If you’ve scored 6.5 in IELTS, take a breath, you can aim for some of Australia’s best universities for a Master’s in Computer Science. Below, we’ll walk you through strong university options that welcome an IELTS 6.5, what makes each stand out, what it costs, and the key dates for the application deadlines. Think of this like a friendly nudge + a mini roadmap to get you from “can I?” to “I’m in!”
At a glance (quick compare the best universities in Australia accepting IELTS 6.5 for an MS in Computer Science)
| University | Faculty | Degree/Program | Duration | IELTS | Tuition (Intl) | Living (est.) | Feb-2026 deadlines* |
| The University of Queensland (Brisbane) | Engineering, Architecture & IT | Masters – Computer Science | 1 year | 6.5 | AUD 58,100 | AUD 30,000 | Nov 30, 2025; Jan 31, 2026 |
| Curtin University (Perth) | Engineering & Information Technology | Masters – Computer Science | 2 years | 6.5 | AUD 32,300 | AUD 20,000 | Dec 1, 2025; Feb 3, 2026 |
| The University of Melbourne (Melbourne) | Engineering & Information Technology | Masters – Computer Science | 2 years | 6.5 | AUD 52,800 | AUD 25,000 | Aug 31, 2025; Nov 30, 2025 |
* Deadlines shown above are for the February 2026 intake
1) The University of Queensland (UQ), Brisbane
Founded in 1909 and one of Australia’s sandstone universities, UQ is a research heavyweight ranked second nationally by the Australian Research Council in the latest assessment and a member of the Group of Eight and APRU. It’s also a founding member of edX.
Program snapshot
- Degree: Masters – Computer Science
- Faculty: Engineering, Architecture & Information Technology
- Duration: 1 year (intensive path to the finish line)
- STEM-designated: Yes
Costs
- Tuition (International): AUD 58,100
- Tuition (Domestic): AUD 9,100
- Living: AUD 30,000
English/Academic
- IELTS: 6.5 (min/avg)
- TOEFL: 90 | PTE: 64 | Undergrad GPA: 5
Deadlines for Feb 2026
- Nov 30, 2025
- Jan 31, 2026
2) Curtin University, Perth
Western Australia’s largest university, named after former PM John Curtin. Big, industry-facing ecosystem with 59,939 students (2021).
Program snapshot
- Degree: Masters – Information Systems & Technology
- Faculty: Computer Science
- Duration: 2 years
- STEM-designated: Yes
Costs
- Tuition (International): AUD 32,300
- Tuition (Domestic): AUD 32,300
- Living: AUD 20,000
English
- IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL: 79 | PTE: 69
Deadlines for Feb 2026
- Dec 1, 2025
- Feb 3, 2026
3) The University of Melbourne, Melbourne
Australia’s second-oldest university (1853) and Victoria’s oldest, with a central Parkville campus. Global reputation + deep research culture.
Program snapshot
- Degree: Masters – Computer Science
- Faculty: Engineering & Information Technology
- Duration: 2 years
- STEM-designated: Yes
Costs
- Tuition (International): AUD 52,800
- Tuition (Domestic): AUD 9,300
- Living: AUD 25,000
English
- IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL: 79 | PTE: 64
Deadlines for Feb 2026
- Aug 31, 2025
- Nov 30, 2025
How to decide between Universities
- Program Structure and Duration:
Evaluate whether a 1-year intensive program (e.g., UQ) aligns with your goals for rapid graduation, or whether a 2-year program (e.g., Curtin or Melbourne) better supports specialization, internships, and research depth. - Academic Orientation:
Confirm whether your interests are core computer science (algorithms, systems, AI) or information systems and technology management (enterprise systems, analytics, process change). Select the faculty and curriculum emphasis that corresponds to your intended career path. - Cost of Study:
Consider tuition plus estimated living expenses together and assess affordability across cities (Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne). Account for currency fluctuations, insurance, and potential internship income when planning. - Admission Timelines:
Align test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE), transcripts, references, and funding proof with the specific deadlines stated above. Earlier deadlines require earlier decisions on documentation and visa preparation. - Location and Support:
Review the city’s industry links, climate, transport, and student services. Access to academic support, labs, and career services can materially influence outcomes over the duration of study.
Take the step towards a fulfilling career
If you’re holding an IELTS 6.5, you’re already in range for reputable Australian programs. Shortlist, organize your documents against the deadlines, and move from research to application with confidence.
At ApplyBuds, we help students from India who aspire to pursue higher education abroad by simplifying their journey. From university shortlisting to SOP and LOR writing, and even interview preparation, our free AI-driven platform provides the tools you need to apply with clarity and confidence.
