The University of Melbourne isn’t just Australia’s top-ranked university; its a global brand. With world-class research, flexible programs, and an unbeatable city lifestyle, it attracts thousands of students from over 150 countries each year.
Over 13,000 international students study in Australia, from every continent you can think of. You get world-class degrees, English-taught courses, and access to a crazy good lifestyle. You walk out with a degree that actually matters on a resume.
And it’s not all books and lectures either. You’ll find music, street food, internships, art shows, start-up gigs and trams that will take you anywhere in the city. It’s honestly the kind of place that changes you; not just as a student, but as a person too.
What Is the Acceptance Rate at the University of Melbourne?
The acceptance rate at the University of Melbourne is about 70-80%. Yes, it is competitive, but not impossible. UniMelb evaluates applicants based on their academic performance, English proficiency, and course-specific criteria. If you meet the entry requirements and submit a complete application, your chances are strong.
Example:
- For most undergrad courses, students with 75–85% in Class 12th and a good IELTS/TOEFL score are eligible.
- For postgrad degrees, you will need a recognized bachelors with 65–75% and relevant background.
However, highly accepted courses like Law, Medicine, and Data Science are more selective and have limited seats.
How Do You Apply to the University of Melbourne as an International Student?
International students must apply online through the University of Melbourne’s application portal, depending on the level of study and intake.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Application:
- You will need your Class 12 marks or equivalent
- IELTS 6.5 or higher (TOEFL is fine too)
- Maybe a short personal statement
- Some ID docs (passport and such)
Postgraduate (Master’s) Application:
- IELTS 7.0 or above for most programs
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Your resume
- One or two recommendation letters, depending on the course
Application Deadlines:
- Semester 1 (Feb/March): Apply by 30 November (previous year)
- Semester 2 (July): Apply by 31 May
Some courses have rolling admissions, but competitive ones close early. Always double-check deadlines on the official course page.
What Courses Are Offered at the University of Melbourne?
The University of Melbourne offers 200+ courses across 10 faculties, covering arts, sciences, business, engineering, law, education, and health sciences.
Popular Undergraduate Courses:
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Design
- Bachelor of Biomedicine
- Bachelor of Music
Melbourne follows the “Melbourne Model”, meaning you study a generalist degree in undergrad and specialize in postgrad.
Top Postgraduate Programs:
- Master of Management
- Master of Computer Science
- Master of Public Health
- Master of Architecture
- Master of Engineering
- Master of Data Science
- Juris Doctor (JD) for Law
- MBA (Melbourne Business School)
Many postgraduate programs are ranked globally and are delivered 100% in English.
How Much Does It Cost to Study at the University of Melbourne?
The cost of studying at the University of Melbourne for international students ranges from AUD 35,000 to AUD 90,000 per year, depending on the course.
Here’s a breakdown:
Tuition Fees (Annual Estimate):
| Course Type | Estimated Fees (AUD/year) |
| Bachelor of Arts/Commerce | AUD 38,000 – 44,000 |
| Bachelor of Science/Design | AUD 40,000 – 47,000 |
| Engineering/IT programs | AUD 45,000 – 52,000 |
| Medical & Dentistry programs | AUD 70,000 – 90,000 |
| Master’s degrees | AUD 40,000 – 60,000+ |
Cost of Living in Melbourne (Monthly):
| Expense | Approx. Monthly Cost (AUD) |
| Accommodation | AUD 700 – 1,200 |
| Food & Groceries | AUD 300 – 500 |
| Transport | AUD 150 |
| Health Insurance | AUD 50 – 100 |
| Personal Expenses | AUD 200 – 300 |
Total living cost/year: AUD 25,000 – 35,000
Are Scholarships Available at the University of Melbourne for International Students?
Yes, the University of Melbourne offers over 1,200 scholarships for international students, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and research support.
Here are some of the most popular scholarships:
University-Level Scholarships:
Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
- 25% to 100% tuition remission
- Based on academic merit
Graduate Research Scholarships
- Full fee waiver + AUD 35,000 annual stipend
- Health insurance + relocation grant
Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholarship
- Up to 50% tuition support for high-performing Bachelor’s students
Faculty & Course-Specific Awards:
- Melbourne Business School MBA Scholarships
- School of Engineering International Graduate Scholarships
- Faculty of Law Dean’s International Scholarship
Most scholarships are automatically considered during the application — no separate form is needed unless mentioned.
