Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is a bustling metropolis known for its diverse population, world-class universities, and vibrant arts scene. As one of Malaysian students' most popular study destinations, Melbourne offers a dynamic and enriching environment that blends academic excellence with a high quality of life. Whether you're pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or vocational studies, Melbourne provides a unique backdrop for academic and personal growth.
Melbourne boasts some of Australia's top universities, each offering various programs and excellent facilities. Here are the institutions you can consider to study, based on the rankings:
University | Global Ranking | National Ranking | Intake Months |
University of Melbourne | #13 | #1 | February, July |
Monash University | #37 | #5 | February, July |
RMIT University | #123 | #10 | February, July |
Deakin University | #197 | #15 | February, July |
La Trobe University | #217 | #17 | February, July |
Melbourne is a top destination for international students who want to study abroad. Here are several reasons and the key benefits:
Melbourne's universities are renowned for their high academic standards and research opportunities. They offer a wide range of courses, ensuring that Malaysian students receive a world-class education that is recognized globally.
Melbourne is one of the most multicultural cities in the world, welcoming students from all corners of the globe. This cultural diversity enriches the student experience, providing opportunities to learn from different perspectives and cultures.
The city offers a lively student life with numerous activities, events, and student organisations. From arts and music festivals to sports and outdoor adventures, there’s always something happening in Melbourne.
Melbourne is known for its safety and friendly community. The city's low crime rate and inclusive atmosphere provide peace of mind for Malaysian students and their families.
Getting around Melbourne is convenient with its extensive public transportation network, including trams, trains, and buses. The city also supports cycling and walking, making it easy for students to navigate and explore.
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Melbourne offers various scholarships to help international students manage their finances while studying abroad.
Australia Awards
The Australia Awards are prestigious grants funded by the Australian government, aimed at students from developing countries. These scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.
Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
The University of Melbourne offers scholarships for high-achieving international undergraduate students, covering partial to full tuition fees.
Monash International Merit Scholarship
Monash University provides merit-based scholarships for outstanding international students, supporting them with tuition fee waivers and stipends.
Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)
The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) supports international students undertaking research doctorate and research master’s degrees, providing financial assistance for tuition fees and living expenses.
Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
Deakin University offers scholarships for high-achieving international students, covering up to 100% of the tuition fees.
To apply for a student visa to study in Melbourne, you must first be enrolled in a course of study. Once you have chosen your course and institution, you will need to obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your education provider. Additionally, you must secure Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) unless you fall into one of the exemption categories. If you are under 18, you will also need to provide proof of a suitable welfare arrangement.
With these requirements in place, you can proceed to apply for your visa online through the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website. The amount of evidence you need to provide during the application process will vary based on your country of origin and your intended education provider. Our expert counsellors from IDP Malaysia will assist you with the whole process. It is advisable to check the latest visa policies on the official site to stay informed about any updates or changes.
Melbourne's cost of living is relatively high compared to other cities, but it offers excellent value for its quality of life.
Accommodation is one of the most significant expenses, with rent ranging from $150 to $300 per week, depending on where you stay and the type of housing. For food, you can expect to spend between $80 and $150 per week, depending on your eating habits and whether you dine out frequently.
Utilities such as electricity and gas typically cost between $40 and $100 per week. Public transportation is efficient and affordable, with weekly expenses ranging from $40 to $50. Internet and phone services generally cost between $20 and $50 per week. Additionally, you should budget for miscellaneous expenses, including entertainment, personal care items, and school supplies, which can add another $50 or more to your weekly budget.
In short, your total weekly living expenses in Melbourne can range from approximately $380 to $700, depending on your lifestyle and spending habits.
International students can work part-time while studying in Melbourne, allowing them to earn extra income and gain valuable work experience. With a student visa (Subclass 500), you can work up to 48 hours a fortnight when your course of study or training is in session. However, it is best to refer to the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs for detailed information on your working rights.
Malaysian students who choose to study in Melbourne will find a wide array of career opportunities awaiting them. The city’s job market is thriving, with the three largest sectors being Education and Training, Accommodation and Food Services, and Healthcare and Social Assistance. In addition, the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, as well as the Transport, Postal, and Warehousing industries, are experiencing significant growth.
Melbourne's cost of living, although high, is balanced by its vibrant economy and expanding industries, which offer numerous job prospects. Graduates in Melbourne can expect competitive salaries, comparable to those in other major Australian cities like Sydney and Brisbane.
When it comes to work-life balance, Melbourne is one of the top cities in Australia. It frequently ranks highly on global liveability indexes, thanks to its excellent quality of life. This combination of abundant career opportunities and a rewarding lifestyle makes Melbourne an appealing destination for both students and professionals.
Explore more cities in Australia other than Melbourne as study destinations and set yourself up for future success. Each city offers unique experiences and opportunities, ensuring you can find the right environment to thrive academically and personally.
At IDP Malaysia, we understand the importance of proving your English proficiency for university admissions and scholarship applications. The IELTS test, co-owned by IDP, is widely accepted and recognized by educational institutions and employers worldwide. With free IELTS online tests and ample IELTS preparation materials online, it can help you excel on the test day and achieve your academic and career goals.
Ready to take the next step in your educational journey? Visit IDP Study in Australia to explore study destinations, learn more about the IELTS test, and let IDP guide you through the process of studying abroad.