Topics covered
- Published: 28 February 2024
- Updated: 3 August 2025
As one of Australia's oldest universities, the University of Melbourne attracts thousands of students each year. Over 170 years of history, the University of Melbourne has consistently been recognized as a leading institution in Australia - a member of the Group of 8 - ensuring the highest quality in teaching, research, and providing students with the most valuable practical experience.
1. Overview
Founded in 1853, the University of Melbourne is the oldest university in Australia and the oldest in the state of Victoria. Over its long history, the university has maintained a reputation for its world-class teaching, research, and commitment to student success.
The University of Melbourne is a member of the prestigious Group of research-intensive universities in Australia and is one of three Australian universities in the Universitas 21 network and the Association of Pacific Rim Universities.
The University of Melbourne's reputation for excellence is further solidified by its membership in several prestigious organizations including the group of Australia's leading research universities, Universitas 21 and Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU)
1.1. Diverse campus:
Parkville: Situated in the northern suburb of Melbourne, Parkville is the university's main and largest campus. This is also the home to the renowned Melbourne Business School (MBS).
Burnley Campus is specialized in teaching courses related to horticulture and plant sciences.
Located in the vibrant Melbourne city center, the Southbank campus Offers programs in performing arts, attracting students passionate about the arts.
Creswick and Dookie campuses are ideal for students pursuing courses in forestry, agriculture, short courses, and specialized research programs.
Shepparton campus is the home to the Rural Clinical School, offering programs in Medicine, Dentistry, and Rural Health. This campus provides a curriculum that combines theory and practical experience, allowing students to gain clinical exposure in regional Victoria and opening doors to a range of healthcare career opportunities worldwide.
Werribee campus offers an ideal learning environment for students passionate about veterinary science.
1.2. Infrastructure at the University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne offers comprehensive facilities to support its students' academic, social, and personal needs. Here are some of the key highlights:
Residential Colleges: The university manages 12 on-campus residential colleges, providing students with a supportive and engaging living environment. Seven of these colleges are located on a crescent-shaped strip known as College Crescent, bordering the northern edge of the main Parkville campus.
Living in a residential college at the University of Melbourne is not just about having a place to stay; it's about immersing yourself in a vibrant community, participating in extracurricular activities, and enjoying various social and sporting events.
The Melbourne University Library: This world-class library houses an extensive collection of over 3.5 million physical resources, including books, DVDs, photographs, and journals. Students also have access to a variety of digital resources, including thousands of e-books and specialized academic journals.
The System Garden: Located on the northwestern side of the Parkville campus, the System Garden is a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling university environment. The garden features a diverse collection of plant species arranged around a white brick tower, reminiscent of the University of Cambridge in England.
1.3. Academic Excellence and Global Ranking
The University of Melbourne stands as a beacon of academic excellence and global recognition, consistently ranking among the world's top universities and attracting students from all corners of the globe.
The University of Melbourne is ranked #9 globally, the highest-ranked university in Australia according to the QS Sustainability Assessment 2025.
Ranked #1 in Australia and #19 globally, the University of Melbourne is a dream study destination for domestic and international students, according to the QS Ranking 2026.
As one of the universities in the Group of 8—Australia's leading multidisciplinary research universities.
Join the IDP student community
Connect with peers and student ambassadors to hear real experiences, tips, and advice about studying abroad.

2. Faculties and Programs:
The University of Melbourne offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a diverse array of disciplines, catering to students with a wide spectrum of interests and academic pursuits. With over 80 undergraduate majors and 270 postgraduate programs, the university provides students with the flexibility to explore their passions and develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen fields.
Education & Training is ranked 16th globally and number 1 in Australia.
Life Sciences & Medicine ranked 15th globally, while Natural Sciences ranked 49th, both in the world top 50.
Engineering & Technology ranked 50th globally.
Civil & Structural Engineering ranked 31st, and Mining & Mineral Engineering ranked 25th.
Computer Science & Information Systems ranked 46th, and Mechanical Engineering ranked 59th.
Electrical & Electronic Engineering ranked 63rd, and Chemical Engineering ranked 52nd in the world.
3. Study path for international students
The University of Melbourne offers a variety of pathways for international students to pursue their academic aspirations. These pathways are designed to provide students with the necessary preparation and support to succeed in their chosen programs.
Foundation (7 months - 9 months - 1.5 years): Designed for students who have completed Year 11 or 12 with a good academic record.
Undergraduate Degree (3-6 years): Open to students who have completed Year 12 with excellent academic results. Students from specialized high schools with outstanding academic records and entrance exam scores can apply directly to undergraduate programs. Moreover, students who have successfully completed the Foundation Studies program at Trinity College can also progress to undergraduate studies at the University of Melbourne.
Master's Degree (1-2 years): Available to students who have completed an undergraduate degree. Master's programs provide opportunities for further specialization and research in a chosen field.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (3-5 years): Open to students who have completed a Master's degree (3 years) or an undergraduate degree (5 years).
4. Tuition fees and Living expenses
Undergraduate tuition fees for International students: AUD 34,000 - $54,368 per year
Postgraduate tuition fees for International students: $36,000 - AUD 40,000 per year
On-campus residential colleges: AUD 19,240 per year
Location | Price/week |
Melbourne Metropolitan Area | $425 -$580 (1 - 3 Bed Flat) |
Melbourne Metropolitan Area | $500 - $525 (2 - 4 Bed House) |
Victoria Region | $260 - $425 (1 - 3 Bed Flat) |
Victoria Region | $350 - $500 (2 - 4 Bed House) |
Living Expenses: estimated Cost: AUD29,710/ năm per year
Please note that these are just estimates and actual costs may vary depending on individual circumstances.
5. Scholarships at the University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to supporting talented students from diverse backgrounds. In recognition of outstanding academic achievements and extracurricular involvement, the university offers a wide range of scholarships to assist students with their financial needs.
Eligibility Criteria:
Outstanding academic record, with high grades or equivalent qualifications.
Demonstrated leadership potential, community involvement, or exceptional talent in relevant areas.
Strong English language proficiency, meeting the minimum English language requirements for the university's programs.
Adherence to the university's values and commitment to academic integrity.
Discover your suitable courses at the University of Melbourne with IDP!
In conclusion, the University of Melbourne stands as a leading educational institution in Australia, renowned for its academic excellence, research contributions, and vibrant student life across its multiple campuses.
With IDP's expert guidance and the University of Melbourne's generous scholarship opportunities, students can pursue their academic dreams without financial constraints. These scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also serve as a recognition of academic excellence and potential.
with a counselor today!
Questions about the University of Melbourne
One account for all your study abroad needs
Create your profile and unlock a wide array of features including personalised recommendations, fast-tracked applications and much more.










