Universities in Melbourne, Australia, have marked their existence by offering quality education for centuries. The city is packed with an immense passion for culture, arts, research, and development and welcomes students globally to experience its uniqueness. Seven universities in Australia are featured in the QS World Rankings 2024, thus making it the most desirable study destination for international students. The excellent quality of living and affordable cost make Melbourne a perfect place to live and study. In this blog, we will explore some of the best universities in Melbourne for international students.
Five Reasons to Study in Melbourne
Melbourne is a great location for international students due to its wide range of programs, academic atmosphere, and interdisciplinary environment. It uplifts students' educational journey as well as improves their overall personality. Here are some of the benefits of choosing an Australian university in Melbourne for your international education.
1. Melbourne is home to the best universities worldwide
The University of Melbourne ranks #14 in the QS World Ranking 2024 and #34 in the THE World University Ranking 2023.
2. Safest Place in the World
Melbourne scored 7.296 out of 10 based on data from the resident's quality of living. The city's people are broad-minded and recognized for their competitiveness and lovable personality.
3. Diverse student environment
The city is boosted with a culturally diverse education system with students worldwide.
4. Excellent Student Support
Studying in Melbourne can be a boon for most international students. It offers various assets and support services, like language learning facilities, social connections, networking, etc., to find better jobs in the future. It is ideal for studying master's and Ph.D.
5. Employment Opportunities
Universities in Melbourne for international students offer a world-class focus on education and employment opportunities. The economic center connects the students with endless options and networking opportunities, internships, events, and more.
Best Universities in Melbourne for International Students
Melbourne comprises nine renowned public universities with four institutions with the university and TAFE division (Technical and Further Education). The city offers over 600 programs across disciplines like engineering, ICT, medical research, IT, biotechnology, human resource management, etc.
University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is a public research university established in 1853, with a QS Worls’s University Ranking of 14th in 2024. It is one of the highest-ranked universities in the world, with its main campus in Parkville and an acceptance rate of 70 to 80%. The university offers more than 89 programs, including design, commerce, fine arts, agriculture, biomedicine, etc.
Educational programs are inclined toward students’ personal and professional development. The start-year intake starts in February and March, and the mid-year intake begins in July and August. Some notable alumni are - Cate Blanchett, Harold Holt, and David Warren.
- Courses to consider - computer science, architecture, accountancy, arts and science.
- Entry requirements (general) - Excellent academic background with qualifying scores in SAT/ACT/PTE/GMAT/GRE/TOEFL/IELTS.
- Average international fees (per year) - 40, 000 AUD
Monash University
Monash University is the second-best university for international students in Melbourne. Established in 1958 with a QS ranking of 42nd in 2023, the university is dedicated to focusing on innovation and ongoing development. In addition, Monash University has been recognized as one of the top universities in Melbourne for international students in Pharmacy and Pharmacology. Monash has an acceptance rate of around 40%.
- Courses to consider - Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Engineering - Mineral and Mining, Information Technology, and Law.
- Entry requirements (general) - academic solid background with qualifying SAT/ IELTS/PTE/TOEFL iBT/GRE/GMAT scores.
- Average international fees - 37500 AUD
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University (RMIT)
RMIT University was established in 1992 with a QS world ranking of 140th (globally) and 11th (in Australia) in 2024. The public research university is accredited by TEQSA and is affiliated with ATN, ASAIHL, and OUN. The university has an acceptance rate of 45%, and notable alumni include Lydia Lassila, Andrew Stockdale, and Travis Fimmel.
- Courses to consider - Education, Architecture, Art and Design, Information Systems, and Computer Science.
- Entry requirements (general) - Excellent academic background with qualifying ATAR/GMAT/TOEFL iBT/PTE/IELTS scores.
- Average international fees - 31000 AUD
La Trobe University
La Trobe University is one of the best universities in Australia for master's study. The university was established in 1964 with an affiliation with Universities Australia Innovative Research Universities (IRU). According to the QS World Rankings 2024, the university ranks #242 with an acceptance rate of 100%. The Online MBA is one of the best programs in Australia, ranking 32 globally the start-year intake starts in February and March, and the mid-year intake begins in July and August. Notable alumni include Mr. Tim Plant, Michelle Gallaher, and Tirzah Janssen.
