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AUSTRALIA · MELBOURNE

Swinburne University of Technology

public · Founded 2003 · Languages: en

In short

Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne offers vocational and higher education programs, recognized globally for research in astrophysics, engineering, and digital technology. It provides flexible study options and strong industry links for students from over 100 countries.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 2003
Students: 54,000
International students: 15,000
Acceptance rate: 70%
Tuition (intl): €20–35k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Melbourne, Australia

Swinburne University of Technology is a public research university founded in 1908 and based in Hawthorn, Melbourne. It operates a dual-sector model covering both vocational and higher education, offering programmes from certificates through to PhDs. The university is globally recognised for research in astrophysics, engineering, and digital technology, and maintains deep industry partnerships that shape its curricula. Swinburne consistently ranks among Australia's top universities and attracts students from over 100 countries.

Why study here

World-class astrophysics research hub — the Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing is among the world's leading research centres in its field.
Strong industry links with technology, engineering, and business sectors in Melbourne, providing internships and graduate pathways.
Flexible dual-sector pathways: students can enter via vocational qualifications and transition smoothly to bachelor's or master's degrees.
Melbourne is consistently rated one of the world's most liveable cities, offering a multicultural, safe, and vibrant student experience.
Online and hybrid study options via Swinburne Online for working professionals and international students with visa restrictions.

Student life

Swinburne University encourages students to get involved and offers various opportunities to meet current students and academics, fostering a lively campus environment. The university hosts events like study expos to help students explore courses and university life. Campus life is enriched by over 50 student clubs, a student union, career fairs, and cultural events reflecting the university's diverse international community.

Fees

InternationalAUD 30,000–50,000 per year (approx. EUR 20,000–35,000) depending on programme; engineering and IT tend toward the higher end

HomeAUD 7,000–11,500 per year (Commonwealth-supported domestic students)

LivingAUD 20,000–25,000 per year in Melbourne (approx. EUR 13,000–17,000)

Swinburne scholarships can reduce international tuition by 20–30%. Students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) required by Australian visa regulations.

Admissions

UndergraduateAustralian Year 12 equivalent; ATAR or equivalent for direct entry; portfolio for design/creative programmes; mature-age pathways also available via TAFE.

PostgraduateRelevant bachelor's degree with minimum GPA equivalent to Australian 2:1 (credit average); work experience may be required for MBA and professional programmes.

IELTS6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) for most programmes

TOEFL iBT79+ overall

PTE Academic58+

Rankings

QS World University Rankings 2024Top 400-450

Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024Top 401-500

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) 2023Top 401-500

University scholarships

Swinburne International Excellence ScholarshipAUD 5,000–10,000 per year (merit-based)

Vice-Chancellor's International Excellence ScholarshipUp to 50% tuition fee reduction

Australia AwardsFull scholarship for eligible developing-country students

Accreditation

The university is an accredited Australian higher education provider registered with TEQSA (Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency). Engineering programmes are accredited by Engineers Australia.

For international students

Australia

Student visa & funds

International students need the Student visa (subclass 500), which requires a Confirmation of Enrolment from a CRICOS-registered provider, Overseas Student Health Cover, and a health and character check. Since May 2024 applicants must show financial capacity of at least AUD 29,710 for one year of living costs, plus first-year tuition and around AUD 2,500 for travel. Since March 2024 all applicants must also satisfy the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, which replaced the former Genuine Temporary Entrant test.

Working while you study

Student visa holders may work a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session — a cap re-introduced in July 2023 — and unlimited hours during official scheduled course breaks. Students enrolled in a master’s by research or a doctoral degree have no work-hour limit at any time. Work must not begin before the course start date.

After you graduate

Eligible graduates may apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) within six months of completing their studies. In the Post-Higher Education Work stream, bachelor’s and master’s (coursework) holders receive up to two years and master’s (research) or doctoral holders up to three years; regional study and the Australia–India trade agreement can add further time. The general age limit is under 35 at the time of application, rising to under 50 for research-degree holders.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; Group of Eight typically 6.5–7.0 with no band below 6.0
TOEFL iBT79–100; UG 79–90, PG 90–100
PTE Academic50–65; UG 58+, PG 65+

Main intakes

FebruaryJuly

Typical living cost

€1,600/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesDepartment of Home Affairs — Student visa (subclass 500) · Study Australia — Student visa (subclass 500) work rights · Study Australia — Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) · IDP IELTS — Minimum IELTS scores for Australian universities · AECC — Cost of living in Australia for international students

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Swinburne University of Technology · Australia

Bachelor of Applied Innovation

Swinburne University of Technology · Australia

Masters

Swinburne University of Technology · Australia

Swinburne Online Courses

Swinburne Online offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses designed to fit your life, whether you're looking for a career change, upskilling, or returning to study. The online learning environment provides flexibility, allowing you to study around your work and personal commitments. You'll receive dedicated support throughout your study journey, from enrolment to graduation.

