International students’ preference for studying in Australia might have dropped by a marginal percentage. But, both the University of Melbourne and the University of New South Wales have been able to retain a certain fraction of the total international student population.

According to the data released by Australian Education International, the University of Melbourne leads the chart with the largest number of international students.

The report confirmed that the University of Melbourne and the University of New South Wales have 14,165 and 13,123 students respectively. It also stated that there were 410,925 international students in Australia in 2013.

What pulls the international students to these two universities are not unknown. Both the universities are the most reputed education hubs in Australia. Being established in 1853, the University of Melbourne is a leader. Its teaching and research activities are truly global. The research, which is mostly Asia specific and understands the challenges of the region, has an impact and relevance to the society. It currently ranks 1 in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2014, 34 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2013-14, and 10 in QS World University Rankings 2013-14.

In the similar way, the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is best known for its true commitment towards creative research and education. It ranks 52 in the QS World University Ranking 2013-14. UNSW is the first university in the world to be conferred with five star plus rating by QS intelligence for two consecutive years, spanning 2012-13. Australian Good Universities guide 2014 awarded UNSW five star rating for three employability indicators such as job offer, starting salary and positive graduate outcomes.

Both the universities have maintained a good liaison and research activity. The University of Melbourne has linkage with Asialink, a non-academic center concerned with information, training and professional networks. The Confucius Institute, in association with Nanjing University, China, provides education to the Australian companies wishing to do business in China and the vice versa.

The Australian India Institute, in association with UNSW, La Trobe University and the University of Melbourne, strengthens the ties between Australia and India. The University of Melbourne is the member of the prestigious Universitas 21 and the Association of Pacific Rim Universities. It also became a member of the United Nations Academic Impact in 2012.  It has a research expenditure of $844 million per annum, which explains the magnitude of research conducted by the university.

Whereas, UNSW boasts its research expertise in photovoltaics, solar energy, quantum computing, interactive cinema and HIV/AIDS research. Its state-of-the-art labs, design studios, libraries and leisure facilities are the catch points. Recently it added world-class art and design gallery to its list.

The cost of education is indicative as it is subject to change considering many different factors. But normally for the University of Melbourne, the cost of study is calculated based on subject study load and subject fee. On an average it comes around $33,176 per annum excluding other expenditures such as admission, boarding and food. For UNSW, the cost is indicative too and it varies course wise. For example, if an international student enrolls himself or herself in the Faculty of Arts and Social Science with a credit value of 6 UOC (Unit of Credit), then that course is an undergraduate program and the cost would be $575 x 6 = $3450. 00

Both the universities have ample scholarship programs that ensure international students feel at ease. Interested students can check out the scholarship opportunities provided by the University of Melbourne and UNSW by simply clicking on the link.

The reason to study in Melbourne is always fascinating. Being the safest city in the world, it provides wonderful opportunities to live and work. The multicultural undertone of the city is promising. The welcoming vibes of the locals and the melting pot culture together offers an ultimate destination for life long experience. It will never be a wrong choice for a great start to your career!