International Students Flock To Melbourne University: Why So Many?

Melbourne University is a public research university with a rich history spanning over 160 years. The university has an international student population of 41-45% of its total student body, attracting students from over 130 countries worldwide. Melbourne's university sector has the highest proportion of international students in Australia, with RMIT University, Monash University, and the University of Melbourne topping the national table in 2017. The University of Melbourne's international student population is substantial, with approximately 14,000-20,000 international students enrolled.

Melbourne University's international student population

Melbourne University has a large international student population, with students coming from all over the world to study at this prestigious institution. As of 2024, there are over 20,000 international students at Melbourne University, making up approximately 45% of the student body. This diverse group of students represents more than 130 countries and adds to the rich cultural fabric of the university.

The university's international student population has been steadily growing over the years and has contributed significantly to the university's reputation as a leading educational institution in Australia and worldwide. Melbourne University is known for its academic excellence, attracting top students from across the globe. The university offers a wide range of courses and programs that cater to the diverse interests and aspirations of its international student body.

The large international student population at Melbourne University is a result of its global appeal and recognition as a world-class university. The university has consistently ranked highly in international rankings, placing it among the top universities in Australia and the world. Its strong reputation and high graduate employability rate make it an attractive choice for students seeking a high-quality education that will prepare them for successful careers.

The presence of a large international student population also brings economic benefits to the university and the wider community. International students contribute significantly to the local economy through their tuition fees and living expenses. Additionally, the cultural diversity they bring enhances the attractiveness of Melbourne as a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, further contributing to its economic growth and development.

The University's global alumni network

The University of Melbourne has a global alumni community of over 500,000 former students and donors, with alumni groups in many countries and cities worldwide. The University's ten formal Alumni Associations and numerous smaller networks help keep alumni connected internationally. These groups are based on location, discipline or industry and professional interests. They help alumni worldwide maintain a strong and meaningful connection with the University, providing regular opportunities for social and professional networking and development.

The Beijing Alumni Association, established in 2014, enables Beijing-based alumni to connect and strengthen their affiliation with the University. Similarly, the Shanghai Alumni Association, founded in 2007, focuses on providing networking and learning opportunities for its thousands of members. The Guangdong Alumni Association, established in 2013, has grown to connect with thousands of alumni in South China, fostering a robust social platform.

The Hong Kong Alumni Association, founded in 1987, was the University's first overseas alumni branch. It engages Melbourne graduates across different disciplines and professions to build a strong alumni network in Hong Kong. The University of Melbourne also has a presence in the United Kingdom, with the UK Alumni Association bringing together more than 2000 UK-based alumni.

In addition to international groups, the University of Melbourne has several domestic alumni networks, including in Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney, serving one of the University's largest alumni communities outside of Melbourne. These domestic networks aim to provide alumni with social connections and professional development opportunities within Australia.

International student fees

The University of Melbourne is one of the leading universities in Australia and the world, with a student body of over 54,000, including more than 20,000 international students from over 130 countries. The university offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options to support international students with their tuition and living costs.

International students at the University of Melbourne are required to pay full fees for their chosen course. These fees are based on the number of subjects studied each year and are charged for each semester the student is enrolled. The cost of each subject is determined by the discipline fee band it is grouped into and its study load. The University of Melbourne uses a credit system, with most undergraduate courses requiring students to enrol in subjects from more than one discipline fee band to achieve a total study load of 100 credit points (1 Equivalent Full Time Study Load) per year.

For example, the Study Abroad program allows students to enrol in three or four subjects per semester, with fees charged at the published rate for that semester. Students enrolling in three or more graduate-level subjects will be charged graduate study abroad fees, which vary depending on the discipline areas of the majority of their subjects.

In addition to tuition fees, international students at the University of Melbourne should also consider the cost of Overseas Student Health Cover, course materials, accommodation, and other living expenses. The University of Melbourne estimates that these additional costs, including food, weekly bills, transport, and social activities, will amount to a minimum deposit payment of AUD 17,000, which is due before the commencement of the course.

English language requirements for international students

The University of Melbourne is a highly reputable university, ranked 13th in the world by QS and 37th by ARWU. It has a large international community, with over 20,000 international students from more than 130 countries. All undergraduate and graduate degrees are taught and assessed in English, so international students must meet the University's English language requirement to be eligible for a place.

English Language Proficiency Tests

One way to meet the English language requirement is to complete an approved English language proficiency test and achieve the required score. The following tests are accepted:

• TOEFL Internet-based test
• IELTS (Academic International English Language Testing System)
• Pearson Test of English Academic
• Cambridge English, Advanced/Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
• C2 Proficiency (previously Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) examination)

The required scores vary depending on the degree being applied for. For example, to meet the requirement for all undergraduate degrees except the Bachelor of Oral Health, a TOEFL Internet-based test score of at least 79 is needed, with scores of 21 for writing, 18 for speaking, 13 for reading and 13 for listening. For the Bachelor of Oral Health, the required TOEFL score is higher, at 94 overall, with at least 27 for writing, 23 for speaking, 24 for reading and 24 for listening.

For IELTS, a score of 6.5 overall is required for all undergraduate degrees except Oral Health, with no bands less than 6.0. For the Bachelor of Oral Health, a score of 7.0 is needed, with no bands below 7.0.

Previous Study in English

Previous secondary or tertiary study in English may also meet the English language requirement. This includes:

• Successful completion of one of the listed secondary school English subjects/courses, within certain timeframes
• Passing at least the first year of a tertiary course taught and assessed entirely in English within the last two years
• Passing at least a two-year tertiary course taught and assessed entirely in English within the last five years

Foundation Study Programs

Foundation programs can help international students meet the academic and English language requirements for tertiary study. The University of Melbourne English Language Bridging Program (UMELBP) is a 10-week course that can help international students meet the English language requirement.

Other Ways to Satisfy the Requirement

For students who don't meet the requirements listed above, there are additional English programs and tests available. These include:

• Hawthorn-Melbourne's Academic English language programs, such as the IELTS Preparation Program, English for Academic Purposes (EAP), and Intensive Academic Preparation (IAP) Program
• Exchange and Study Abroad application information (for graduate students)

The University's reputation for excellence

The University of Melbourne has a national and international reputation for excellence. For over 160 years, it has made distinctive contributions to society and attracted the brightest students and researchers from across the globe. The university is committed to solving globally significant problems by bringing together the world's best minds.

The University of Melbourne is ranked #1 in Australia and is placed among the leading universities internationally. Independent world rankings place it at number 13 (QS) and number 37 (ARWU). The university's research expenditure is second only to that of the CSIRO in Australia. With over 100 research centres and institutes, the university collaborates with thought leaders worldwide to address society's complex issues in innovative ways.

The QS World University Rankings place the University of Melbourne in the top 20 internationally across 14 subject areas. The university is also ranked #8 in graduate employability worldwide by the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022. This outstanding reputation for excellence is further reflected in the diverse student body, with international students from over 130 countries and 150+ nationalities.

The University of Melbourne Excellence Awards are a testament to the university's commitment to recognising outstanding achievements. These awards celebrate the exceptional work of both academic and professional staff, fostering a culture of excellence across the institution. The university's rich history, spanning 160 years, is filled with achievements that have contributed to a brighter future. Notable milestones include Julia 'Bella' Guerin becoming the first woman to graduate from an Australian university and Professor Graeme Clark's development of the first multi-channel commercial cochlear implant, engineering the first bionic ear.

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