Each year, more than 235,000 international students choose Melbourne as their study-abroad destination, attracted by its vibrant arts scene, top-tier education, and renowned cafe culture. The city is home to some of the world's best universities, known for their quality education and comprehensive extracurricular activities that promote holistic student development.
Additionally, Melbourne offers numerous internship opportunities with both national and international brands, enhancing students' career prospects. With nearly 40% of the city's population being foreign-born, Melbourne is recognized as one of the most livable cities in the world. However, with so many excellent institutions to choose from, finding the right university to match your academic and professional goals can be daunting.
This blog aims to guide you through the top 10 universities in Melbourne, focusing on those that offer a blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and personalized support for international students.
Melbourne is Australia's top study destination for international students. There are several fascinating aspects of living and studying in the city, from world-class education and sports culture to street art and year-round events. Here are the top reasons why you should choose Melbourne as your study destination:
Academic excellence - Melbourne’s universities are renowned for their academic rigor and commitment to delivering a holistic education. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, three of Melbourne's universities are ranked among the top 100 globally.
Diverse Culture - Melbourne is a city of diverse cultures and home to people from more than 140 countries. Therefore Melbourne has become the most desirable city among international students due to its multicultural and welcoming environment. The city also hosts countless festivals and events celebrating different cultures.
Affordable living costs- Compared to other global study destinations like New York or London, Melbourne has a more affordable cost of living. In the 2023 Mercer Cost of Living survey, Melbourne ranked 58th out of 221 cities, making it a financially suitable city for international students.
Career opportunities - Based on the Time Higher Education Survey, most graduates from top Melbourne universities are being employed full-time in top brands across the world . The high employment rates indicate the strong demand for skilled graduates and the city’s support for its international student community.
Multiple range of programs - Institutions in Melbourne offer a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, technology, arts, humanities, and sciences. This diversity ensures that you can find the perfect program to match your academic passion and career aspirations.
Safe City - Melbourne is considered one of the safest cities in the world. A survey by the Safe Cities Index in 2024 ranked the city for its overall safety, thanks to its health security, digital security, infrastructure security, and personal security.
A hub of arts - Melbourne is also known as the cultural capital of Australia. The city hosts many theater and opera performances, concerts, and exhibitions. The National Gallery of Victoria and the Melbourne Museum offer insights into human history through various exhibits. The city also boasts beautiful architecture, including Victorian-style buildings, Flinders Street Station, and the State Library Victoria.
Criteria for Choosing University
As an international student planning to study in Melbourne, you will face many exciting opportunities. However, choosing the right university is crucial for your academic and professional success. While all Melbourne universities offer exemplary education, considering certain factors will help you evaluate and narrow down your options. Below are some criteria to consider while choosing the best university in Melbourne:
Academic reputation
When deciding which university to enroll in, analyze the academic reputation of the institution. Different ranking systems, such as QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education World University Rankings, can provide insights. These systems evaluate institutions based on research output, citations, career outcomes, teaching quality, and staff-student ratios.
Campus Culture
The culture and atmosphere of a university directly correlate with its history and the kind of evolution it has undergone each academic year. Choosing the right university can shape your future positively, influencing your academic life. Make sure to visit the university's website to understand its curriculum and gather information by directly interacting with representatives.
QILT - Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching
QILT is an effective measure introduced by the Australian government that provides detailed student feedback. It covers primary areas, including teaching techniques, employment rates, student satisfaction, and graduation rates. Analyzing year-wise QILT data for specific universities can help you make an informed decision.
University Networks
While considering your academic interests, be sure to look out for the network opportunities that universities offer. Some of the important university networks in Melbourne include:
Innovative Research Universities (IRU)
The IRU is a group of seven top universities in Australia, contributing to excellence in higher education in teaching and research. The universities in Melbourne included in the IRU are La Trobe University and Charles Darwin University.