What Are the Intakes and Application Deadlines at the University of Melbourne?
There are two main intakes: Semester 1 in Feb/March and Semester 2 in July.
The deadlines go like this:
- Semester 1: apply by Nov 30 (year before)
- Semester 2: apply by May 31
Now remember, competitive courses sometimes close earlier. So if you’re aiming for something like Master of Data Science or Law, get your stuff in early.
Also, courses may not be available in both intakes. Always check the specific course page. Some only start in February.
What Is Student Life Like at the University of Melbourne?
Campus life at the University of Melbourne is diverse, student-driven, and well-connected to city life.
Located in the heart of Melbourne, one of the world’s most liveable cities, the university blends tradition and modernity; lecture halls, libraries, research centres, and performance spaces, all within walking distance.
Here’s what makes it fun:
- Over 200 clubs and societies
- Career fairs, start-up incubators, global events
- Support centres for academic help, health, and housing
- Multicultural festivals, food trucks, film nights
- And don’t forget the footy (Aussie Rules!) and live music scene
If you’re a bit introverted, no worries. There are quiet spaces, study zones, and student lounges where you can chill. And everyone’s new at some point; people do make friends, eventually.
How Does the University of Melbourne Rank Globally?
The University of Melbourne ranks #13 globally in QS World University Rankings 2025 and is Australia’s highest-ranked university.
| Ranking System | Global Rank (2025) |
| QS World Rankings | #13 |
| Times Higher Education | #37 |
| US News Global | #27 |
Top-Ranked Subjects:
- Law
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Education
- Business & Management
- Computer Science
Conclusion
If you’re dreaming big and aiming for a university with global recognition, diverse student life, and real-world career outcomes- Melbourne is the place. It’s academically challenging, but the support system, research exposure, and city lifestyle make it a full package.
Yes, it is expensive but with the right course, scholarships, and post-study work rights, the investment often pays off.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the acceptance rate at the University of Melbourne?
The University of Melbourne has an estimated acceptance rate of 70 to 80 percent for international students.
2. Is the University of Melbourne hard to get into for international students?
Not really. If you meet the academic and English language requirements, you stand a good chance of getting in.
3. What are the English language requirements for the University of Melbourne?
Most courses require an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 or a TOEFL iBT score above 90.
4. How do I apply to the University of Melbourne as an international student?
You can apply directly through the university’s online portal or via authorized agents, depending on the course level.
5. What is the application deadline for the University of Melbourne?
Semester 1 applications close by November 30, and Semester 2 deadlines usually fall around May 31.
6. How much does it cost to study at the University of Melbourne?
Tuition fees range from AUD 35,000 to AUD 90,000 per year, depending on the program, plus living expenses.
7. What are the living costs for students in Melbourne?
International students typically spend AUD 25,000 to 35,000 per year on accommodation, food, transport, and personal needs.
8. Are there scholarships available for international students at Melbourne?
Yes, the university offers over 1,200 scholarships including full tuition waivers and living stipends.
9. What is the Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship?
It’s a merit-based award that covers 25% to 100% of tuition fees for high-achieving international undergraduates.
10. Can international students work part-time in Melbourne while studying?
Yes, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester and unlimited hours during holidays.
11. What are the best courses at the University of Melbourne?
Popular programs include Arts, Commerce, Law, Engineering, Data Science, Medicine, and Architecture.
12. Is the University of Melbourne good for postgraduate studies?
Yes, it’s globally ranked and offers strong Master’s and PhD programs across most disciplines, especially in research fields.
13. What are the requirements for a Master’s degree at the University of Melbourne?
You’ll need a recognized bachelor’s degree, English proficiency, academic transcripts, and a statement of purpose.
14. Does the University of Melbourne offer full scholarships for PhD students?
Yes, PhD students can receive full tuition fee waivers and annual living stipends through Graduate Research Scholarships.
15. How competitive is the University of Melbourne MBA program?
It’s highly competitive and requires a strong academic record, professional experience, and high GMAT scores.
16. What is the “Melbourne Model” of education?
It’s a flexible learning structure where undergrad students study a broad degree and specialize in postgraduate studies.
17. How many international students are at the University of Melbourne?
Over 13,000 international students from more than 150 countries study at the university.
18. Can I apply to the University of Melbourne without IELTS?
Only in limited cases. Most courses still require IELTS or TOEFL unless you qualify for an exemption through prior English education.