Interstate applicants

Get ready for your journey to Melbourne with these helpful resources on accommodation, scholarships and how to make the most of city life.

One of the world’s most exciting and diverse cities, Melbourne is a melting pot of cultures, commerce, creativity and cuisines.

You'll find something new around every corner, from art galleries and museums, hatted restaurants and bustling markets, and world-class sporting precincts.

Top things to do in Australia's cultural capital

Photo by Urlaubstracker on Unsplash

See the city from the air

Did you know Melbourne is the only city in the world where commercial hot air balloons are able to fly over the CBD? The 1-hour ride is well worth the early start, as you'll get to watch the city wake to a new day and (conditions permitting) witness the sky put on a dazzling technicolour display.

Photo by Slava Abramovitch on Unsplash

Visit the Melbourne Zoo

The world's first carbon-neutral zoo is home to all your favourite animals, including lions, gorillas, elephants and giraffes, plus a large collection of native wildlife in natural bush settings. If you're game, book in for a Roar n' Snore package, and camp overnight in the historic elephant exhibition.

Photo by Tony Liao on Unsplash

Explore Chinatown after dark

Fancy some cheap dumplings? What about a swanky cocktail followed by a round or two of karaoke? Melbourne's Chinatown is the longest continuous Chinese settlement in the Western World, a buzzing neon-lit enclave filled with basement bars, nightclubs, quirky arcades and fashion boutiques.

Fahmi Fakhrudin on Unsplash

Find a favourite coffee haunt (or two)

You may have heard this already, but nowhere does coffee like Melbourne. From hole-in-the-wall haunts down hidden laneways, to cavernous warehouses-cum-cafes, the city is scented year round with freshly ground beans. So just follow your nose to find your next favourite cup.

Photo by bobby hendry on Unsplash

Catch a live gig at the Espy

One of Melbourne's most iconic and storied live music venues, this sprawling five-floored pub located on St Kilda's foreshore promenade boasts three stages, 12 bars and two restaurants. There's live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from blues to punk to indie rock, and everything in between.

Photo by Cody Board on Unsplash

Immerse yourself in nature

Melbourne abounds in green spaces that you could easily spend a lazy afternoon in, but for a touch more adventure we recommend hitting the road and exploring the many hiking trails, lush forests, granite mountain peaks and white-sand beaches that lie just beyond the city limits.

There is a range of student accommodation options available at the University of Melbourne. From University-owned and partnered to traditional residential colleges, you’ll find a new home to suit you. University Accommodation offers a trusted and community-focused residential experience or opt for a college with a long and rich heritage.

Our accommodation options offer an inclusive room rate with furnishings, utilities, and internet; academic and staff support, onsite facilities such as study spaces, dining areas and music rooms; freshly prepared meals for college residents; and a range of cultural, social and sporting activities.

When to apply

Applications for University Accommodation are currently open. If you submit a first preference for Little Hall, The Lofts at Melbourne Connect or Lisa Bellear House, the application fee will go towards your rent once you move in to one of these residences.

Applications are also open for residential colleges and other select options.

We've compiled some recordings from last year's change of preference online event to help you take your next steps with confidence. Click on a topic below to view each video.

In this session, we'll look at all the communications, events and services you should expect in the coming months to prepare you for day one at Melbourne. We'll touch on accepting your offer, orientation activities, the Melbourne Commencement Ceremony, and more!

Watch this session to get advice on planning your course as a first-year student at Melbourne. We'll help you to understand your course structure and how to choose the right subjects for your study plan.

Hear from current students in the same position as you only a few years ago. Find out how they made the move, how they settled in and made friends, and what life is like living and studying in Melbourne.

Discover your accommodation options in both our University Accommodation and residential colleges, how to apply and what life will be like living on campus.

There's more to being a university student than just study. In this session, you'll find out what you can do outside the classroom with MU Sport, clubs and societies and more.

The journey to Melbourne is different for everyone. Watch this session to find out about the different pathway options, including bridging courses to help you meet subject prerequisites, additional consideration under Access Melbourne, and other alternate pathways.

Transitioning from high school to university can be a scary time. Watch this session to learn about all the ways university is different from high school, and get answers to your questions so you can feel confident for your first days at Melbourne in 2024.

Do you dream about studying overseas and going on exchange?

This session will introduce you to our Global Learning and Careers and Employability teams. You'll learn about the many opportunities available to Melbourne students throughout your degree – helping make the most of your three years.

Life at university is exciting and interesting, with regular opportunities to enrich your experience. It can also be challenging. Discover the extra support programs and self-management tools available for you to look after your wellbeing and health.

When might you receive an offer?

Depending on which part of the country you call home, you'll be considered for different offer rounds, beginning in December. Click below to find detailed information about VTAC change of preference and offer periods relevant to your home state.

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