Benefits of Studying at Queensland Academies with International Baccalaureate programs

Queensland Academies International Baccalaureate programmes provide high‑achieving students in Years 10–12 with a selective, university‑focused pathway that goes well beyond a typical high school experience. By combining the globally recognised International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme with specialist campuses and university‑linked precincts in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Queensland Academies help students maximise their academic potential and prepare for competitive university admission in Australia and around the world

Queensland Academies International Baccalaureate programs are delivered across three selective‑entry Queensland Government schools: QACI (Queensland Academy for Creative Industry), QAHS (Queensland Academy for Health Science) and QASMT (Queensland Academy for Science, Maths and Technology) that specialise in offering the IB Diploma Programme (IB DP) in Years 10, 11 and 12. The Academies are designed as a bridge between school and university, aligning senior secondary learning with tertiary expectations.

Studying at Queensland Academies for the IB Diploma Programme means students: 

• Learn in selective‑entry environments with high‑achieving, motivated peers 

• Complete a rigorous, internationally benchmarked IB Diploma recognised by universities worldwide [source: International Baccalaureate Organization 2020] 

• Study on or near major university precincts in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Queensland 

• Benefit from a school culture and curriculum that explicitly focus on university readiness and future career pathways 

The International Baccalaureate Organization’s research indicates that IB Diploma graduates are more likely to enrol in and complete degrees at leading universities and often perform better academically in their first year of university compared with some non‑IB peers, thanks to the programme’s emphasis on critical thinking, research and independent learning

Queensland Academies deliver IB program and operate three specialist campuses, each aligned with distinct student interests and degree pathways: 

• Queensland Academies Creative Industries Campus (QACI): This campus focuses on creative industries, and located in the inner‑city Brisbane, next to QUT (Queensland University of Technologies), Kelvin Grove Campus.  

• Queensland Academies Health Sciences Campus (QAHS): This campus focuses on health and sciences, and located in Gold Coast, closed to Griffith University Gold Coast Campus.  

• Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT): This campus has STEM focus, located in Toowong, Brisbane, not too far from the University of Queensland (UQ).  

Comparison/attribute table: QACI, QAHS and QASMT  

The table below uses only attributes clearly supported by your brochure and related official descriptions: 

Academy	Focus area	Location & precinct	University connection	Campus environment & facilities	Ideal student interests
QACI (Queensland Academies Creative Industries Campus)	Creative industries	Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, within 2 km of inner‑city	Within the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Creative Industries Precinct	Multicultural “village” environment with shared green, business and education spaces; inclusive community of innovative and creative thinkers	Students passionate about creative and critical thinking, arts, media and creative industries who value a vibrant inner‑city campus
QAHS (Queensland Academies Health Sciences Campus)	Health sciences	Gold Coast, within the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct	Co‑located with Griffith University	The facilities support both independent study and collaborative learning, with university-style 500-seat lecture theatre, university-standard research laboratories, science research centre and kinesiology/exercise science facilities	Students interested in health, biomedical and science fields who want strong research, co‑curricular and leadership opportunities
QASMT (Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology)	Science, mathematics and technology	Toowong, approximately 4 km from central Brisbane	Formal collaboration with The University of Queensland	STEM Precinct with contemporary learning areas, robotics and state‑of‑the‑art science laboratories and e‑learning hubs; university‑standard science laboratories across campus	Students focused on STEM and languages, planning a university pathway and aiming for offers from prestigious universities worldwide

 

The strategic placement of each Academy within or beside major education and innovation precincts mirrors global best practice for university‑linked secondary schools, as seen in other high‑performing education systems. 

The IB Diploma Programme is a comprehensive, two‑year curriculum designed for students aged 16–19, with a strong emphasis on breadth, depth and higher‑order thinking. At Queensland Academies, students undertake a preparatory year in Year 10 followed by the full Diploma Programme in Years 11 and 12. 

Key academic features at Queensland Academies include: 

• Study in six subject groups (languages, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics and the arts), supporting both specialisation and breadth

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK), which develops critical thinking about knowledge, evidence and perspectives. 

• The Extended Essay (EE), a 4,000‑word independent research project mirroring the structure and demands of first‑year university research assignments. 

• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), encouraging learning through arts, physical activity and community service. 

According to IB and independent research: 

• Diploma Programme students often show stronger time‑management and self‑regulation, which are key predictors of university success

• They are more familiar with academic writing, citation and research than many peers in other curricula. 

• They tend to develop critical thinking and problem‑solving skills that align with the competencies identified as essential for future careers  

By embedding this IB structure in selective‑entry environments, Queensland Academies amplify these benefits and can support particularly strong academic performance.

Queensland Academies are explicitly positioned as a bridge to university. This is reflected in their campus locations, facilities, curriculum and culture. 

Students at Queensland Academies benefit from: 

• University‑aligned campuses and partnerships: 

• QACI is integrated into the QUT Creative Industries Precinct, one of Australia’s leading hubs for creative arts and media

• QAHS is co‑located with Griffith University in the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct, a growing centre for health education and research

• QASMT maintains a formal collaboration with The University of Queensland, a Group of Eight research‑intensive university

• A learning model that mirrors university assessment styles, through extended essays, research projects and oral presentations. 

