Adelaide University has welcomed its first students this month, marking the start of a new institution created through the merger of The University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia.
From the beginning, IDP has been working alongside the new university through a groundbreaking Innovation Partnership to help shape its international recruitment strategy and support students in choosing Adelaide as their study destination.
Through this partnership, IDP is co-designing the university’s approach to global student recruitment, combining our trusted market data with the real-world insight and expertise of our teams across more than 30 markets.
Supporting students from the beginning of their journey
Students enrolling in Adelaide University’s inaugural intake are already benefiting from this approach.
Amitabh Sarkar, who has started a Bachelor of Cyber Security, said the program’s practical structure influenced his decision.
“I have always wanted to set up my own cybersecurity firm, and the inclusion of the ‘Business for IT Professionals’ unit was a key reason I chose this university,” he said.
He added that he is looking forward to the international environment the university offers.
“I’m looking forward to meeting new people from different countries. It will help me improve my communication skills and build connections for my personal growth,” he said.
After graduation, Amitabh plans to return to Bangladesh to work as a cybersecurity analyst, gaining hands-on industry experience.
Simran Ferdoush, who will be studying a Master of Social Work, said the city’s lifestyle and the chance to connect directly with the university influenced her decision.
“Coming from a full of hustle-bustle city, Adelaide feels like a calm, fresh start for me,” she said.
“The application day helped me connect with a university representative and clear all my doubts.”
Trina Hassan, who has chosen to study Pharmacy, said both academic and financial considerations shaped her choice.
“The program aligns closely with my interest in healthcare and making a meaningful impact on patient wellbeing,” she said.
“I also received a scholarship, which greatly reduces my financial burden.”
She said she is looking forward to learning in a diverse environment and experiencing life in a new city, before returning home to build her career as a pharmacist.
The role of counselling and guidance
All three students also highlighted the role of IDP counsellors in supporting their journey to Australia.
Trina said the one-on-one support made a real difference during more complex stages of the process.
“From course selection to application guidance, I felt supported at every step,” she said.
“She was there during complex situations I couldn’t have figured out by myself, which made the process much clearer and less stressful.”
Building a future-focused international strategy
By working with Adelaide University from the outset, IDP is helping the institution design a recruitment approach that reflects the real needs and goals of international students.
As the university begins its journey, this partnership sets a strong foundation, helping more students move forward with confidence, and supporting the university’s growth in key global markets.