Best Universities in Melbourne for International Students

Melbourne is the most populous city in the state (Victoria), with more than 40% of its population being overseas residents. This vibrant city is  home to world-class universities and offers numerous opportunities to overseas students, making it an ideal place for studying. 

 

So, are you also planning to study in Melbourne, Australia, but don’t know which university to choose? Or are you confused about whether your desired course is offered by your chosen university? If so, you have come to the right place. 

 

In this blog, I’ve discussed the best universities in Melbourne, Australia, along with the courses and learning opportunities they provide to international students. This guide will help you make an informed decision about your education and future career.

 

List of Best Universities in Melbourne for International Students

Melbourne is undoubtedly one of the most popular study locations in the world. It is ranked as one of Australia’s top 5 student cities for international students. The city provides students with universities in the world, practical knowledge, internships and various part-time job opportunities.

Here is the list of the top 8 Melbourne universities for international students:

• University of Melbourne
• Monash University
• RMIT University
• Deakin University
• Swinburne University of Technology
• La Trobe University
• Victoria University
• Australian Catholic University

 

Below is the detailed overview of each university. Understand it thoroughly and then apply to a university that best suits your interests and preferences. Contact us if you are looking for customized professional help.

 

1. University of Melbourne

 

 

It is the top institution in Australia and is ranked as the 33rd best university globally, according to the QS World University Rankings. This university is home to approximately 65,000 students, including 30,000 international students from more than 130 countries. 

Learning opportunities for students

The university has designed its curriculum based on the best worldwide universities. Before deciding on a major, students are given a year to investigate a variety of introductory courses. Moreover, the University of Melbourne offers several scholarship options to facilitate international students.

The university offers approximately 200 undergraduate courses and more than 400 postgraduate programmes to international students.

Top Courses offered by the University of Melbourne

The top ten courses at the University of Melbourne are:

• Arts and Humanities.
• Business and Management.
• Education and Development studies.
• Geography, Law, Psychology.
• Life sciences and medicine.
• Social policy and administration.
• Social sciences and management.

 

2. Monash University

 

 

Monash University is ranked as the 57th best university in the world according to the QS World University Ranking. The university has four campuses across Australia and has become a global center for research.

Learning opportunities for students

Monash University is a relatively young research university with more than 86,000 students. With more than 100 partners worldwide, the institution provides access to numerous research partnerships, international opportunities, and collaborations. The university’s greatest feature is its ability to prepare students for the global workforce.

 

You can begin your degree programme in Australia and finish it at other partner universities in nations such as Malaysia, China, India, or Italy. There are 214 postgraduate and 127 undergraduate programmes available at Monash University.

Top Courses offered by Monash University

Monash University ranks top in:

• Pharmacy and Pharmacology.
• Materials Science.
• Chemical engineering.
• Chemistry.
• Mineral and Mining.
• Information Technology
• Statistics and Operational Research.

 

3. RMIT University

 

 

The university is ranked as the 190th best university in the world in the QS World University Rankings. RMIT has three campuses in Melbourne, one in Spain, two in Vietnam and one office in Indonesia. It also offers several programmes via its partners in Europe and Asia. 

Learning opportunities for students

Moreover, the institution is home to almost 97,000 students, with 18,000 overseas students. RMIT is famous for its focus on design and technology. The institution provides students with the opportunity to work on cooperative projects with business executives. 

Students will have the opportunity to work with some of the top companies in the world through RMIT’s internship and work experience. The university also provides a number of scholarships to both domestic and international students. RMIT offers approximately 108 undergraduate and 141 postgraduate courses.

Top Courses offered by RMIT University

Here are some of the popular courses offered by this university:

• Aerospace Engineering.
• Architecture / Built Environment.
• Art and Design.
• Communication and Media Studies.
• Food Science and Technology.
• Library Management.

 

4. Deakin University

 

 

Deaken University is ranked at number 266 globally according to the  QS World University Ranking. It is a public university located in Geelong, just outside of Melbourne. It is the first Australian university to offer distant learning.

Learning opportunities for students

The university is home to more than 61,000 students. It is famous for its research, teaching and innovation. The institution provides modern technology and cutting-edge learning facilities to guarantee that its students are ready for the workforce of the future.

 

Deakin University’s curriculum equips students with practical skills and real-world knowledge to help them compete in the global workforce. The institution also has more than 150 clubs and societies to encourage students to participate in extracurricular activities.

Top Courses offered by Deakin University

Popular courses offered by Deakin University are: 

• Arts and Humanities
• Communication and Media Studies
• Architecture and Built Environment
• Engineering and Technology
• Life Sciences and Medicine

 

5. Swinburne University of Technology

 

 

Swinburne University of Technology is ranked 296th in the world by the QS World University Rankings, placing it in the top 3% of universities worldwide. It is one of the best colleges in Melbourne and welcomes approximately 35,000 students.