Australian Technology Network (ATN)
ATN represents five of the world's top universities excelling in innovation and enterprise. These institutions have strong collaborations with leading industry partners, providing students with practical exposure to solve real-life problems and develop decision-making and critical thinking skills. In Melbourne, RMIT University is part of this network.
Top 10 Universities in Melbourne
Melbourne is a learning haven for international students seeking a world-class learning experience amidst a dynamic, vibrant atmosphere. With its renowned universities, the city offers a comprehensive range of academic programs that suit a wide spectrum of career aspirations. Let’s delve into the top universities in Melbourne for international students:
1. University of Melbourne
University of Melbourne, Parkville: Renowned for its academic excellence and research prowess
Global Ranking: 13
Location: Parkville
Campus Life: The institution offers a vibrant atmosphere with shops, cafes, and sports venues. Surrounded by historic buildings, the campus provides a welcoming environment for international students.
Academic Excellence: Boasting a rich history of nearly two centuries, the university is part of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight.
Popular Programs: Computer science, health, accounts, arts, science, architecture
Career Prospects: Students have excellent pathways to explore their interests through internships, workshops, and conferences.
Notable Alumni: Gillian Triggs, Anna Funder, Stephanie Alexander.
Student Support Services: Offers activities that build foundational skills for academic development.
Scholarships:
Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship: $10,000 tuition fee remission for first-year undergraduate students.
Melbourne International Scholarships for Excellence: $30,000 tuition fee remission per year for up to three years for undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Melbourne International Research Scholarship: Up to $35,000 per year for two years (master's) or three years (doctoral).
La Trobe University, Melbourne: Dedicated to research and innovation, with a focus on sustainability and regional development.
Global Ranking: 217
Location: Melbourne
Campus Life: Offers excellent facilities across six campuses to ensure world-class education and athletic prowess.
Academic Excellence: Provides hands-on experience and connects students with brilliant minds, making it an ideal choice for aspirants to excel in their field.
Popular Programs: Arts and humanities, business and management, engineering and technology, life sciences and medicine, natural sciences.
Career Prospects: Enables students to acquire professional skills with technical knowledge, exposing them to industry and securing their dream careers.
Notable Alumni: Priyanka Radhakrishnan, Ronald Syme, Fred Hollows.
Student Support Services: Aids in defining actionable career goals to align with abilities.
Scholarships:
La Trobe High Achiever Scholarship: Provides up to a 25% reduction in total course fees for selected courses for high-achieving international students.
Monash University, Melbourne: Emphasis on research excellence and global outlook with international collaboration and cross-disciplinary research.
Global Ranking: 37
Location: Melbourne
Campus Life: Embraces a vibrant, multicultural environment that promotes diversity, equality, and inclusivity.
Academic Excellence: Focuses on driving students to make a positive difference through community engagement, environmental responsibility, and global citizenship.
Popular Programs: Business, Accounting, Law, Creative, Performing and Visual Arts, Engineering, Health, Information Technology.
Career Prospects: Offers invaluable career counseling to explore skills and values, helping students achieve professional aspirations.
Notable Alumni: Nick Cave, Peter Carey, David Williamson.
Student Support Services: Provides support to make informed career choices and build powerful connections. Scholarships:
Monash University Google Excellence Scholarship: 50% tuition fee for the entire undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
Monash University Dean Scholarships: Up to 25% tuition fee remission for undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne: Prioritize industry-relevant education and applied research with elite entrepreneurship.
Global Ranking: =291
Location: Melbourne
Campus Life: The Prahran campus is a hub for design, creating a vibrant, creative community with a lively atmosphere, shopping district, and nightlife.
Academic Excellence: Consistently ranks high in learner engagement, quality of curriculum, and pedagogy.
Popular Programs: Physics and Astronomy, Materials Science, Civil and Structural Engineering, Architecture.
Career Prospects: Coaches offer confidence-building exercises to prepare students for internships and jobs post-graduation.
Notable Alumni: Gillian Armstrong, Michael Leunig, Jo Seijka.
Student Support Services: Works with administrators and community members to foster meaningful industry relationships.
