When you're choosing a destination for your study abroad experience, finding somewhere with amazing educational opportunities should be at the top of your list.
Luckily, Victoria is home to world-class universities and educational institutions. Whatever you’re looking to study, you’re sure to find a great option here.
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Speaker, Amanda Abeysinghe, International Alumnus, Sri Lanka: The opportunities available to international students in Victoria are endless. [Amanda is speaking to camera, Melbourne's high rise city buildings in background]
Victoria is home to Australia's number one university, two of our universities rank in the world's top 50, and we have two universities with 40 or more subjects in the world's top 100. [Visuals of Melbourne parkland through to city skyline, students walking through campus, fashion design students working on models, scenes around campus and in lecture theatres]
Our higher education institutions also have outstanding sustainability achievements, as they actively tackle the world's greatest environmental, social
and governance challenges, shaping the next generation of socially responsible leaders. [Visuals of wind turbine, technology being explored in classes, green areas on campus and waterfront picnic]
Research performance and expertise in Victoria is considered at or above world standard.
With over 500,000 publications and research outputs, thousands of patents each year, and dedicated government funding to support cutting-edge innovation, Victoria is dedicated to backing research and ideas that can change the world - and you can be part of this! [Visuals of research students working on laptops, in libraries and robotics lab]
Studying at university, you can expect to join your peers in busy lecture theatres for formal presentations, engage in hands-on learning in workshops, benefit from smaller class sizes and one-on-one time with academics in tutorials, and then utilise common spaces, such as quiet libraries or bustling student hubs, for independent learning. [Scenes around university campuses, students enjoying life, in classes, working in libraries and other spaces]
Victoria's universities have over 50 campuses located across the state.
So you can find a course in a location that suits your budget and your lifestyle. [Visuals of students outdoors on campus and traveling to uni, walking along the Yarra]
Victoria's universities boast 96 disciplines with an ‘above standard rating’, and countless courses to suit you and your unique career goals. [Student searching course options on a computer, city views, green lab]
Victoria also offers a global education, where graduates are equipped to meet the challenges of a complex world, excel in their chosen field and establish a global network of peers. [Grad student working in high-vis vest, waterfront picnic, Melbourne streets]
This is where global careers are launched!
[Study Melbourne, Victoria, Australia logo]
Here is our ultimate guide to the 10 universities in Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Universities in Victoria - Ultimate Guide
Australian Catholic University (ACU)
ACU is recognised as a leading institution, renowned for its academic excellence and global partnerships. Offering programs across 4 faculties, students benefit from 2 campuses in Victoria, along with over 30,000 work-integrated learning opportunities each year, helping them to align their studies with future career goals.
Institution Trading Name: Australian Catholic University
CRICOS Provider Code: 00004G
Locations: Melbourne and Ballarat
Why international students choose Australian Catholic University:
- Study in trendy Fitzroy, Melbourne or in Ballarat near the city centre and Lake Wendouree.
- Over 160 undergraduate and 60 postgraduate programs.
- A welcoming, inclusive environment for students of all faiths and backgrounds.
University rankings
- #46 globally in the ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments 2025
- #101–200 globally in the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2025
- #82 in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024
Learn more about ACU’s rankings.
Subject rankings
- #18 globally for Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies: QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026
- #31 globally for Nursing: ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025
- #51–75 globally for Education: ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025
- #51-75 globally for Psychology: ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025
Learn more about ACU’s subject rankings.
Research rankings
- Score of 97.1 for research quality (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
- #9 globally for research quality in education (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
Learn more about ACU’s research rankings.
Deakin University offers high quality learning experiences across 4 faculties and 14 schools. Its students enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities and outstanding support. Deakin University is ranked #1 in Victoria for graduate employment, course satisfaction and student satisfaction in the 2024 Graduate Outcomes Survey, Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT).
Institution Trading Name: Deakin University (Deakin)
CRICOS Provider Code: 00113B
Locations: Melbourne, Warrnambool and Geelong.
