International relationships

As a global university, the University of Sydney measures itself by international standards, and aspires to achieve:

• clear leadership as Australia’s premier university
• acknowledgment and ranking as one of the top five universities in the region, and
• recognition and ranking in the top 40 universities around the world.

The University engages in a wide range of international activities:

Association of the Pacific Rim Universities (APRU)

The University is a partner in a global network of research collaboration and student exchange that spans Europe, North America and Asia. Sydney is one of only three Australian institutions in the prestigious Association of the Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) which comprises members from Asia, the United States and South America. Our position in AC21 and APRU enables the University to take a leading role in research and teaching and to collaborate across international boundaries. In 2006 the University of Sydney hosted the APRU conference, a key forum to discuss issues of strategic importance to research universities.

Worldwide Universities Network (WUN)

The University of Sydney is a member of the the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), a partnership of 17 research-led universities from Asia, Australasia, Europe and North America.

The WUN alliance exists to make significant advances in knowledge and understanding in areas of current global concern. By fostering and encouraging collaboration between members, WUN brings together the experience, equipment and expertise necessary to tackle the big issues currently facing societies, governments, corporations and education.

Academic Consortium (AC21)

The Academic Consortium (AC21) is an international network comprised of educational, research and industrial organizations throughout the world. The Consortium has been established to encourage the further advancement of global cooperation to the benefit of higher education and to contribute to world and regional society.

Collaborative research projects

The University's academics are involved in collaborative research projects with colleagues overseas, with governments and with other organisations to further knowledge and improve people's lives.

Internationally recognised graduates

University of Sydney graduates are based throughout the world. Graduates who have gained international recognition for their work include President of the World Bank, James Wolfensohn; academic and businesswoman Jill Ker Conway; film makers Phil Noyce, Jane Campion and Bruce Beresford; soprano Yvonne Kenny; writers Germaine Greer and Clive James; and Nobel laureates Sir John Cornforth and Dr John Harsanyi.

Active alumni networks

Alumni Associations are active overseas, particularly in North America, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and Hong Kong, and the Alumni Relations Office is happy to help you keep in touch.

Biannual international newspaper

Twice a year, the University also produces special international editions of its fortnightly newspaper, focussing on research and teaching activities throughout the world.