The Complete Guide To The Royal Melbourne Institute Of Technology (RMIT) University

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

RMIT University’s story began in 1887 as the Working Men’s College. Over the years, it transformed from a technical college to a global ace in varying fields. Today, it is in the top league of the QS World Ranking.

How? By prioritising its students, while upholding the motto “Perita manus, mens exculta” – a skilled hand, a cultivated mind.

Since its inception, the institution has

• Created many top-notch facilities
• Awarded 3,000 scholarships in 2022
• Given 12,456 students Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placements in 2022
• Achieved 19,730 industry placements for students in 2023
• Received 5+ QS⭐

Total student population	90,559
% of international students	20% coming from over 194 different countries
Teaching faculty-to-student ratio	Approximately 1:15
Graduate employability rate	2022: #1 in Australia, QS #74

1.2 The RMIT University Rankings 2025

According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings, RMIT ranks #123 globally. The courses offered also ranks in the Top 150 on the  QS Subject Rankings:

QS Subject Category	Ranking For 2025
Architecture and Built Environment	#21
Art and Design	#26
Communication and Media Studies	#51 – 100
Engineering – Civil and Structural	#51 – 100
Geography	#51 – 100
Library and Information Management	#51 – 100
Marketing	#51 – 100
Material Sciences	#77
Art and Humanities	#94
Accounting and Finance	#101 – 150
Agriculture and Forestry	#101 – 150
Performing Arts	#101 – 150
Engineering – Mechanical	#110
Engineering – Electrical and Electronic	#144
Business and Management Studies	#149

2. Student Life & Living Cost

2.1  The RMIT University Campuses

Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) takes “learning without borders” to another level.  Here, you can find its major buildings scattered across different parts of the city. The wall-less design opens up fresh air and perspectives.

Additionally, the campuses are within reach of public transportation and recreational spots. The places that caught our eye are

• Carlton and Fitzroy
• Mamak Melbourne
• Hometown Asian Supermarket
• The Comic’s Lounge
• Sydney Road
  

So, whether you are a coffee lover, a football fan, or a travel bug, there will always be something to do.

Melbourne City Campus

Key Highlights

• One of the university’s main “nests” with over 100 years of history.
• Lush green gardens, heritage-listed buildings, and modern facilities fill the parameters.
• The campus has several locations, including Crawley, Claremont, and Nedlands.
• It sits among many treasured landmarks, including King’s Park, Cottesloe Beach, and Fremantle. 

How To Get Around?
🗺️Heart of Melbourne

• We recommend a good cycle around Melbourne.
• Alternatively, you can travel by car, bus, tram, or train.
• Psst… there are bus connections from Melbourne International Airport and Avalon Airport Geelong) to the Southern Cross Station, Spencer Street.

Brunswick Campus

Key Highlights

• A “playground” for growing designers and artists, with local designers in the area.
• It sits next to markets, electric shops, hubs and the artistic (art, music) scene
• Focuses on design and education-related studies

How To Get Around?
🗺️6km north of the city
🗺️Minutes from Sydney road

• Bike? Public Transport? Why not both?
• 150m away from the Jewell Train Station.
• The nearest tram station is a 250m walk along Dawson Street.
  

Bundoora Campus

Key Highlights

• A relaxing area with plenty of greenery and wildlife.
• Home to many Engineering, Health & Medical Sciences and Education courses.
• A block away from interesting local sites and amenities, such as the Bundoora Park and the Bundoora Homestead Art Centre.

How To Get Around?
🗺️ 18km north-east of Melbourne’s city centre

• You can bike, drive or take public transport.
• The closest metros are the Thomastown, Lalor and Greensborough stations. From there, they connect to local buses and trams 👍👍
• The Yarra Tram at Route 86 takes you from Waterfront City Docklands to the Bundoora campus gates.

Students can also tour the area via the university’s free bus service (Bundoora Courtesy Bus).

Student Diversity: As voted the Best Student City, Melbourne is one of the favourites to study abroad. The multicultural city welcomed around 94,000 in 2024, with RMIT among the top destinations. To date, a total of 194 nationalities are on campus.

2.2 Learning Resources

Additionally, RMIT mastered the art of being committed by providing student-focused facilities. From cutting-edge labs to individual study spaces, it gives it all to make learning colourful. Take a look at these pictures!

2.3 Recreational Facilities

Our next part of the “campus tour” takes us to the R&R spots (relaxation and recreation). They are great places to unlock a new interest or hobby.

