Brisbane is recognized as a leading educational hub in Australia, home to three major universities: The University of Queensland (UQ), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), and Griffith University (GU). UQ, the oldest university in Queensland, consistently ranks among the top 50 universities globally, with its campuses located in St Lucia, Herston, and Gatton. QUT, which offers innovative programs, has campuses in the vibrant central business district at Gardens Point and Kelvin Grove. Griffith University is spread across multiple campuses, including Nathan, Mount Gravatt, South Bank, and Meadowbrook.

In addition to these universities, two prominent institutions—The University of Southern Queensland (USQ) and The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC)—operate multiple campuses in the Brisbane metropolitan area, located in Springfield, Ipswich, Petrie, and Caboolture. Other universities with a presence in Brisbane include the Australian Catholic University, Central Queensland University, and James Cook University, further enriching the educational ecosystem.

Brisbane is a prime destination for international students, who make up a significant proportion of enrolments at local universities, thereby bolstering the city's economy and real estate market. In 2018 alone, over 95,000 international students were enrolled in universities and other tertiary education institutions within the City of Brisbane local government area. The majority hail from countries such as China, India, and various nations in the Asia-Pacific region.

In addition to higher education institutions, Brisbane hosts several renowned biotechnology and research facilities, including the Institute for Molecular Bioscience and the CSIRO at the University of Queensland, as well as the Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation at QUT. These institutions foster a culture of innovation and research, contributing significantly to advancements in various scientific fields.

Vocational education is also well-represented in Brisbane, with three major TAFE colleges: Brisbane North Institute of TAFE, Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE, and Southbank Institute of TAFE. The city is also home to a variety of independent tertiary providers, including the Australian College of Natural Medicine, Queensland Theological College, Brisbane College of Theology, SAE Institute, Jschool: Journalism Education & Training, JMC Academy, American College, and the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts.

Brisbane's primary and secondary education landscape is primarily managed by Education Queensland, a department of the Queensland Government. However, independent (private) schools, as well as Roman Catholic and other religious institutions, play a significant role in the educational landscape. Many of the oldest independent schools are part of the Great Public Schools Association of Queensland (GPS) for boys' schools and the Queensland Girls' Secondary Schools Sports Association (QGSSSA) for girls' schools, contributing to a diverse and competitive education system in the region.