Learning opportunities for students

Swinburne focuses on science, technology, and innovation. These courses provide students with exposure to the industry, enabling them to develop professional skills in addition to academic learning. Swinburne University has partnered with various international businesses and organisations to provide work experience to students.

 

It offers 212 postgraduate programmes, including MBAs and PhDs, and more than 160 undergraduate programmes to students. 

Top Courses offered by Swinburne University of Technology

Below are some of the most famous programs offered by Swinburne University of Technology:

• Art and Design
• Physics and Astronomy and Engineering—Civil Engineering and Structural
• Communications and Media Studies
• Materials Science
• Psychology and Engineering—Electrical and Electronic

 

6. La Trobe University

 

 

La Trobe University ranks 316th in the QS World University Rankings and has six campuses across Victoria. The university serves approximately 36,000 students, including 7,000 international students from 110 countries.

Learning opportunities for students

The institution gives students the chance to conduct research on a range of scientific, technological, and health-related themes. It is a pioneer in research on issues like biodiversity conservation, global food insecurity, disease prevention, etc. 

 

Students at La Trobe not only thrive academically but also have the opportunity to develop leadership, critical thinking, flexibility, creativity, and teamwork. Moreover, it offers a wide range of courses, including 93 undergraduate and 77 postgraduate programs.

 

The university prioritises diversity and social impact. It is named one of the top 20 universities in the world for its support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals by the Times Higher Education (2020).

Top Courses offered by La Trobe University

Top courses that you can learn at La Trobe University include the following:

• Archaeology
• Linguistics 
• Nursing programs.
• Sport programs.
• Masters in Business Administration
• Bachelor of Business Administration
• Masters in Engineering Management

 

7. Victoria University

 

 

It is ranked in the top 750 universities worldwide. Every year, this university welcomes more than 40,000 students from all around the world. It has nine campuses in Melbourne and one in Sydney. 

Learning opportunities for students

The fundamental disciplines include computer science, engineering, technology, education, and sport and exercise science.  The university also provides English language courses through its English Language Centre. Additionally, Victoria University provides staff and students with research opportunities across a wide range of subjects. 

 

With more than 4,000 business partnerships, the institution provides students with international exposure to prepare them for the global workforce. Many of Victoria University’s courses are created in collaboration with internationally recognized organizations  such as Engineers Australia.

 

Moreover, Victoria University provides 126 undergraduate and 78 graduate programmes and several MBA programs. 

Top Courses offered by Victoria University

Here is the list of the most famous programs offered by Victoria University:

• Business and Education
• Information Technology
• Bachelor of Engineering
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• International Community Development

 

8. Australian Catholic University (ACU)

 

 

It is ranked among the top 1000 universities in the world and is one of the best colleges in Melbourne.  The university welcomes more than 33,000 students and has seven campuses in Australia and one in Italy.

Learning opportunities for students

With more than 200 global partnerships, the university provides numerous opportunities to students to gain practical experience through internships. These internships give students practical experience and industry connections, which not only improve their employability but also their professional abilities.

 

The Australian Catholic University also provides on-campus job opportunities, allowing students to work as IT support officers, library assistants, and student ambassadors. The university provides 63 postgraduate, 163 undergraduate, along with MBA courses.

Top Courses offered by Australian Catholic University

Here are some of the top subjects that you can choose from at Australian Catholic University: 

• Sports Science
• Automation and Control
• Hospitality and Tourism Management
• Computer Science and Engineering
• Business and Management
• Information Technology

Are you confused which university to choose? Read the following blog post:

How to Choose the Right University in Australia?

 

Final Thoughts

Melbourne is a vibrant city with a rich cultural diversity and an advanced education system, making it an ideal destination for international students. The city offers a wide range of top universities, each providing excellent courses and learning opportunities. 

Whether you are interested in business, engineering, health sciences, or the arts, Melbourne has an option that can meet your needs. Therefore, do your own research and grab this amazing opportunity to start your career as an international student in Australia.

 

How Can The Migration Help You?

The Migration is a registered company that provides authentic visa and education consultation services. We have a MARA-certified agent, Nasir Nawaz, in our team who has a wide range of experience in providing education consultation.

So, if you are confused and need help, schedule an online appointment now. We’ll assist you in choosing the right university by assessing your skills, age, qualifications and interests.

 

Related Articles

• Group of Eight | Top Universities in Australia
• Top 5 Medical Universities in Australia for International Students

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which university is rank 1 in Melbourne?

The University of Melbourne ranks number one in Australia and number 13 in the world according to the QS World University Rankings 2025 and Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024.

What are the best 3 universities in Australia?

The three best universities in Australia are:

• University of Melbourne
• University of Sydney. 
• Australian National University

What are the top 8 universities in Melbourne?

The top universities in Melbourne are: 

• University of Melbourne.
• Monash University.
• RMIT University 
• Deakin University.
• Swinburne University of Technology.
• La Trobe University.
• Victoria University.
• Australian Catholic University.