In short
Victoria University in Melbourne, Australia, offers an innovative learning model focusing on one subject at a time, with strong industry connections and a range of courses from TAFE to PhD. Scholarships and support services are available for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1916
- Students
- 45,298
- International students
- 14,000
- Acceptance rate
- 50%
- Tuition (intl)
- €14–23k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Melbourne, Australia
Victoria University (VU) is an Australian university known for its unique VU Block Model®, where students focus on one subject at a time in smaller classes. Ranked in the top 3% of universities worldwide by Times Higher Education, VU offers a diverse range of courses across TAFE, undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels. The university strongly emphasizes practical, industry-connected learning, aiming to prepare students for real-world careers through extensive placements and industry partnerships. VU is committed to providing an accessible education and supporting students from various backgrounds. The university's academic offerings span areas like Arts, Humanities & Community Services, Business, IT, Cyber Security & Data Science, Education & Early Childhood, Engineering, Science & Built Environment, Health, Biomedicine & Nursing, Law, Justice & Legal Practice, Sports, Exercise & Fitness, and Trades. VU provides various support services, including dedicated student success advisors for online students, and boasts state-of-the-art facilities across its campuses, including media production precincts and advanced science laboratories. For international students, VU provides a welcoming environment and offers several scholarships to assist with tuition fees and accommodation. The university is particularly focused on producing graduates with highly sought-after employability skills, fostering a supportive learning community, and encouraging innovation in research aimed at positive societal change.
Why study here
- Experience the award-winning VU Block Model®: study one subject at a time in smaller classes for deeper, focused learning.
- Benefit from over 4000 industry connections, providing opportunities for real-world placements and networking.
- Gain practical, hands-on experience in modern facilities and laboratories.
- Access diverse courses from TAFE to PhD, with flexible options to combine passions and career goals.
- Receive support from dedicated academics, facilitators, and student success advisors.
- Contribute to impactful research with a sharp focus on generating positive change.
Student life
Victoria University provides a dynamic student experience, including opportunities to gain valuable industry experience through work placements with a wide network of community and industry partners such as Western Bulldogs, Linfox Logistics, Toyota Australia, IBM, and Zoos Victoria. The university offers modern, high-tech workshops and state-of-the-art creative learning spaces, including television and radio studios, post-production labs, and advanced science laboratories. For those studying STEM-related courses, UniLodge Victoria University offers safe, welcoming, and fully furnished accommodation right across from the Footscray Park Campus, fostering a sense of community.
Fees
InternationalInternational tuition typically ranges from about AUD 22,000 to AUD 38,000 per year depending on the course and study level; exact fees are published per program on the VU website.
Home—
LivingInternational students in Melbourne should budget roughly AUD 24,000-29,000 per year for living costs including accommodation, food, transport and health cover.
Victoria University is proud to support thousands of international scholarship recipients and sponsored students every year. Several scholarships are available to help reduce tuition fees or cover accommodation costs.
Admissions
Recent Secondary Education (within last 2 years)Completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (VCE or equivalent) including Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English. ATAR is not a consideration; only successful completion of secondary school studies and any additional prerequisites are required.
Vocational Education and Training (VET/TAFE) StudyCompletion of an Australian Advanced Diploma, Diploma (or equivalent) or a Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation (or equivalent).
Higher Education StudyFull or partial completion of an Australian higher education award (or equivalent), completion of a single unit of higher education studies, or completion of a bridging/enabling course (Foundation course or equivalent).
IELTSOverall 6.0 with no band below 6.0 for most undergraduate courses (higher for some programs)
TOEFLiBT 70-80 depending on course
Rankings
Times Higher EducationTop 3% worldwide
QILT Survey (2024)#1 in Victoria for skills development
University scholarships
VU Block Model® International ScholarshipUp to 30% off tuition fees
STEM Accommodation ScholarshipUp to a year's free accommodation (up to $15,500 value)
VU Global Research Scholarship20% off tuition fees
Accreditation
Victoria University is registered with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) as an Australian university and is a registered provider of courses to international students (CRICOS).
For international students
AustraliaStudent 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 selectionVictoria University · Australia
Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) 22627VIC
This Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) will equip you with the skills needed for a creative and rewarding career in building design. You'll become proficient in the design, presentation, and documentation processes for residential, industrial, and commercial buildings. The course combines classroom learning with hands-on tasks and industry projects, developing your expertise in construction technology, design solutions, building codes, compliance, sustainable design, project management, and small business planning. Graduates will be well-prepared to register as drafting practitioners with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) after gaining relevant industry experience.