• A culture where university entry is a primary goal, with QASMT in particular noting a strong record of graduates receiving offers from prestigious universities worldwide

International research shows that graduates of academically rigorous secondary programmes, including the IB, are more likely to enrol in selective universities and persist through degree completion than some comparable non‑IB students

While Queensland Academies do not track or publish specific salary data, the pathways they support are aligned with high‑demand fields identified by governments and labour‑market bodies: 

• Health and biomedical sciences have been consistently listed as priority growth areas in Australia and globally, with ongoing demand for doctors, nurses, allied health professionals and medical researchers [World Health Organization 2022; Australian Government National Skills Commission 2022]. 

• STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) are associated with strong job growth and innovation, particularly in information technology, data science, engineering, and environmental sciences [OECD 2020; World Economic Forum 2020]. 

• Creative industries—such as design, film, interactive media and performing arts—are increasingly recognised as drivers of innovation and cultural export, especially in cities like Brisbane with established creative sectors [Australia Council for the Arts 2021; Brisbane City Council 2022]. 

By providing strong preparation for degrees in these fields, Queensland Academies help students position themselves for future‑focused careers and, for some, potential skilled migration pathways, subject to evolving government policy [Australian Government Department of Home Affairs 2023].

Queensland Academies enrich the IB experience with activities that build research capability, leadership and community engagement—qualities highly valued by universities and scholarship bodies. 

How do enrichment activities strengthen student profiles? 

According to your brochure and external program descriptions: 

• Students participate in CSIRO CREST Research Awards, which encourage open‑ended scientific investigations aligned with national science curriculum and industry standards [CSIRO 2023]. 

• They can enter BHP Foundation Science and Engineering Awards and other competitions, gaining experience in science communication and innovation at a national level [BHP Foundation 2022]. 

• They engage in regional, state and national mathematics and science competitions, which have been shown to correlate with high problem‑solving ability and interest in STEM careers [Australian Mathematics Trust 2022]. 

• Leadership development programs, Australian Business Week, language and linguistics competitions and instrumental music programs help build transferable skills such as teamwork, communication and creativity. 

• Community projects and CAS activities develop a sense of social responsibility and global citizenship, key priorities in the IB Learner Profile [International Baccalaureate Organization 2020; Education Queensland International 2023]. 

These experiences not only enhance personal growth but also provide concrete evidence of initiative and capability for university applications and scholarship interviews.

Education Queensland International and Queensland Academies outline a merit‑based entry process that typically includes: 

1. Application to Education Queensland International (EQI) to confirm eligibility as an international student. 

1. Selective entry application to Queensland Academies, including academic records from the previous two years. 

1. Entrance testing to assess academic readiness for the IB programme. 

1. Interview for shortlisted applicants, evaluating motivation, personal behaviour, citizenship and commitment to personal and social development. 

1. Merit‑based offers, after which EQI continues with standard processes such as issuing offers, processing payments and providing Confirmations of Enrolment [Education Queensland International 2023]. 

Applicants are expected to show: 

• High standards of personal behaviour 

• Commitment to personal and social development 

• A demonstrated sense of citizenship and care for others 

• Strong academic results over the previous two years 

OECD research suggests that learning environments with high expectations, strong peer academic orientation and a clear focus on achievement are associated with better student outcomes and engagement [OECD 2020]. Selective entry at Queensland Academies helps create and maintain such environments.

International students can access Queensland Academies through EQI, benefiting from a combination of academic rigour, government‑level quality assurance and global recognition of the IB. 

What are the specific advantages for international students? 

For international students, Queensland Academies offer: 

• A government school setting under the Queensland Government Department of Education, ensuring regulation, quality standards and child‑safety frameworks [Queensland Government Department of Education 2023]. 

• Delivery by Education Queensland International (EQI), with: 

• CRICOS Provider name: Education Queensland International 

• CRICOS Provider code: 00608A 

• CRICOS course codes, including: 

• International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (Years 11 and 12) – 079324E 

• International Baccalaureate Diploma Program – 082520G 

• Queensland Academies International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (Years 11 and 12) – 079324E 

• Location in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, both ranked as attractive international student destinations with strong safety, lifestyle and education infrastructure [Study Queensland 2023; QS Best Student Cities 2023]. 

• An internationally recognised IB Diploma that can be used for admission to Australian universities and many institutions worldwide [International Baccalaureate Organization 2020]. 

EQI also coordinates offers, payments and Confirmations of Enrolment required for Australian student visas. Students must still meet immigration requirements set by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs [Australian Government Department of Home Affairs 2023]. 

International studies show that school climates that combine high expectations with support, respect and inclusion contribute to better mental health, engagement and long‑term outcomes [OECD 2020; Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021]. Queensland Academies’ emphasis on values and community sits within this global best practice.

