre for AI research in the entire southern hemisphere.
2. Could you detail the automatic assessment process and typical award amount for the Adelaide Global Citizens Scholarship or other merit scholarships for students entering with a strong academic background from Mauritius? Furthermore, what is a realistic, total annual budget estimate (in AUD) for an international student in Adelaide covering tuition, housing, and essential living expenses?
The Adelaide Global Citizens Scholarship is one of many scholarships that we offer to our international students. The most commonly awarded scholarships are 25% and 15% off scholarships, which are ongoing for each and every year of a student’s degree. These are automatically assigned based on grades from high school/previous university study, with higher grades giving higher scholarships. Furthermore, we have a 50% off scholarship for especially high performing students – This scholarship is not automatically assessed however, and requires a short application form.
3. What specific career support services—such as visa-compliant internships, career advising for the Australian labour market, or networking events—does the university provide to ensure international graduates, especially in highly competitive fields, can effectively leverage the Post-Study Work visa? What is the average full-time employment rate for your international post-graduate students within six months of graduation?
The University provides a wide range of support in this field, mainly centred from our Career Services team. The Career Services team is focused on long-term career development for our international students, and can help them with things like arranging internships, networking events, interview skills and much more. While the current cohort of Adelaide University students is yet to graduate (as the merger is still in progress), the legacy universities have been ranked South Australia’s #1 university for graduate employability.
4. Can you describe the international student support services that address the common challenges of moving from a smaller island nation like Mauritius (e.g., cultural adjustment, finding safe and affordable accommodation, and mental well-being)? Are there dedicated programs for social integration beyond the initial orientation?
The Adelaide University’s International Student Support service includes counselling and wellbeing, peer-assisted study sessions (PASS), orientation programmes and ongoing social support. For the challenge of accommodation, we offer the option for shared accommodation, homestay opportunities, and many other housing options for international students in Adelaide. Furthermore, our accommodation service has historically been ranked #1 in Australia, and will work with each student’s particular wants and needs to ensure the best experience on their accommodation journeys.
5. For a student enrolling now, how will the quality of teaching, access to campus facilities (e.g., labs, libraries), and degree recognition be enhanced under this new structure, and what is the university doing to guarantee a seamless transition for current students?
Students enrolling now are set to experience the best of both worlds as the University of Adelaide and UniSA unite to form Adelaide University. This new institution will combine world-class research, cutting-edge teaching, and access to exceptional facilities across both campuses. Throughout the transition, students are fully supported with dedicated services and guaranteed program continuity, ensuring a smooth journey and a degree that carries even greater global recognition. Students transitioning to the new uni have already received study plans guiding them through the process, and student support services will be prioritising such students for their start in the new university.