Why international students choose Deakin:
- Consistently rated #1 in Victoria for student satisfaction (2023)
- Campuses in Melbourne, Geelong, and Warrnambool
- Industry-led, career-focused degrees
- Over 200 undergraduate and 150 postgraduate programs
- Supportive, inclusive community with strong student services
Courses
Deakin University offers reputable degrees in business and commerce, law, education, information technology, engineering, medicine and health, sport and design. Its courses are highly ranked globally by QS World University Rankings by Subject, and Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject, Shanghai Ranking, Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments, and U.S. News Best Global Universities Subject Rankings including:
- marine and freshwater biology (ranked #1 in Victoria - U.S. News Best Global Universities Subject Rankings)
- business administration (ranked #27 in the world - Shanghai Ranking, Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024)
- education (#3 in Australia for education and educational research and #13 globally - U.S. News Best Global Universities Subject Rankings)
- nursing (ranked #15 in the world - Shanghai Ranking, Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024)
- sport science (ranked #1 in the world - Shanghai Ranking, Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024).
Global rankings
In addition to being ranked #1 Victorian university for graduate employment in the 2026 QS World University Rankings, Deakin University is consistently placed among the top 200 universities in the world. It is recognised as #1 Victorian university for course satisfaction and #1 Victorian university for student support by the 2023 Australian Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching survey.
Learn more about Deakin University’s global rankings performance.
Research
Deakin is recognised globally for its research quality, transforming bold ideas into solutions for global challenges, across a community of more than 2,000 researchers.
It is recognised as the #2 Victorian university for research quality (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025); #3 university in Victoria for research impact in the CTWS Leiden Ranking 2024; Australia’s #6 leading research institution by The Australian's 2025 Research Magazine; and #9 university in Australia for research impact in the CWTS Leiden Ranking, 2024.
With multiple campuses across Victoria, Federation University is an ideal choice for those looking to study while experiencing the real community feel of regional Australia. Federation University is also known for its diverse and welcoming student community, sharing in the success of their 125,000 strong network of global alumni.
Institution Trading Name: Federation University Australia
CRICOS Provider Code: 00103D
Locations: Ballarat, Berwick, Gippsland and the Wimmera.
Courses
Federation University offers courses in an array of fields, from allied health and education to information technology. The institution is known for its co-operative approach to education, enabling students to earn while they learn through meaningful industry placements in their chosen field. One of Federation’s key features is its small class sizes, providing students with the best possible educational experience.
Global rankings
Federation University was classed in the top 200 young universities in the world according to the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024. The university is recognised globally for its impact through the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025, which places it in the top 10% of universities for overall sustainable development, and also recognises its global excellence in key impact areas:
- #24 for gender equality
- #27 for partnership for the goals
- #39 for reduced inequalities
- #45 for good health and wellbeing.
Learn more about Federation University’s global rankings performance.
Research
Federation University’s research excellence is reflected in the latest Excellence for Research Australia assessment, where Federation was rated at or above world standard in 80% of the submitted fields of research. It is among the top ten Australian universities for industry-connected graduate research programs.
La Trobe is at the forefront of real impact in health, science and technology. La Trobe believes in preparing students for a lifelong career. That’s why work-integrated learning, work-based learning and industry placements are built into many courses, so students can gain practical skills and experience inside and outside of the classroom. With this focus on student satisfaction and career outcomes, La Trobe is ranked #1 in Victoria for undergraduate employability and postgraduate salaries according to Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) 2024 and 2023 Graduate Outcomes Survey - Longitudinal.
Institution Trading Name: La Trobe University
CRICOS Provider Code: 00115M
Locations: Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Bundoora, Epping, Melbourne, Mildura and Shepparton.
Why La Trobe appeals to international students:
- Strong reputation for research and teaching quality
- Practical, hands-on degrees across health, business, IT, science, and arts
- Rated #1 university in Victoria for employer satisfaction (QILT 2024)
- 7 campuses across Melbourne and regional Victoria
- Dedicated international student support
- Inclusive and welcoming community
Courses
According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, La Trobe’s Nursing is ranked equal 42nd globally, while sports‑related subjects remain in the top 50. Additionally, La Trobe continues to rank among the top 100 in the world for archaeology. La Trobe is highly regarded for teaching in a range of specialist disciplines including:
- business and commerce; and social sciences (ranked top 250 in the world - Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
- education and teaching; health (ranked top 250 in the world - Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
- IT and engineering (ranked top 300 in the world - Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025
- science; law and criminology (ranked top 200 in the world - Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025).
Global rankings
La Trobe has been ranked among the global top 250 universities in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and in the top 1% of worldwide universities in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025.
Learn more about La Trobe University’s global rankings performance.
Research
La Trobe is top-rated nationally and rated ‘well above world standard’ in 23 fields of research, according to Australian Research Council, 2019, Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) Outcomes 2018.
