Best Universities in Melbourne - Aus: Fees, Courses & Ranking for 2025

Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world’s top student cities, and it’s easy to see why. Home to over 250,000 international students and 7 top-ranked universities, the city offers a world-class academic environment, vibrant culture, and high employability prospects. 

According to QS Best Student Cities 2024, Melbourne holds the #5 spot globally and sees its universities featuring well in global rankings. With research-intensive institutions ranked among the best alongside industry-relevant universities of contemporary character, Melbourne appeals to almost every kind of student.

Top 8 Universities in Melbourne

Here’s a curated list of the best universities in Melbourne based on global rankings, affordability, employability, research output, and student experience.

1. University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne is Australia’s highest-ranked university, renowned for its research, global partnerships, and innovation-driven curriculum. Its Parkville campus is at the heart of Melbourne’s academic and cultural life.

The University of Melbourne is Australia’s leading university, ranked #13 globally. With an acceptance rate of around 70%, it’s competitive yet accessible. The student–faculty ratio supports strong academic dialogue, and the high graduate employment rates underscore its industry tie‑ins. Tuition is approx INR 35–40 L/year—but ROI is excellent given its research reputation and startup ecosystem.
 

2. Monash University
 

Monash University is world-renowned for its industrial partnerships, research outputs, and its student body of about 86,000, representing more than 100 countries. The Clayton campus is at the forefront of innovation and multicultural engagement.
 

Monash is a global powerhouse with top‑10 world subject rankings in pharmacy (#4 globally) and mining (#15). Though slightly less selective than Melbourne, it offers broad course flexibility across multiple campuses. Graduate outcomes are excellent, and tuition is moderately high.
 

3. RMIT University

RMIT University stands as a centre for technology, design, and enterprise excellence, with its city-based campus putting students at the heart of Melbourne's creative and corporate quarters. The location in the city centre coupled with over 200 global ties offers unparalleled networking opportunities.

With an emphasis on hands-on learning and placements from industry, RMIT is considered by many to be an excellent choice for students desiring careers in the creative and tech arenas. The city's heart location and intimate industry connections mean they startups with ready graduates, with an employment rate rating for the last four years at 92%.
 

4. Deakin University
 

Deakin University is celebrated for its student support, digital innovation, and high graduate satisfaction levels. The university takes pride in its student population of 60,000, including 11,878 international students; along with education, nursing, and sports science attract students to the university, all offered with modern facilities.
 

With its inclusivity and a certain acceptability rate, it is accessible by many different students. The focus on employability and digital skills puts the university at a 91% rate of employment, making it a smart choice for anyone seeking value and assistance.
 

5. Swinburne University of Technology

The Swinburne University of Technology has excelled in areas of technology, engineering, and design, with a high reputation in facilitating work-integrated learning and industrial engagement. Having a 24,000 student population, with 7,000 of them being international, the campus forms a tight community with strong industrial links. It is the right opportunity for those seeking to pursue startup enthusiasm.

Swinburne is indeed ideal for those students who will work from the ground with industries in an environment of innovation. With a 14:1 ratio of students to teachers, the thrust is on collaborative learning. The tuition fee is fairly competitive, with varied scholarships available- International Excellence Scholarship awards up to 75% of fee reduction. With a 90% employment rate and alumni-founded, Swinburne stands out for students looking to acquire practical skills and entrepreneurial opportunities.
 

6. La Trobe University

La Trobe boasts research activity in health, science, and humanities while having regional standing and global orientation. The Melbourne campus offers modern facilities with emphasis on social impact, giving preference to students seeking careers with meaning.

La Trobe’s 70% acceptance rate makes it highly accessible for students with 55–70% in Class 12, especially in health or social sciences. The 20:1 student–faculty ratio indicates a larger classroom setting but ample support. Its regional campuses provide unique opportunities for students seeking a community-focused experience with solid career outcomes.
 

7. Victoria University
 

Victoria University is known for its flexible learning models, industry partnerships, and commitment to student success.
 

Victoria University’s block model (one subject at a time) and strong support services make it an excellent choice for students who value flexibility and practical learning. Tuition is the most affordable, with scholarships like the VU International Scholarship (10% fee reduction). With an 86% employment rate, it’s perfect for students seeking cost-effective, career-oriented education.
 

8. Australian Catholic University (ACU)

ACU offers mission-driven education in health, education, and humanities. With 33,000 students across seven campuses, including one in Rome, it offers a close-knit, values-driven community ideal for personalised learning.
 

ACU’s focus on social impact and community engagement makes it a top pick for students passionate about making a difference. Its affordable tuition fees and supportive campus culture offer great value for international students.
 

Conclusion

Melbourne universities provide world-class education with an emphasis on employability and research under the ambit of international exposure. There is a university in Melbourne to suit every student, depending on whether they wish to pursue academic or technical competence or applied skills.

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