Exchange and study abroad program options

Choose how you want to study at the University of Melbourne through exchange, study abroad or a research placement.

On this page

Compare your program options

The University of Melbourne offers three ways for inbound students to study. The right option depends on your home institution, study goals and whether you’re undertaking coursework or research. All students should also budget for visa costs, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), travel, accommodation and living expenses.

Program
Who it's for
Fees
How it works
Application process
Exchange
Students nominated by an approved University of Melbourne partner institution
Pay tuition fees to your home institution
Study at the University of Melbourne for one to two semesters
Your home institution must nominate you for exchange. You’ll need to meet our minimum entry requirements. Apply by the Melbourne application closing date.
Study abroad
Students whose institution is not an exchange partner, or who are applying outside an exchange agreement
Pay the University of Melbourne’s study abroad tuition fees
Study at the University of Melbourne for one or two semesters
Apply directly to the University of Melbourne or via an authorised education agent, or be nominated for study abroad by your home institution. You’ll need to meet the minimum entry requirements. Apply by the Melbourne application closing date.
Research
Graduate researchers completing a period of research as part of their home institution’s research degree
Tuition fees are typically waived
Undertake supervised research at the University of Melbourne for 3–12 months
Flexible application and start dates. You must have written agreement from a University of Melbourne academic to act as your temporary supervisor before applying.

Key semester dates

Start year intake 2027 (Semester 1/February–June)

The University’s Key dates page lists all semester dates, teaching periods and examination periods. Consider Flex Semester subjects with remote or early final assessments in Semester 1 and depart Melbourne before the examination period.

About exchange

Exchange is available if your home institution has a partnership agreement with the University of Melbourne and nominates you to participate.

You’ll remain enrolled at your home institution while studying at the University of Melbourne and continue to pay your tuition fees there.

Your home institution’s exchange office will support you through the nomination and approval process and advise how your Melbourne studies will count towards your degree.

Search exchange partners

About study abroad

Study abroad is available if your home institution does not have an exchange agreement with Melbourne, or if you’re applying outside an exchange program.

You’ll apply directly to the University of Melbourne or through an authorised education agent in your country, and pay the University of Melbourne study abroad tuition fees for your studies.

You should speak with your home institution about how your studies at Melbourne will be credited towards your degree.

About our research program

The program is designed for graduate researchers who seek to undertake research that contributes to their degree at their home institution.

Research placements are typically between 3–12 months and can start at any time of year.

You’ll need to arrange a University of Melbourne academic to supervise your research before applying. Entry requirements and application processes differ from exchange and study abroad coursework programs.

Research program

Additional opportunities

Are you an elite athlete?

If you’re an elite athlete, you may be eligible for additional support through the University’s high-performance program while studying on exchange or study abroad.

Learn more

Study your whole degree at Melbourne

If you’re planning to complete a full degree at the University of Melbourne, you’ll need to apply as an international undergraduate or graduate student instead.

Full degree options

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between exchange and study abroad?
Exchange is through a partner university, and you pay your home institution's fees. Study abroad is a direct application process in which you pay University of Melbourne fees.
Can I study at the University of Melbourne if my university isn’t an exchange partner?
Yes. You can apply through the study abroad program if your institution doesn’t have an exchange agreement with Melbourne.
Do I pay tuition fees as an exchange student?
Exchange students pay tuition fees to their home institution, not the University of Melbourne.
Which program should I choose?
This depends on your home institution and study goals. Contact your home institution’s study abroad or exchange office to determine which program to apply for. You can also submit an enquiry to the Global Learning team for advice on the best program for you.