Exchange guide RMIT University
Courses, housing, visa, campus life and exchange basics for studying at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia.
Snapshot
City-campus Melbourne exchange option with strong design, technology, business, media, and applied-learning energy.
Why students shortlist it
Melbourne's design, technology, and business university, with a city-centre campus woven into Melbourne's creative fabric. Strong in architecture, design, engineering, and business — known for applied, career-ready education.
Teaching languages: English (primary)
Before You Land
A few practical setup details students usually sort before arrival
Connectivity, insurance, and secure public WiFi are the boring things you only notice when you need them. Keep them on your checklist, but keep the guide itself front and centre.
Arrival Connectivity
Sort an eSIM before you land
Maps, ride apps, 2FA codes, and WhatsApp are usually the first things students need from the airport.
Coverage Check
Confirm your travel insurance
Even when the university gives guidance, students usually need to double-check what is covered before departure.
Public WiFi
Have a backup for shared networks
Campus halls, airports, and cafés are convenient, but many students prefer an extra privacy layer when they first arrive.
Exchange Basics
Requirements
Typical requirements include partner nomination, transcript, passport, English-language evidence if required, and course preferences.
Nomination Process
Your home university nominates you first. Then complete the RMIT exchange application and study plan.
| Semester | Nomination | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Semester intake | Varies by partner and intake | Check RMIT exchange page for current dates. |
Arrival Checklist
- Check campus location for each course.
- Compare CBD, Carlton, North Melbourne, and Brunswick housing.
- Set up myki and test commute.
- Join orientation and RMIT clubs.
Academics
Course Registration
Course approval depends on discipline, prerequisites, and timetable compatibility.
Credit System
RMIT uses local credit points; the home university converts approved study load.
Grading System
Australian grade bands apply; conversion is handled by the home university.
Exam Culture
Applied projects, studios, group work, and practical assessments may matter as much as final exams.
Tuition & Fees
| Student Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| EXCHANGE | AUD 0 tuition + AUD 480–700 OSHC + AUD 710 visa | Exchange tuition fully waived. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is MANDATORY: AUD 480–700 for a semester (Allianz Care, Bupa, Medibank). Must purchase BE… |
| Full degree – international | AUD 32,000–40,000/year | International tuition: Business/Design ~$32,000, Engineering/IT ~$36,000–40,000. Domestic ~$9,000 via HECS. RMIT also offers online degree tracks at lower ra… |
AUD 0 tuition + AUD 480–700 OSHC + AUD 710 visa
Exchange tuition fully waived. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is MANDATORY: AUD 480–700 for a semester (Allianz Care, Bupa, Medibank). Must purchase BE…
AUD 32,000–40,000/year
International tuition: Business/Design ~$32,000, Engineering/IT ~$36,000–40,000. Domestic ~$9,000 via HECS. RMIT also offers online degree tracks at lower ra…
Fees change annually — verify current rates on the official exchange office page
Where to Stay
Insurance & Campus Support
Mandatory Insurance
Yes. Valid health coverage is required for the exchange period.
EHIC Accepted
No
Campus Clinic
Use university student health/wellbeing services first for local care routing, prevention, counselling, and referrals.
Mental Health
Most universities route students through student health, wellbeing, or counselling services. Ask early, not only during exam stress.
Campus Services
Student Support Services (RMIT)
RMIT comprehensive student support: free counselling, study support, health clinics, financial welfare advice, career connect, and equitable learning services.
Student Life & Support (RMIT)
RMIT student life: community programs, Indigenous support (Ngarara Willim), sport and fitness, campus resources, and practical support for diverse student communities.
Equitable Learning Services (RMIT)
RMIT ELS: equal opportunity support for students with disability, long-term illness, or mental health conditions. Academic adjustments and carer support.
Student Life
Student Clubs
- RUSU clubs — 100+ across academic, cultural, political, and creative interests
- RMIT International Network — events for exchange students
- RMIT Sport — gyms, competitive teams, social sport
Buddy Program
RMIT Connect Buddy Program pairs incoming exchange students with current RMIT students for the first weeks; combine with Global Mobility welcome week for the easiest start.
Sports & Recreation
- RMIT Sport facilities at City campus and Bundoora (gym, group classes, indoor courts)
- Social sport leagues — basketball, futsal, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee
- Melbourne's free outdoor exercise spaces (Yarra River trails, Royal Park, Princes Park)
- Surfing weekends to Torquay or hiking in the Dandenong Ranges (both 1hr from city)
Your First 2 Weeks
- Confirm campus for each course — City, Brunswick, Bundoora are far apart.
- Activate myRMIT login and student ID for studio access.
- Open an Australian bank account.
- Get a myki card for Melbourne transit.
- Attend Global Mobility welcome week and a club fair.
Key Dates
Study plan approval
Before arrival
Important for applied and studio-based courses.
Orientation
Before classes
Fastest route into city-campus social life.
Application window (Semester 1, Feb intake)
August – October (prior year)
Apply via partner nomination + host portal. Visa processing takes 4–8 weeks.
Application window (Semester 2, Jul intake)
March – April
Same flow, mid-year intake. Confirm OSHC health cover before applying for visa.
Orientation & O-Week
Mid-February (Sem 1) or Mid-July (Sem 2)
Mandatory for international students. Clubs day, campus tours, banking + Medicare setup.