Universities

Did you know Melbourne is home to one of the Asia Pacific’s top three universities?  

Studying in Melbourne will give you and your children access to some of the best education in the world.

Where can you and your children go to university?

There are nine public universities in our state – four of which have both a university and a Technical and Further Education (TAFE) division.

The basic undergraduate course at university is a bachelor degree, which is completed in three to four years full-time (depending on the course studies). Students can then go on to postgraduate studies such as master's degrees or doctorates. Most courses are offered both full-time and part-time.

University fees

Fees and charges depend on whether a course is offered on a fee-for-service basis or supported by the government.

Local undergraduate students are eligible for places that are primarily funded by the Commonwealth Government – you make a partial contribution, which can be paid upfront or deferred and repaid once you graduate and your income passes a minimum repayment threshold.

To be eligible for a Commonwealth funded place in university or TAFE you have to be a permanent resident of Australia. If you are a temporary resident, you and your children will not be eligible and must apply as a full-fee paying international student.

Academic year

The academic year in Australian universities normally runs in two semesters per year: from early March to late November. Some universities offer trimester study options and summer schools. A number of courses also have a mid-year enrolment.

Explore Melbourne’s universities

Discover more about Melbourne’s universities through these links:

• Study Melbourne – for detailed information about studying in Melbourne including types of study, how to apply and living in Melbourne.
• Victorian Skills Gateway – information about Victorian vocational education and training options.