International Portfolio

Focus on China

The University has completed a busy week of activities in China.
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OECD International Forum

Aart de Geus discusses how universities can influence social and economic development. Read more

Postcard from Xinjiang

Archaeologist Peter Jia writes about a murder mystery in remote north-west China.

The University of Sydney is home to students from 130 countries. It’s a remarkable statistic that helps to explain the diversity and openness that is such a feature of the University.

Our vision as a global university is to ensure the students and staff we attract are the best and brightest from around the world; that our teaching and learning is of the highest quality; and that the University is recognised as a centre of learning where leaders can grow and thrive.

The Portfolio of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor International is central to this effort. The portfolio drives the university-wide strategy for external international engagement and for internal internationalisation.

Our aim is to position Sydney in the top rank of international research universities, working for the benefit of Australia and the wider world. It is in the global arena that the University will define its future national and international success.

Professor John Hearn,
Deputy Vice-Chancellor International


The Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor International provides the University with high-level strategic leadership on international affairs. Its objectives are to:

  • Raise the international profile of the University
  • Develop relationships with peer universities, governments, industry, international agencies,
    foundations and alumni
  • Maintain the University’s reputation for academic standards and integrity
  • Promote internationalisation in research and teaching
  • Provide international services for staff and students, including regional intelligence and exchange opportunities
  • Attract new resources in terms of people, grants, scholarships and fellowships.


The International Portfolio is divided into three sections:

The Sydney World Program

This team manages off-shore academic delegations and events, VIP visits to Sydney and the International Forum and World Fellows programs. It also directs the International Leaders Program, formerly administered by the Research Institute for Asia and the Pacific (RIAP).
Visit the Sydney World Program.

International Development

This section provides strategic advice via regional development managers, with a focus on building effective partnerships and networks. It seeks funding for scholarships and research projects from governments and international agencies, and coordinates University-wide regional expert groups.

International Services

This group fosters the University’s involvement in global university networks and manages the International Program Development Fund, which supports international research projects. It provides online resources, including the International Handbook, and designs the portfolio’s communications program.



Partnerships with China

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A look at the University's deepening engagement and research links with China.

International research

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Discover some of the University's international research projects.

Australia's first university

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A short film about the University of Sydney featuring staff and students.

International Leadership

International Leadership

Find out about the University of Sydney's international engagement and our global reputation as a leader in higher education and research.