Diploma
Level
€21k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Victoria University · Australia
Advanced Diploma of Building Surveying
This Advanced Diploma of Building Surveying (CPC60121) is designed to equip you with the expert knowledge needed to qualify as a Building Surveyor (Level 2). In this specialised course, you will become proficient in the compliance requirements, regulations, and laws applicable to constructing residential and commercial buildings up to three storeys. This program is ideal for those already working in the construction industry as building surveyors or certifiers looking to expand their skills and achieve Level 2 qualification, potentially enabling membership with the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors. The role of a building surveyor is crucial for ensuring the functionality and safety of the built environment, making your skills highly sought after in the construction industry.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
18 mo
Duration
Victoria University · Australia
Associate Degree in Hospitality and Hotel Management
Develop essential management and leadership skills for the hospitality and tourism industry with the Associate Degree in Hospitality and Hotel Management. This program provides hands-on experience in industry-standard facilities and equips you with a deep understanding of current industry trends and challenges. You'll gain practical knowledge in key operational, managerial, and organisational areas, preparing you for senior roles in this rapidly growing sector. The curriculum covers areas such as hotel operations, food and beverage management, accounting, marketing, and business law, taught by instructors with direct industry experience.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Victoria University · Australia
Bachelor of Applied Movement Sciences / Master of Physiotherapy
This dual degree program combines a Bachelor of Applied Movement Sciences with a Master of Physiotherapy, designed to equip students with advanced skills in physical rehabilitation and exercise. Over 4.5 years, you will learn to restore, maintain, and enhance mobility, function, and health for individuals of all ages and abilities. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, and a person-centred approach, fostering respect for cultural diversity and a commitment to thoughtful care. Graduates will be prepared for contemporary physiotherapy practice, with the Master of Physiotherapy component accredited by the Australian Physiotherapy Council, making graduates eligible for practice in Australia.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
54 mo
Duration
Victoria University · Australia
Bachelor of Architectural Design
The Bachelor of Architectural Design at Victoria University (VU) focuses on creating sustainable building designs that respond to community needs. This program incorporates principles from the circular economy, such as reuse, repurposing, and recycling, to minimize waste and pollution. Through real-world projects, site visits, and community collaboration, you will develop practical skills and industry knowledge. The curriculum emphasizes solving challenges faced by professionals in architecture and construction, preparing you for roles in government and private sectors. Graduates will possess a versatile skill set for building design and may pursue further studies to become registered architects.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Victoria University · Australia
Bachelor of Building Surveying
The Bachelor of Building Surveying at Victoria University (VU) equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to become a sought-after building surveyor, playing a crucial role in enhancing the safety and quality of the built environment. This specialized degree is unique in Victoria and focuses on developing your expertise through flexible online learning, requiring only nine hours of scheduled classes per week. Graduates are prepared for roles as registered building surveyors, accredited by the Victoria Building Authority (VBA) and the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors (AIBS). With practical experience, you'll be qualified to work on buildings of all sizes. The curriculum covers key areas such as building and construction legislation, auditing, inspection procedures, building codes and regulations, professional practice standards, building safety (including fire safety), and sustainable construction techniques. The growing construction industry faces a shortage of registered building surveyors, making the skills learned in this program highly in-demand. Graduates will be proficient in assessing building plans, overseeing construction compliance, ensuring structural safety, and confirming energy efficiency and accessibility.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Australia
full fundingAustralian 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.
full
Funding
€120k
Max
Apr 30, 2027
Deadline
full fundingForrest 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.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity 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.
full
Funding
€65k
Max
Mar 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingAustralian 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.
full
Funding
€60k
Max
Apr 30, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Sydney
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.
full
Funding
€45k
Max
Sep 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingUniversity 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.
full
Funding
€42k
Max
-18d left
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What is the VU Block Model®?
+
The VU Block Model® is an innovative learning approach where students focus on one subject at a time in smaller classes. This allows for deeper, more focused learning and helps students develop strong employability skills.
How much does it cost to study at Victoria University as an international student?
+
International tuition fees typically range from AUD 22,000 to AUD 38,000 per year, depending on the program. It is recommended to budget an additional AUD 24,000-29,000 annually for living costs in Melbourne.
Does Victoria University offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, Victoria University offers several scholarships to international students, including tuition fee reductions and accommodation support. Examples include the VU Block Model® International Scholarship and the STEM Accommodation Scholarship.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
For most undergraduate courses, an IELTS score of an overall 6.0 with no band below 6.0 is required. For TOEFL iBT, scores range from 70-80 depending on the specific course.
What kind of industry connections does Victoria University have?
+
Victoria University boasts over 4000 industry connections, which provide students with opportunities for real-world placements and valuable networking. This focus on practical experience is a key part of their curriculum.
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