2.4 Student Activities

And after a long day, our classes can make us go

If this is also you, you might wanna drop by the campus grounds for a refreshment. The more we learn about our Melbourne friend, the more communal, artistic and sporting activities we uncover.
(And, nope. This ain’t a sponsored corner 🤫) On our list, we have

• Clubs and Societies
• RMIT Kirrip (Student community)
• Kirrip volunteer
• Student Free Play! (Sports)
• Group Fitness Classes
• Connect through creativity 
• Public Art Trail
• Wellbeing chats
• Webinars
• Monthly RMIT Games Day
• Industry Networking and Career Programmes
• Movie Screenings
• Casual Gatherings
• RMIT TV (student-run TV production)
• Catalyst (student publication)

2.5 Student Services  

There is Engineering Math and there is also RMIT’s Success Math. It is
Success = Academic Guidance + Wellbeing Assistance from

• Student Welfare Advisor
• 1-to-1 study consultations
• Learning hubs
• Studiosity (24/7 online study support)
• Equitable Learning Services (For learning difficulties)
• Peer mentoring and support
• Accommodation Services
• Medical Hub @RMIT (📍City Campus)
• Counselling & Psychological Services
• Health Clinic (📍Bundoora Campus)
• Emergency and Crisis Support
• Career Consultations and Online Support
• RMIT Chaplaincy

2.6 The RMIT University Student Accommodation

Is looking for a place to stay still on your to-do list? Look no further. The student lodgings near the university are

• Safe and secure
• Welcomed by enriching activities
• Easily accessible 
• Well-connected to the university, nearby amenities and public transport!

As a point of reference, you can refer to the list of nearby suburbs here.

For City Campus Students

Off-campus:

Nearby suburbs – Melbourne City, East Melbourne, Southbank, Docklands, Carlton, North Melbourne, West Melbourne, South Melbourne, Parkville, Fitzroy

For Bundoora Students

Off-campus:

Nearby suburbs – Bundoora, Mill Park

For Brunswick Students

Off-campus:

Nearby suburbs – Brunswick, Brunswick East, Brunswick West, Coburg, Moonee Ponds, Parkville, Princes Hill, Carlton North

*For other accommodation inquiries, you can ask our Study Abroad Consultant!

Cost of Living In Melbourne

As a Melbourne student, your weekly living expenses are around AUD1,807 (depending on your lifestyle). The estimated amount covers your rent, food/ groceries, utilities (gas and electricity), transportation, and telecommunication services (wifi and phone).

To be safe, have at least AUD 24,505 ready and submit a financial record during your visa application.

3. Courses, Fees & Scholarships

3.1 Courses You Can Study At RMIT University

The university transformed many lives with education. It has many Foundation, Diploma, and Degree options to tackle varying real-life challenges, including these.

Fields Of Studies	Courses
Diploma	Product Design, Business,  Accounting
Foundation	Communication and Social Context, Art, Design and Architecture, Engineering and Science
Architecture	Architecture, Interior Design, Urban Design
Art	Fine and Visual Art, Photography
Aviation	Aviation (Pilot Training), Applied Science (Aviation)
Biomedical Science	Biomedical Science, Health and Biomedical Sciences
Building	Civil Engineering, Building and Trades, Construction and Project Management, Urban Planning
Business	Accounting, Engineering Management, Economics and Finance, International Business
Communication	Advertising; Communication and Writing
Design	Innovation and Technology; Games and Interactive Media, Merchandising and Merchandising, Industrial, Furniture and Product Design
Education	Health and Physical Education, Teacher Education
Engineering	Aerospace Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechatronics and Manufacturing
Environment	Environment Science, Environment and Society
Fashion	Fashion and Textile; Merchandising
Health	Complementary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health; Pharmacy
Information Technology	Computer Science; Data Science; Information Technology
Law	Criminal Justice, Law, Criminology and Psychology, Legal Administration and Policy
Media	Music and Audiovisual, Screen and Media, Media and Communication
Property	Property and Valuation
Psychology	Psychology
Sciences	Laboratory Medicine, Mathematics and Statistics, Food and Technology, Space Science, Surveying and Geospatial Sciences
Social and Community	International Studies; Social Work, Public Policy, Languages, Translating and Interpreting

3.2 Course Fees At RMIT University

We have also saved you the hassle and compiled the full list of RMIT’s detailed course fees into one article below. Check it out and share it!

Coming Soon!

3.3 RMIT University Scholarships

These are some of the scholarships offered by RMIT University to international students. Check out the full list here. (Coming Soon)

Foundation Academic Scholarships	Value: AUD5,000 tuition fee waiver, one-off payment towards future tuition fees
Malaysia Australia Colombo Plan Commemoration (MACC) Scholarships	Value: AUD10,000 tuition fee waiver, one-off payment towards future tuition fees For 1st Year Malaysian students with good academic results, who have received an RMIT offer.
Medibank Scholarships	Value: AUD 2,000 tuition fee waiver, one-off payment towards future tuition fee For commencing students with good academic results and valid student visa. You must have received an offer letter and not an existing RMIT student.

3.4 Popular Courses At RMIT University

Arts & Design Courses

Enchanté (Eng: Nice to meet you). This course is ranked on the #26 position of QS Subject World Ranking.

