Studying in Melbourne (2026)
— Guide for Indian Students
Studying in Melbourne 2026 — University of Melbourne, Monash, RMIT, living costs, Indian community, Subclass 485 visa for Indian students.
Quick Overview
Melbourne is Australia's most liveable city and home to the University of Melbourne (QS #13) and Monash University — two of the world's top universities. Its large South Asian community in the north and west (Dandenong, Sunshine, Craigieburn) and strong post-study work rights make Melbourne the top choice for Indian students in Australia.
Why Study in Melbourne?
- University of Melbourne (#13 QS) — Australia's highest-ranked university and world-class research institution
- Monash University — strong engineering, medicine, and business; large international student intake
- Subclass 485 post-study work: 2–4 years depending on study location; 1 bonus year for Melbourne
- Dandenong / Sunshine / Craigieburn — largest South Asian communities in Victoria
- Australia's largest job market for healthcare, finance, tech, and engineering outside Sydney
Universities in Melbourne
| University | Type | QS Rank | Intl. Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | Group of Eight | #13 | 40% |
| Monash University | Group of Eight | #55 | 35% |
| RMIT University | Technology-focused | #133 | 30% |
| La Trobe University | Comprehensive | #401–450 | 25% |
Cost of Living in Melbourne
| Item | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| On-campus housing | AUD 1,200–1,900/month |
| Private room (Dandenong / Sunshine) | AUD 650–950/month |
| Myki monthly pass | AUD 100–130/month |
| Food (self-catering) | AUD 300–450/month |
| OSHC | AUD 50–70/month |
Best Neighbourhoods for Indian Students
Dandenong
AUD 650–850/monthLargest South Asian community in Victoria. Indian grocery, temples, restaurants. 40 min to CBD by train.
Sunshine / Footscray
AUD 700–950/monthRapidly growing South Asian community. Authentic South Indian and North Indian food. 20 min to CBD.
Parkville / Carlton
AUD 1,200–1,700/monthAdjacent to University of Melbourne. Expensive but walkable.
Student Life in Melbourne
Melbourne has 150,000+ Indian students — the most in any Australian city. Diwali in Melbourne (Federation Square) is Australia's largest Diwali celebration. Part-time work: 48 hours/fortnight on Subclass 500; unlimited during holidays.
Visa Information
Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) required. GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statement required. OSHC must be purchased before applying. Subclass 485 post-study: 2 years base + 1 bonus year for Melbourne-based study.
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