Monash University is a leading global research and education institution with a presence spanning the Indo-Pacific and into Europe. A founding member of the Group of Eight, the University’s broad academic expertise, diverse student cohort, and rich on-campus experiences combine to provide a wealth of opportunities to its more than 86,000 students.
Institution Trading Name: Monash University
CRICOS Provider Code: 00008C
Locations: Five campuses in Australia—Alfred, Clayton, Caulfield, Parkville, and Peninsula—along with campuses in Malaysia, Indonesia and Italy, and teaching locations in China and India.
Courses
Monash University is Australia’s largest university, offering a broad range of study options including comprehensive courses, specialist courses and double degrees that include a wide range of electives, graduate pathways and overseas study options. Rich educational experiences, such as the University’s flagship Global Immersion Guarantee (GIG) program, the Monash Innovation Guarantee (MIG), Research, Experimentation and Discovery (RED), and the Volunteering in Practice unit, enable students to stand out in a competitive global market. It is highly regarded for teaching in a range of specialist disciplines including:
- business administration (ranked #1 in Australia and #3 in the world - Shanghai Ranking, Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024)
- education (ranked #19 in the world and #2 in Australia - Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
- computer science (ranked #61 in the world and #2 in Australia - Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
- engineering (ranked #15 in the world for engineering – mineral and mining - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, and ranked #2 in Australia and =#59 globally for engineering - Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
- medical and health (ranked #2 in Australia and #31 in the world - Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
- pharmacy and pharmacology (ranked #1 in Australia and #4 in the world - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025).
Global rankings
- =#36 (QS World University Rankings 2026)
- =#58 (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
- #76 (ShanghaiRanking Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025)
- #37 (QS Sustainability Rankings 2026)
- #63 (globally, #3 in Australia for the Times Higher Education World Reputation Rankings 2025)
- #38 (US News and World Report Best Global Universities Rankings 2025-26)
Learn more about Monash University’s global rankings performance.
Research
As a top 50 research-intensive university, Monash continues to accelerate major programmatic, multi-partner, mission-based endeavours to address the global challenges of the age – climate change, geopolitical security and thriving communities – for the betterment of local and international communities.
RMIT University is an international university of technology, design and enterprise. RMIT’s approach to teaching is grounded in hands-on learning and focuses on the development of real-world skills. For example, in 2024, there were 24,245 students undertaking work-integrated learning activities with 4054 unique global industry.
Institution Trading Name: RMIT University (RMIT)
CRICOS Provider Code: 00122A
Locations: RMIT is an international university with three campuses in Melbourne (City, Brunswick and Bundoora), two in Vietnam (Hanoi and Saigon South), two aviation sites in Melbourne, and a research centre in Barcelona, Spain.
Why international students choose RMIT University:
- Teaching in state-of-the-art facilities with industry-connected courses.
- Opportunities to apply theory with leading organisations.
- Graduates equipped with skills for current industries and future opportunities
University rankings
- #=95 globally (QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026)
- #125 globally (QS World University Rankings 2026)
- # 251-300 globally (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
- #198 (U.S. News Best Global Universities 2025-2026)
- #=56 (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025)
- #28 globally (Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024)
Learn more about RMIT’s rankings.
Subject rankings
- Architecture & Built Environment: #15 globally and #1 in Australia (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Art & Design: #=19 globally and 1 in Australia (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Library & Information Management: #29 globally and #1 Australia (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Business Administration: #6 globally (ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025)
- Food Science & Technology: #26 globally and #1 in Australia (ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025)
- Civil Engineering: #32 globally and #1 in Australia (ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025)
- Aerospace Engineering: #34 globally and #1 in Australia (ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025)
Learn more about RMIT’s subject rankings.
Research rankings
Scored 82.5 for research quality (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
Learn more about RMIT’s research.
Swinburne University of Technology is a world-class university creating social and economic impact through science, technology and innovation. It offers real industry connections and facilities that connect people and technology for a better world.
Institution Trading Name: Swinburne University of Technology
CRICOS Provider Code: 00111D
Locations: Croydon, Hawthorn and Wantirna.
Why international students choose Swinburne University of Technology:
- Global reputation for quality teaching, research, and graduate outcomes.
- Strong commitment to industry collaboration and innovation.
- Guaranteed industry experience for every Swinburne learner through pioneering programs.
University rankings
- #251–300 globally (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
- #=294 globally (QS World University Rankings 2026)
- #=290 globally (QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026)
- #146 (U.S. News Best Global Universities 2025-2026)
- #201–300 globally (Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025)
- #=24 globally (Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024)
Learn more about Swinburne University of Technology’s rankings.