It has many specialisations for all aspiring artists, such as

• Ceramics and sculpture
• Painting and drawing
• Video and sound
• Photography
• Graphic and communication design
• Game design and interactive media
• Industrial, furniture and product design
  

During your studies, you have many opportunities to expand your knowledge and build your skills. (Look forward to those industry briefs, portfolio building and presentations)

Above all, you learn with facilities, like the Fashion Hub, where you can express yourself and make your audience go,

Architecture and Built Environment Courses

Aside from the Arts, RMIT’s Architecture and Built Environment courses are well-known even from 40 years ago! (We heard that there were 4,791 enrolments in 2022)

One of the reasons for its popularity is its award-winning mentors. The university’s staff and alumni have been proud winners of the Victorian Architecture Medal. In 2023, Professor Naomi Stead won the Bate Smart Award For Architecture In Media – State Award for her articles in The Saturday Paper.

Next, let us talk about its love for hands-on practice since day 1 (yes, we mean really getting your hands on the subject). It developed Practice-Based Research opportunities and top-notch facilities. As such, you will gain the latest knowledge from the QS #25 and Australia’s #3.

Communication and Media Studies

You may wonder how RMIT became QS#42 and Australia’s #4 for this section. Fufufu, allow us to share the tea.

Melbourne is called the UNESCO City of Literature for its vibrant literacy culture and vast community. As such, the university can connect with big names, like the National Gallery of Victoria and ACMI (National Museum of Screen Culture), to give you practical experiences.

Check this out:

Secondly, it has student-focused curriculums. Throughout your degree, you have electives of various interests to choose from. Then, the institution provides work placement that aligns with your career goals. Together with a simulated learning environment, getting a job in the field will go as planned. Don’t you think?

Engineering Courses

Of course, we cannot end this corner without the Engineering courses, can we?

In 2022, RMIT received 9,007 enrollments for this study. There, these students pursue different courses that cater to maaaaany interests, such as

• Aerospace Engineering and Aviation
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering

These programmes come with Washington Record and Engineer Australia accreditations. As such, you can become an Engineer after you graduate from QS #51–#100 for Civil and Structural Engineering.

(🔖Tip: Check out the available double degrees and minors before applying. You might find something that might spark some inspiration and motivation.)

Student Stories:

3.5 Industry Partners

SEAMless transition into the workforce? Industry mentorship? These are just 2 of the reasons why this Australian university is the IT girl in town. From PhD projects to internships and housing learning resources, it ticked all the boxes as a top collaborator. 

If you are wondering who it is connected with, here is a list to give you an idea:

4. Entry Requirement & Intake Dates

4.1  The RMIT University Entry Requirements 2025

Minimum entry requirements for a Diploma:

• STPM – GPA 1.33 (D+ Average)
• UEC – GPA 1.30 (C7 Average)

Minimum entry requirements for a Foundation:

• SPM – 5D
• UEC – Average 60%

Minimum entry requirements for a Degree:

• UEC – GPA  2.20 (B4 Average)
• STPM – GPA 2.33 (C+ Average)
• A-levels – 7 (CDD Grade in 3 A-level subjects)
• IB Diploma – 25 points 
• SACE/WACE –  ATAR 73
• Canadian Programme (OSSD) –  65%

Minimum English requirement (IELTS)

• Foundation, Diploma: 5.5
• Degree: 6.5

Some courses may require you to earn higher entry requirements and additional qualifications.

4.2 The RMIT University Intake Periods For 2025

If you are planning to apply, these are important periods to note.

• Foundation: January, July
• Diploma: February, July
• Degree: February, July
• Postgraduate: February, July 

Please note that the intake periods may vary depending on the courses. For specific intake periods and dates, click here (Coming Soon!).

4.3  Admission Process To Australia

Studying in Australia can be tedious especially when applying to various universities before their application deadlines and ensuring proper documents are submitted to procure your student visa.

Here are some more helpful articles to help you navigate:

• Your Essential Study In Australia Guide For Malaysian Students
• Education Consultants And The 8 Steps To Study Abroad
• Top 10 Benefits Of Engaging A Higher Education Consultant

5. Student Testimonials & Alumni

Here are testimonials right from international students who chose RMIT University to be their academic destination:

6. Conclusion

RMIT University is clearly in a league of its own. To date, this Aussie university has

• Developed many students-focused facilities
• Formed over 200 industrial and educational connections
• Expanded its centres to Vietnam, Spain and Barcelona
• Over 160 Clubs and Societies to enrich you
• Produced over 500,000 alumni across 151 countries

What’s Next for RMIT? The journey is just beginning!

SEE OTHER UNI GUIDES

We took the liberty to compile all our University Guides and Course Fees Guides so you don’t have to go anywhere else!

And if you’re still not sure what to study, we have many Course Guide articles that will shed more light on the subject matter. Share with your friends!

Popular Courses To Study In Malaysia