Melbourne has a habit of topping "most liveable city" lists, and after a week here you start to see why. It's a city that rewards curiosity - laneways, weekend markets, free galleries, and more places to eat than you could get through in a whole degree. For an international student, it's also one of the easier places in the world to feel at home.
Getting around
You'll learn the tram map fast. Melbourne runs the largest tram network in the world, and the city centre sits inside a Free Tram Zone, so short hops around town cost nothing.
For everything else you tap on with a Myki card across trams, trains and buses. Most of what students need day to day - campus, supermarkets, libraries, a night out - is only a short ride apart.
Working while you study
International students on a student visa can usually work part-time during study periods, with the exact limit set by your visa conditions, and more freely during scheduled breaks. A part-time job is a good way to cover some costs, practise your English and meet people outside class.
Conditions do change, so check what currently applies to your visa before you start rather than relying on what a friend did a couple of years ago.
Settling in
The first few weeks are the hardest anywhere new. Sort the practical things early - somewhere to live, a bank account, a local SIM, and your health cover - and the rest tends to fall into place.
Stockdale's West Melbourne campus keeps you close to the city centre, and our team can point you toward the right support when you're finding your feet. The International Students page covers admissions and English requirements in more detail.
Making the most of it
Say yes to things. Join a club, go to a free event, take the train to the bay on a day off. The students who enjoy Melbourne most are usually the ones who treat the city as part of their education, not just a backdrop to it.
Frequently asked questions
Is Melbourne a good city for international students?
Melbourne is consistently rated as one of the world's most liveable cities, with strong public transport, a large multicultural community, and plenty of student support - which makes settling in easier.
Can I work while studying in Melbourne?
International students on a student visa can usually work part-time during study periods and more freely during breaks, subject to current visa conditions. Always check the conditions attached to your own visa.
Where is Stockdale's campus in Melbourne?
Stockdale is located at Level 2, 120 Miller Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003, close to the city centre and public transport.
Ready to take the next step?
Explore the Bachelor of Information Technology (Data Analytics) or get in touch with our team to learn more about studying at Stockdale.
