University of Melbourne
Why UniMelb is the rank 1 university in Australia and the hardest to get into.
The University of Melbourne is ranked #31 in the world, based on a composite measure of QS, Times, ARWU, and Webometrics rankings. In Australia, UniMelb is ranked #1 out of 42 universities.
The University of Melbourne (Melbourne Uni) is Australia's 2nd-oldest university and may be the most prestigious. Melbourne Uni is often ranked as Australia's top university in world rankings. The main campus occupies a prime position just north of the city centre.
Website: unimelb.edu.au | Campuses: Melbourne (Parkville, Burnley, Southbank, Werribee), Shepparton [VIC]
World Ranking
Global Ranking: 31
On a composite measure of world university rankings, the University of Melbourne is ranked 31st. The prestigious research institution sits comfortably within the top 50 across four different ranking systems and QS rates them at 13.
QS ranking: 13
Times Higher Education: 39
ARWU: 37
Webometrics: 36
Australia Ranking
Australia Rank: 1
MelbUni is the rank 1 university in Australia, making it also the top university in Victoria and best Melbourne university. It beats out the University of Sydney, UNSW, the University of Queensland, Monash University, ANU, UWA, and Adelaide University.
Above: None
Below: University of Sydney (2), UNSW Sydney (3), Monash University (5)
Is Melbourne University Good?
The University of Melbourne is known for its prestigious world ranking and Group of Eight (Go8) status, enhancing the value of its degrees. Its huge Parkville campus, a short walk from Melbourne’s city centre, provides easy access to the CBD between classes.
Go8 university
Prime location
Lots to do
With over 200 clubs and societies, Melbourne Uni offers students plenty of extracurricular options, including academic, cultural, and recreational activities. This vibrant social environment supports a well-rounded student experience right in the heart of Melbourne.
Satisfaction: 76.6%
The University of Melbourne reviews show satisfaction levels of 74.8% for bachelor degrees and 78.4% for postgraduate students, slightly below national averages. Uni Reviews provides individual ratings and comments.
How Many Students?
Students: 72,244
The University of Melbourne had a total of 72,244 students in 2023, making it the 4th largest university in Australia. Melbourne is the 3rd biggest uni in Victoria.
- International students: 30,024 (42%)
- Postgraduate students: 39,802 (55%)
- Gender ratio: 59% Female : 41% Male
- On-campus students: 68,747 (95%)
Acceptance Rate
Acceptance Rate: 23%
The University of Melbourne acceptance rate is 23%. Among students with an ATAR that qualifies for university, 77% are unable to be admitted into their preferred degree.
Required ATAR: 89
It is very hard to get into Melbourne University, with a minimum ATAR of 89 on average. At the time of publishing, the ATAR threshold was 88 for Arts, 93 for Bachelor of Commerce, and 85 for Bachelor of Science.
Does Melbourne Uni Offer Online?
The University of Melbourne offers limited online study options. Around 186 bachelor and 3,246 postgraduate students study online, representing about 5% of enrolments. Most online students are enrolled in Health and Education courses. University of Melbourne Online primarily serves postgraduate students, with most programs delivered on-campus.
University of Melbourne Review
Independent review by Australian Universities. Discover what it’s really like to study at the University of Melbourne — Australia’s top-ranked university and a global leader in research.