Melbourne, world's 5th best student city, is emerging as a top choice for Indian students

Why Indian Students Are Choosing Melbourne to Study in 2026

With Melbourne ranked 5th globally in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 and the University of Melbourne sitting at #1 in Australia, it’s no surprise that thousands of Indian students are packing their bags for the land Down Under. But what makes Australia’s cultural capital stand out isn’t just academics, it’s the promise of a holistic life experience.

“Students can study at the country’s best university in Melbourne while also experiencing a diverse food offering, sport and entertainment all year round,” says Professor Michael Wesley, Deputy Vice–Chancellor (Global, Culture and Engagement), in an exclusive interview with Moneycontrol.com.

From cricket at the iconic MCG to over 200 student societies, a working vineyard on campus, and dual degrees that start in India and end in Melbourne, the University is crafting a 360-degree experience that Indian students, and their families, find irresistible.

A City That’s Built for Students

Melbourne’s world-class ranking isn’t just a matter of chance. As Wesley points out, the city is designed to offer students more than just classrooms.

“Melbourne is also ranked the fourth most liveable city in the world according to the 2025 Economist Intelligence Unit Global Liveability Index. Among the many reasons for the city’s high ranking is its active culture of arts and entertainment throughout the entire year,” he says.

Whether it’s attending a cricket match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), catching a Grand Slam tennis match, or hopping on a tram to one of the city’s 11 museums and galleries, students are never far from world-class experiences.

Adding to the charm is the city’s accessibility. “A new underground station, due to open later this year, is positioned right next to the University of Melbourne’s campus in Parkville,” Wesley shares. With a new metro loop and multiple city-wide connections, students have the whole of Melbourne at their feet, literally.

Melbourne’s Indian Connection: Culture, Curriculum, and Career

What truly sets Melbourne apart for Indian students is how seamlessly it blends familiarity with opportunity.

“Melbourne is one of the most culturally and socially diverse communities in Australia. Over 40% of its residents were born overseas,” Wesley notes. The university reflects this reality, with students from over 150 nationalities and a vibrant Indian diaspora.

And the global mindset extends into the classroom. “The University of Melbourne is the highest ranked Australian university across three major global rankings,” says Wesley, adding that students have access to some of the best teachers and academics in the world across disciplines like Engineering, Medicine, Commerce, Computer Science, and the Arts.

Tailored for India: Study Pathways at Every Level

Unlike traditional one-size-fits-all programs, the University offers Indian students customisable pathways.

“Our flexible curriculum lets students explore different subjects before choosing their path, while equipping them with critical thinking, adaptability, and interdisciplinary skills highly valued in today’s global workforce,” Wesley explains.

From the Bachelor of Science (Blended) program that allows students to study in India through partner institutions, to the dual-degree options where students complete two years in India and two in Melbourne, the university caters to diverse academic journeys.

“For those who choose the full overseas experience, they can complete their entire undergraduate or postgraduate degree with the University of Melbourne,” he says. Safety, top-notch healthcare, and cultural acceptance make Melbourne a natural choice.

Hot Courses, Hot Careers

The most popular undergraduate choices for Indian students remain consistent: Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Commerce, and Bachelor of Arts, each offering multiple majors that can lead into a wide range of career tracks.

At the postgraduate level, programs in Engineering, Information Technology, Management, Biotechnology, and Data Sciences continue to dominate. “The University of Melbourne offers more than 200 postgraduate degrees,” Wesley notes.

Graduates benefit from access to more than 100 research centres, including 30+ medical research institutes within the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct, along with exceptional libraries, a veterinary clinic, and yes, even a working vineyard.

Support That Goes Beyond the Syllabus

University life can be daunting, especially for international students far from home. That’s why the University of Melbourne has built a strong support ecosystem.

“The University of Melbourne offers a safe and supportive environment where international students are encouraged to build connections and engage in a wide range of unique experiences,” says Wesley.

Internships, mentorship programs, and networking events are just the beginning. Cultural integration is actively encouraged with on-campus celebrations of Holi, Diwali, and even the International Day of Yoga.

The University of Melbourne Student Union (UMSU) and Graduate Student Association organise international night markets, sporting events, and hobby-based activities, while UMSU International, a student-led body, offers dedicated support for foreign students.

Scholarships and Opportunities for Indian Talent

Indian students looking for financial support will find plenty of opportunities at Melbourne.

“We currently offer many scholarship opportunities to Indian students to study and research with the University of Melbourne. Nearly 500 students from India are studying at the University on scholarship,” Wesley reveals.

Flagship offerings include the Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship and the Melbourne India Postgraduate Academy, which supports joint PhDs and mentorship for top-tier research talent.

“University of Melbourne scholarships help us to attract and recognise the very best talent in India looking for an international degree in Melbourne,” he adds.

Explore scholarships here

Keeping it Safe, Affordable and Accessible

In an increasingly uncertain world, safety and affordability have become key decision-making factors for Indian families.

“We offer a comprehensive suite of student support services including a low-cost canteen, 24/7 security, a Safer Community program and free workshops, resources and counselling,” Wesley assures.

From traditional colleges to modern student apartments, a wide range of housing options are available. And with Australia's infrastructure and healthcare systems among the best in the world, families can feel confident about their child’s well-being.

Evolving with the Times: Hybrid Learning with a Human Touch

While hybrid education is on the rise globally, the University of Melbourne believes in preserving the magic of campus life.

“We believe that the best education combines the vibrant atmosphere of campus life with the flexibility of modern learning methods,” Wesley states.

Small-group tutorials, hands-on labs, and direct access to internationally renowned academics continue to be the heart of Melbourne’s undergraduate experience, even as the University incorporates online tools and digital resources.

What Melbourne Offers That Few Others Can

For Indian students considering Australia, Wesley leaves them with a message of assurance, and ambition.

“Students join a flourishing Indian diaspora community here in Melbourne and study alongside people from all around the world, benefitting from diverse opinions and cultural perspectives that greatly enrich their lives,” he says.

“The University of Melbourne is #19 best in the world, and our graduates join 500,000+ living alumni globally as their support network for life, armed with a global education that has prepared them for life and work.”

In a city where you can ride a tram to class, grab dosas near campus, catch a live opera or an IPL screening in the evening, and still find time to do meaningful academic work, Melbourne just might be the perfect blend of culture, community, and career for the Indian student of today.