Scholarships:
Swinburne International Scholarship: Merit-based, offering 20% off on the standard course fee for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Swinburne International Pathway Scholarship: Offers AUD 3000 off total tuition fees for the foundational year.
Australian Catholic University: Special focus on justice and ethical leadership through value-based education and community engagement.
Global Ranking: 901-905
Location: Melbourne
Campus Life: Offers clubs, study groups, volunteer organizations, and cultural events to foster meaningful student-mentor relationships.
Academic Excellence: Emphasizes research and innovation to prepare graduates for leadership and community service.
Popular Programs: Arts and Humanities, Business and Management, Engineering and Technology, Life Sciences and Medicine, Social Sciences and Management.
Career Prospects: Collaborates with top industries nationwide to build lucrative career paths for students.
Notable Alumni: Bronwen Neil, Ben Cummins, Deborah O’Neil.
Student Support Services: Provides a critical support network to improve mental and physical well-being.
Scholarships:
Global Excellence Scholarship: Tuition fee waiver of up to AUD 2500 per semester for business and information technology courses.
ACU International Student Scholarship: Covers half of the fees for full-time courses.
Holmes Institute of Technology: Known for their stone industry partnerships through vocational education and training, preparing students for successful careers.
Global Ranking: N/A
Location: Melbourne
Campus Life: Features various academic, cultural, political, and religious clubs and organizations to help students meet new people and step out of their comfort zone.
Academic Excellence: Partners with other universities to offer opportunities to explore new cultures and cultivate new ways of thinking.
Popular Programs: Arts and Law, Social Sciences, Journalism, Media, Business and Economics, Accounting and Finance, Management.
Career Prospects: Provides access to industry connections, practical learning, and strong career outcomes for international students.
Notable Alumni: Dr. Sam Massey, Greg Holloway, Maggie Garrett.
Student Support Services: Offers resources for improving writing, reading, mental health care, accommodations, and more.
Scholarships: -N/A
Admission Requirements: TOEFL: 75, IELTS: 6.0
10. Federation University
Federation University: Focus on industry-relevant education and practical learning.
Global Ranking: -791-800
Location: Ballarat
Campus Life: Boasts top-notch facilities and a beachside ambiance, encouraging students to explore ideas in a dynamic environment.
Academic Excellence: Programs are designed to equip students with knowledge and skills for the digital era, promoting innovation and collaboration.
Popular Programs: Business, Accounting, Law, Creative, Performing and Visual Arts, Engineering, Health and Information Technology.
Career Prospects: Emphasizes world-integrated learning and practical experience through internships, placements, and industry projects.
Notable Alumni: Steve Bracks, Emma Kearney, Henry Sutton.
Student Support Services: Provides specialized service units with resources and initiatives to achieve academic goals and enrich campus life.
Scholarships:
Federation Pathways Scholarship: 20% of annual tuition fees for diploma or foundation courses.
Federation Excellence Scholarship: 20% tuition fee reduction for students maintaining a GPA of 5.
International Student Accommodation Support Scholarship: AUD 1,000 per semester for accommodation.
Comparative Analysis of Melbourne's Top Universities
Melbourne is an ideal study destination for aspiring experts across a broad range of disciplines. Here's an overview of the comparative analysis of the top universities in the city.
Leading a life in Melbourne as a student will give you a wholesome experience in every way. As an international student, you will get added perks in the cultural city of Australia. Here are some reflective aspects that will give you a diverse experience in the city.
A friendly and relaxed atmosphere—The city has a harmonious blend of people who respect different cultural and religious values. Moreover, the campus culture and other learning opportunities are well-suited for students in Melbourne.
Multicultural exchange - Melbourne hosts numerous schools from across the world, providing valuable opportunities for students to network and learn about other cultures. Most students appreciate how the city embodies its policy of cultural diversity in food, events, and parties.
