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.
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)
- Exchange and study abroad Welcome Day: Friday 19th February (compulsory)
- University Orientation: Monday 22 February to Friday 26 February
The University’s Key dates page lists all semester dates, teaching periods and examination periods.
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.
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 research program is designed for graduate researchers who want to complete a period of research as part of your research degree at your 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.
Additional opportunities
Frequently asked questions
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.
Yes. You can apply through the study abroad program if your institution doesn’t have an exchange agreement with Melbourne.
Exchange students pay tuition fees to their home institution, not the University of Melbourne.
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.