Swinburne University of Technology · Australia

Swinburne University of Technology - Online Programs

Swinburne University of Technology offers a range of forward-thinking online programs designed for flexibility and innovation. Study subjects across business, communications, technology, and science, with options to customize your learning path. Bachelor degrees include industry placements or projects to build real-world skills, even when studying remotely. Swinburne is recognized for its strengths in teaching, student experience, and graduate outcomes, ranking highly in national university assessments.

Swinburne University of Technology · Australia

UniLink

Scholarships

for Australia

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Australian Government - Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Australia Awards)

ASEAN-Australia Awards Scholarships

Open to citizens of eligible ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste) applying for a master's degree by coursework or research at an Australian university. Applicants need a strong academic record, leadership potential, relevant work experience and English proficiency, and must meet Australian visa and health requirements. Exact terms are set each cycle by the Australian Government.

Forrest Research Foundation (Minderoo Foundation)

Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships

Open to early-career post-doctoral researchers of any nationality and from all academic disciplines. Applicants must be in the final year of their PhD or no more than two years past PhD completion at the time of taking up the fellowship, be proficient in English, and meet the employment-eligibility conditions of the host Western Australian university. Fellows must reside at Forrest Hall in Perth for the full term and commit to mentoring Forrest Scholars, undertaking ambassadorial duties and providing leadership within Forrest Hall.

University of Melbourne

Hansen Scholarship at the University of Melbourne

Australian citizens, permanent residents or holders of an Australian temporary or permanent protection visa who are enrolled in an Australian Year 12 or IB programme, aged 16-20 at application, with a predicted ATAR of 90+ (or IB equivalent) and demonstrated financial hardship (e.g. a family receiving Centrelink benefits). Asylum seekers are eligible for full fee remission.

Australian Government (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade)

Australia Awards Scholarships

Open to citizens of ~30+ eligible developing countries (mostly the Indo-Pacific), who are not married to/engaged to an Australian or NZ citizen, meet academic and English requirements, and commit to returning home for at least 2 years after study. Fields must align with the partner country's development priorities.

University of Sydney International Research Scholarship (USydIS)

For international students undertaking a postgraduate research degree (a master's by research or a PhD) at the University of Sydney. It covers tuition fees and a living-allowance stipend; applicants need a strong research background and a confirmed place and supervisor for their research project.

University of Melbourne (School of Computing and Information Systems)

University of Melbourne CIS PhD Scholarship

Open to domestic and international students of all nationalities. Applicants must hold a Master of Computer Science from the University of Melbourne, apply for the Doctor of Philosophy – Engineering and IT (Computing and Information Systems) programme (DR-PHILEIT), and demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership, and research potential. A research proposal, a personal statement, and a letter of support from the proposed PhD supervisor are required.

Frequently asked questions

What are the estimated annual fees for international students at Swinburne University of Technology?

International students can expect annual fees ranging from approximately AUD 30,000 to AUD 50,000, depending on the chosen program. Engineering and IT programs generally fall at the higher end of this range. Swinburne scholarships can offer a reduction of 20-30% on tuition fees.

What are the English language requirements for international applicants?

Most programs require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0. Alternatively, applicants can provide a TOEFL iBT score of 79+ or a PTE Academic score of 58+.

What kind of support does Swinburne University offer international students?

Swinburne University attracts students from over 100 countries and fosters a diverse international community. The university offers scholarships, flexible study pathways, and vibrant campus life with over 50 student clubs and various cultural events.

Can international students receive scholarships at Swinburne?

Yes, Swinburne University offers several scholarships for international students, including the Swinburne International Excellence Scholarship (AUD 5,000–10,000 per year) and the Vice-Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship (up to 50% tuition fee reduction). The Australia Awards scholarship is also available for eligible students from developing countries.

What are the living costs for students in Melbourne?

Students should budget approximately AUD 20,000 to AUD 25,000 per year for living expenses in Melbourne. This estimate covers accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses in this vibrant city.

Last updated 3 July 2026