Great art and music scenes - Melbourne is well-known for its art and live music scenes. These aspects are preferred by people who love the underground culture, where you can join clubs or societies to witness many large international shows. The performers at such events are mostly new entrants, which encourages aspiring artists to be a part of them in the future.
Discounts on events and exhibits - It is not possible for every student to afford the luxuries and high-end activities in Melbourne, especially on a student's budget. However, the silver lining is that you will get major student discounts for events and exhibitions, allowing you to enjoy your interests without breaking the bank. Some top attractions in the city are the Australian Music Vault, Victoria State Library, Bendigo Art Gallery, and more.
Sports clubs - Sport is also a significant part of Melbournian culture. The city is well-known for its major sporting events every year, including the Australian Open tennis tournament, the Formula One Grand Prix, the Spring Racing Carnival, and the Boxing Day Test match. If you are a sports enthusiast, you can join local sports clubs and facilities.
Festivals and entertainment - International students studying in Melbourne can keep themselves engaged with a wide range of activities and events. There are year-round festivals that allow you to explore more about the local cultures and traditions. Some of them are the Melbourne International Arts Festival, Melbourne International Film Festival, Jazz Festival, Comedy Festival, and Melbourne Fringe, among others.
Living in Melbourne: Tips and Tricks
If you are a student who has just arrived or is planning to fly to Melbourne, here are some effective hacks to make it an excellent experience.
Plan your finances - Studying in Melbourne can be a bit expensive, so it is important to plan your finances accordingly. Research the cost of living in your chosen city, including accommodation, transportation, food, and other living expenses. You can also consider applying for financial aid and scholarships to ease the burden.
Accommodation - The first challenge you might face in Melbourne is securing accommodation, which is the biggest expense. Melbourne offers a variety of housing options. You can choose a university dormitory, shared apartments, or other options that suit your budget. The average cost for accommodation per month will be around $450 to $560, depending on the property type you choose.
Food - While you can dine out in Melbourne, make sure to enjoy your meals within your budget. It will roughly take around $140 to $280for food per month in Melbourne. You can explore the Queen Victoria Market, where you will find fresh and budget-friendly bites. Moreover, the city hosts countless food festivals throughout the year where you can find delectable treats at affordable prices.
Transportation - Melbourne has a reasonably priced public transportation system, which is also a convenient way to explore the city. It will cost you around $30 to $60 for public transportation. If you want to opt for cycling, you can find various bike lanes and rental services, allowing you to enjoy the city’s picturesque streets with ease.
Phone and internet services - Upon arriving in the city, it is important to connect with phone and internet services. You can choose a landline that is reliable for off-campus living. Prepaid mobile plans can give you better expenditure control and flexibility. However, you can also opt for a mobile contract, where you pay depending on your usage and needs. The average expenses for phone and internet services will be from $15 to $30.
Get your health insurance - Every international student in Melbourne is required to have health insurance while pursuing their studies in the city. It will help you cover any medical expenses you may incur during your stay. However, before you apply, ensure you understand the terms and coverage of your chosen policy.
Take advantage of student support services - Every institution in Melbourne offers a wide range of support services for international students, including language classes, orientation programs, and academic support. You can make the best out of these services, which will help you adjust to the new environment and achieve success in your academics.
Build a support network - It is also important to build a support network within the city. This includes fellow students, college staff, or even members of your local community. You can also join clubs and societies, attend social events, and get involved in the community to meet new people and make meaningful connections.
Set up a local bank account - It is extremely important to ensure that you can smoothly pay for things while you are here without incurring any international transfer charges or delays. Therefore, be sure to set up a student bank account with a local bank.
Tips to Save Money in Melbourne
Here are some additional tips to save money as a student in Melbourne:
Student discounts - Your student ID card can be your golden ticket to better savings. You will get student discounts at local businesses, cinemas, public transport, and even certain grocery stores. You can also join a student union or association, which will provide even more exclusive deals for members.
Part-time work - Australia’s student visa allows international students to work part-time during their academic journey. You are entitled to work for 48 hours per fortnight, which equates to 24 hours per week. It will help you cover your living expenses while gaining invaluable professional experience. The city’s strong economic landscape makes it easy for you to find employment in your desired industry.