Subject rankings
- Art & Design: #101-150 globally (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Computer Science: #151–175 globally (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Automation and Control: #9 globally (ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025)
- Hospitality &Tourism Management: #76-100 globally (ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025)
- Civil Engineering: #101-150 globally (ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 202
Learn more about Swinburne University of Technology’s subject rankings.
Research rankings
- Score of 91.4 for research quality (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
- Ten researchers ranked among the top 1% globally across 12 fields (2025, Clarivate Analytics Web of Science Group).
Learn more about Swinburne University of Technology’s research rankings.
Founded in 1853, the University of Melbourne is Australia’s leading university with a strong tradition of higher education in the arts, sciences and many professional disciplines.
The University of Melbourne is ranked #1 in Australia and one of the world’s best in the QS World University Rankings 2026, Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, and ShanghaiRanking Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025.
Institution Trading Name: The University of Melbourne
CRICOS Provider Code: 00116K
Locations: Parkville, Southbank, Burnley, Dookie, Creswick, Werribee, Shepparton.
Why international students choose the University of Melbourne:
- Global reputation for excellence in teaching, research, and graduate outcomes.
- Strong focus on innovation and industry collaboration.
- Consistently ranked as one of the world’s top universities.
- Wide range of opportunities for industry engagement and practical learning experiences.
University rankings
- #19 globally and #1 in Australia (QS World University Rankings 2026)
- #37 globally and #1 in Australia (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
- #=11 globally (QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026)
- #38 globally and #1 in Australia (Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025)
Learn more about the University of Melbourne’s rankings.
Subject rankings
- Law: #8 globally and #1 in Australia (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Education studies: #16 globally and #1 in Australia (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Sociology: #18 globally and #1 in Australia (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- English Language & Literature: #18 globally and #1 in Australia (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Psychology: #19 globally and #1 in Australia (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Medical and Health: #=20 globally and #1 in Australia (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Veterinary Science: #=20 globally (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Medicine: #20 globally and #1 in Australia (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Psychology: #20 globally and #1 in Australia (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Communications & Media Studies: #22 globally (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Business and Economics: #32 globally and #1 in Australia (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Life Sciences: #33 globally and #1 in Australia (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Engineering - Chemical: #39 globally (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Arts and Humanities: #44 globally (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
- Social Sciences: #50 globally (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
Learn more about the University of Melbourne’s subject rankings.
Research
- Score of 87.8 for research quality (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
- #43 for Global Research Reputation (US News & World Report: Best Global Universities 2025-2026)
Learn more about the University of Melbourne’s research.
The University of Divinity offers world-class education in theology, philosophy, and spirituality, with a focus on small, supportive learning environments and interfaith understanding.
Institution Trading Name: University of Divinity
CRICOS Provider Code: 01037A
Location: Melbourne
Why international students choose the University of Divinity:
- Specialist in theology, philosophy, and ministry with a rich heritage since 1910.
- Strong support from diverse churches and religious orders.
- Personalised education within a collaborative and values-driven environment.
Rankings
The university is regularly ranked by students as the top university in Australia for student satisfaction and learner engagement, reflecting its high quality curriculum and small class sizes.
Courses
The University of Divinity delivers education and research in theology, philosophy and spirituality, and for over one hundred years, has prepared its graduates for ministry, leadership and community service.
Research
The University of Divinity produces world-class research in all theological disciplines. It also offers a range of grants to higher degrees by research students, academic staff, honorary researchers and librarians.
VU is a world-class university celebrated for its inclusive environment, industry connections and innovative approach to education. With a history dating back over a century, VU is a dual-sector university offering internationally recognised qualifications ranging from vocational courses to postgraduate degrees.
Institution Trading Name: Victoria University
CRICOS Provider Code: 00124K
Locations: Footscray, Melbourne, St Albans and Sunshine.
Why international students choose Victoria University:
- State-of-the-art facilities, supportive staff, and practical, real-world learning.
- Opportunities for work placements and industry projects.
- Unique VU Block Model® focuses on one or two subjects at a time in small, interactive classes.
- Award-winning teaching method improving student engagement and results.
University rankings
- #6 globally (ShanghaiRanking – Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments 2025)
- #101-200 globally (Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2025)
- #70 globally (Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024)
Learn more about Victoria University’s rankings.
Subject rankings
Sports-Related Subjects: #51-100 globally (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)
Research
Scored 74.5 for research quality (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026)
Learn more about Victoria University’s research.
Find a course
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