- Courses to consider - MBA
- Entry requirements (general) - Graduated from a recognized university with qualifying GMAT/GRE/IELTS/PTE/TOEFL iBT scores and academic marks.
- Average international fees - 8600 AUD
Victoria University
Victoria University is a public research university established in 1991, providing courses in higher education and technical and further education (TAFE). According to the QS World Rankings 2024, the university ranks #711-720 with an acceptance rate of 64%. Besides, it offers vocational education and training programs to provide students with many opportunities for a Ph.D. in Australia. The start-year intake starts in January and February, and the mid-year intake begins in August and September. Some notable alumni include - Andrew Gaze, Tammy Lobato, and Simon Garlick.
- Courses to consider - Arts and Humanities, Law and Justice, Engineering and Science.
- Entry requirements (general) - Required UG/PG degree with qualifying GRE/TOEFL iBT/SAT/GMAT/PTE/IELTS scores.
- Average international fees - 20000 AUD
Other top institutions in Melbourne include:
- Deakin University - Top 1% of universities globally
- Charles Darwin University - 6th nationwide for an undergraduate starting salary
- Swinburne University of Technology- 296th in the QS World Rankings
- Australian Catholic University - rated Generation Y’s top 40 universities
- Central Queensland University is the first and only changemaker campus by the Ashoka U social innovation group
The high-quality courses in Australia aim to navigate through essential theories, transformative technologies, and practical applications, offering students overall growth and development.
Australia Scholarships for International Students
Many scholarships are available for International students to provide affordable education from top universities in Melbourne. These scholarship funds provide an average monthly stipend, tuition fees, accommodation charges, health insurance, etc.
Deakin International Scholarships
Deakin International Scholarships is available for all students. The university offers 25% of the tuition fee as a scholarship. Students willing to avail must submit the scholarship application one month before starting studies at Deakin University. The Deakin STEM Scholarship is available for UG and PG students with science and engineering backgrounds. Students can receive 20% of the tuition fee through this scholarship.
Melbourne Research Scholarships
Melbourne Research Scholarships are fully funded scholarships for master's and doctoral research students. The scholarship offers a living allowance of 48546 AUD per year with a complete fee offset, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), single membership, and many other benefits.
Charles Darwin University Scholarship
It is a fully-funded scholarship for international students studying UG, PG, PhD, or training. The partial and full-funded scholarships cover up to 50% of the tuition fee.
Study in Melbourne
Contact SI-Australia to learn more about Australia's upcoming academic year's admission process and courses.
Studying in Melbourne FAQ
What is the average cost of living for universities in Melbourne, Australia?
The average cost of living in the Universities in Melbourne, Australia, can range from 20000 AUD per year, including expenses like accommodation, food, and transportation.
Are international students able to secure part-time jobs in Melbourne while pursuing their education?
Australia is known for its wide range of job and career opportunities in several disciplines, like healthcare, arts, law, business management, engineering, science, and education. Therefore, finding a part-time job in Melbourne is easy, as an Australian Student Visa allows you to work 20 hours per week.
How can international students contact universities in Melbourne?
Students willing to pursue their education in Australian universities can contact SI-Australia for free consultation and career advice.
Are there any full scholarships for international students in Melbourne?
Yes, many scholarships available in Melbourne universities are fully funded. Some of them are Deakin International Scholarships, TAFE Scholarships, and Charles Darwin Scholarships, to name a few.
What is Melbourne ranked for international students?
Melbourne ranks 4th globally in the latest QS Best Students Cities Ranking. The city is known for its remarkable educational excellence, quality of living, and abundant career growth.
Is it easy to get PR in Melbourne for international students?
Yes, students who complete their master’s can get PR quickly in Melbourne. However, they must fulfill specific requirements, such as English proficiency and a good academic background.