Career Opportunities Post-Graduation
Upon completing your global academic journey with a transformative experience in Melbourne, it's time to unlock the doors to professional success. The career path in Melbourne often begins with internships. The city, renowned for its high-quality education, provides diverse and valuable internship programs and networking opportunities to secure a lucrative career in the future.
Internship Opportunities
Melbourne offers a diverse range of internship programs tailored to meet the unique needs of international students spanning various sectors. From engineering and IT to business and healthcare, internships align with students’ academic interests. These programs empower aspirants to craft their work experience, refine their skills, and connect with their long-term career goals.
For instance, the University of Melbourne offers a 'Global Talent Program,' designed to immerse students in real-world challenges through collaboration with industry leaders. On the other hand, Monash University offers international internship programs to provide a structured platform for students to engage in hands-on experience within their respective fields.
Build Valuable Professional Network
Every person you meet during your internship program could be a potential connection. They could become a mentor or a colleague in the future, with the power to provide you with a reference or recommendation. The connections you build during your internship will be the foundation for your career transition phase. These connections also offer insights and advice and can even shape your career trajectory.
Exploration of Employability
Internship programs assist students in going beyond classroom learning to working in a specific industry. The opportunity to experience a practical work environment gives you a whole new perspective on the corporate world. It allows you to test your skills and knowledge with guidance from mentors. Real-world exploration helps in discovering your strengths and builds confidence in your abilities. This way, you can gain insights into various roles, helping you make informed decisions about your future career.
Conclusion
Melbourne has some of the most prestigious institutions in the world, where a collaborative academic environment and an interdisciplinary setting foster students' growth on all levels - academically, professionally, and personally. The city also boasts a student-friendly ambiance with diverse social and cultural imprints, such as events, workshops, student fairs, and other activities. The academic programs focus on research, rigorous coursework, and great faculty mentorship.
They also offer a plethora of career development paths, including international alliances, exchange programs, agreements, scholarships, and internships. As you begin your academic journey in Melbourne, the diverse range of opportunities available to international students gives you an exciting prospect for your future. With careful planning, strategic application, and unwavering determination, you can secure the financial support that will make your dream to study abroad in Melbourne a reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main advantages of studying in Melbourne compared to other cities?
Melbourne is considered the best study destination over other cities for international students due to their exemplary educational resources, practical exposure, top-ranked universities, and more. The city has a diverse and welcoming environment for students from around the world. Moreover, students in Melbourne can enjoy excellent transport links, tolerance and inclusion, good dining options, better employment opportunities, and sustainability.
Are there opportunities for extracurricular activities and clubs at Melbourne universities?
Of course, every leading university in Melbourne focuses on the extracurricular interests of students. For instance, you will find more than 200 clubs and societies at the University of Melbourne, where you can explore your interests in music, culture, politics, spirituality, and more. Simply register your account on the website and gain access to memberships in various clubs and societies.
What housing options are typically available for students in Melbourne?
Universities in Melbourne provide accommodation facilities for students upon their arrival in the city. However, you can also explore other housing options available for students. For instance, you can find apartments conveniently located near campus with 24-hour support to help you build your network. You can also explore private rental accommodation, homestays, and more that suit your budget.
How does the cost of living in Melbourne compare to other major cities for students?
Melbourne is a more affordable study destination for students compared to other global cities. In 2024, the cost of living survey ranked the city in the 42nd position as the most expensive city in the world. Various expenses make up the cost of living in Melbourne, including tuition, accommodation, travel, health insurance, utilities, entertainment, personal expenses, food, and groceries.
Are students allowed to work part-time in Melbourne?
Absolutely! International students in Melbourne with a valid visa are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight when the course is in session. There is no limit on working hours when the course is not in session, such as during semester breaks and holidays. However, if you are a graduate researcher, you can work unlimited hours even when the course is in session.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.
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