1. Which Queensland Academy is best for students wanting to study medicine or health?
   Students aiming for medicine, dentistry or allied health degrees often consider Queensland Academies Health Sciences Campus (QAHS) becausehealth science is the focus of this campus. It is also located within the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct and co‑located with Griffith University, which has well‑regarded health and medical programs. However, students must still choose appropriate IB subjects and meet each university’s specific prerequisites. 
2. Which Academy is strongest for STEM and advanced mathematics?
   Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) ispurpose‑built for STEM, with a dedicated STEM Precinct, robotics facilities and university‑standard science laboratories. It is particularly suited to students interested in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science or similar degrees
3. Which Queensland Academy is best for creative industries and the arts?
   Queensland Academies Creative Industries Campus (QACI) is embedded in the QUT Creative Industries Precinct, giving students access to a creative, design‑oriented environment that aligns well with future study in areas such as visual arts, media, film, drama and related fields
4. Is Queensland Academies better for local or international students?
   Queensland Academies are designed for both. Local studentsbenefit from a high‑performing, selective public school environment, while international students study the same IB Diploma within a regulated government framework managed by EQI. The best option depends on each student’s goals, language background, preferred campus and long‑term university plans. 
5. Do Queensland Academies improve my chances of admission to top universities?
   Schoolscan guarantee university admission, but the combination of a selective‑entry cohort, an academically demanding IB Diploma, university‑linked locations and extensive enrichment means Queensland Academies students are strongly positioned for competitive applications. International research shows IB graduates are well represented at leading universities and often perform strongly in first‑year studies

1. Which Queensland Academy is best for students wanting to study medicine or health?
   Students aiming for medicine, dentistry or allied health degrees often consider Queensland Academies Health Sciences Campus (QAHS) becausehealth science is the focus of this campus. It is also located within the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct and co‑located with Griffith University, which has well‑regarded health and medical programs. However, students must still choose appropriate IB subjects and meet each university’s specific prerequisites. 
2. Which Academy is strongest for STEM and advanced mathematics?
   Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) ispurpose‑built for STEM, with a dedicated STEM Precinct, robotics facilities and university‑standard science laboratories. It is particularly suited to students interested in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science or similar degrees
3. Which Queensland Academy is best for creative industries and the arts?
   Queensland Academies Creative Industries Campus (QACI) is embedded in the QUT Creative Industries Precinct, giving students access to a creative, design‑oriented environment that aligns well with future study in areas such as visual arts, media, film, drama and related fields
4. Is Queensland Academies better for local or international students?
   Queensland Academies are designed for both. Local studentsbenefit from a high‑performing, selective public school environment, while international students study the same IB Diploma within a regulated government framework managed by EQI. The best option depends on each student’s goals, language background, preferred campus and long‑term university plans. 
5. Do Queensland Academies improve my chances of admission to top universities?
   Schoolscan guarantee university admission, but the combination of a selective‑entry cohort, an academically demanding IB Diploma, university‑linked locations and extensive enrichment means Queensland Academies students are strongly positioned for competitive applications. International research shows IB graduates are well represented at leading universities and often perform strongly in first‑year studies

1. Who are Queensland Academies International Baccalaureate best suited for?
   It is best suited to high‑achieving, motivated students in Years 10–12 who want a challenging IB programme and a clear pathway to university, particularly in creative industries (QACI), health and biomedical sciences (QAHS), or STEM and languages (QASMT). 
2. What are the CRICOS details for international students?
   Education Queensland International is the CRICOS provider (code 00608A). Relevant IB‑related CRICOS course codes include International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (Years 11 and 12) 079324E and International Baccalaureate Diploma Program 082520G, including the Queensland Academies International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (Years 11 and 12) 079324E
3. How do I apply for selective entry to Queensland Academies as an international student?
   You apply to EQI to confirm eligibility, then complete the Queensland Academies selective entry process, which typically includes an online application, entrance test and interview. Successful applicants receive a merit‑based offer and then a Confirmation of Enrolment via EQI, which is needed for a student visa
4. Are Queensland Academies public or private?
   Queensland Academies are selective‑entry government schools run by the Queensland Government Department of Education and delivered to international students through Education Queensland International
5. Can I use the Queensland Academies IB Diploma to study outside Australia?
   Yes. The IB Diploma is an internationally recognised qualification accepted for admission by many universities worldwide. Queensland Academies graduates can use their IB results to apply to Australian institutions or universities in other countries, subject to each institution’s entry policies [International Baccalaureate Organization 2020].

• Education Queensland International (EQI). Programs and schools – Queensland Academies. 2023. 

• International Baccalaureate Organization. Research on the impact of the IB Diploma Programme on university outcomes. 2020. 

• Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER). University readiness and senior secondary programmes. 2020. 

• OECD. PISA 2018 Results (Volume III): What School Life Means for Students’ Lives. 2020. 

• World Economic Forum. The Future of Jobs Report. 2020. 

• World Health Organization. Global Strategy on Human Resources for Health. 2022. 

• Australian Government, National Skills Commission. Skills Priority List. 2022. 

• Australian Government, Department of Home Affairs. Student visa and skilled migration information. 2023. 

• Queensland University of Technology, Griffith University, The University of Queensland – official university pages on creative industries, health and STEM.