International Students Life at JCU

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Life at JCU

Our Campuses

JCU has two main Australian campuses in Townsville and Cairns, as well as an international campus in Singapore. There are also opportunities to study and work in Mackay, Mount Isa, Thursday Island and Brisbane. Depending on your course, you may have the opportunity to visit or learn at another campus, or at additional research sites such as Orpheus Island or Fletcherview Cattle Station.

To learn more about the different offerings at each campus, click on your location of interest. Refer to the specific course page to see which locations offer your degree.

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JCU Ideas Lab Cairns

Discover Far North Queensland

Both of JCU’s main campuses are located in the Far North Queensland region of Australia. Our student experience is one of a kind, as no other university offers the opportunity to learn while surrounded by World Heritage-listed sites, including the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.

Learn more about the North Queensland region, the Cairns region and the Townsville region to explore everything this beautiful landscape has to offer.

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Coral spawning

The North Queensland lifestyle

The wider communities of Cairns and Townsville welcome JCU students to the region and relish the opportunity to share their relaxed way of life. From rainforest hikes to reef scuba-diving, you can enrich your student experience and take a break from study through guided tours or venture out on your own.

Move beyond classroom learning and work or volunteer within the community. Employment opportunities will depend on your previous experience, but you could gain valuable hands-on experience related to your field of study. Become a part of the Townsville or Cairns communities by attending some of the numerous events and celebrations that occur year-round.

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Students playing sport

Student life

The JCU experience is not limited to your course. As a JCU International student, you can explore our beautiful campuses, engage with a rich and diverse student community and meet like-minded people passionate about your interests. Experience the unique culture and people in Far North Queensland and embrace opportunities within welcoming wider communities.

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JCU students

Student support

Studying at JCU is an unforgettable experience, and you’ll receive support that empowers you to overcome any challenges you may face. Our 5-star ratings for student-teacher ratio means we’re experienced in equipping you for success1.

The Student Support team can connect you with a wide range of on-campus services, such as Academic Skills, Counselling, Peer-Assisted Study, JCU Library, Security and more.

International students can also benefit from an after-hours student assistance hotline, overseas student health cover, airport arrival services and career and employment advice.

For further assistance

JCU Community

With more than 21,000 students, JCU has built multicultural and welcoming student communities across each campus. The JCU Students Association is run by students, for students. Participate in their events, benefit from useful resources, and keep up to date with sporting and cultural opportunities.

On-campus events include Market Day, where you’ll be introduced to the large range of student clubs and societies you can join; and Harmony Day, where JCU comes together to celebrate cultural diversity and encourage inclusivity. There are also regular events where you can connect with your peers, and opportunities designed specifically for international students to network and form connections.

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Students

1 2024 Good Universities Guide

James Cook University partners with Russo Higher Education Pty Ltd to deliver the programs available at our Brisbane campus.