Comparison
RMIT University vs Monash University
Monash University is a Group of Eight university: higher in the global rankings, more research-intensive, and in the top tuition band. RMIT University is not, which usually means lower fees, a more applied and industry-linked approach, and often easier entry. For many fields the difference in graduate outcomes is smaller than the ranking gap suggests.
On the lowest tuition on record, RMIT University (from A$40,000 a year) is the more affordable, below Monash University (from A$47,000). Tuition varies widely by course, so price your specific program.
Both are in Melbourne, so cost of living is roughly the same. The comparison is really about the universities themselves.
| RMIT University | Monash University | |
|---|---|---|
| City | Melbourne | Melbourne |
| Group of Eight | No | Yes |
| Regional (migration) | No | No |
| International tuition | from A$40,000/yr | from A$47,000/yr |
| First-year budget | A$76,000 to A$87,000 | A$83,000 to A$95,000 |
| English (IELTS) | 6.0 | 6.5 |
| Application fee | None | A$100 |
| Intakes | February, July | February, July |
| Selectivity | Competitive | Competitive |
Choose RMIT University if
- Lower tuition matters (from A$40,000 vs A$47,000)
- A lower English bar helps (IELTS 6.0)
- You would rather not pay an application fee
Choose Monash University if
- You want the Group of Eight name and research reputation
Who RMIT University suits
RMIT is the pick for design, architecture, media, and applied technology, with a distinctly practical, studio-based culture and a central Melbourne campus in the heart of the city. It suits students who want industry connection and a creative or technical focus rather than a traditional liberal-arts degree. Being in the CBD means higher living costs but excellent transport and part-time work options.
Who Monash University suits
Monash is Australia's largest university and a good fit for students who want breadth, research depth, and global mobility. It runs its own campuses in Malaysia and Indonesia, so a Melbourne-based degree can include an overseas semester without a separate exchange application. It is strong across pharmacy, engineering, medicine, and business. It is selective and large, which suits independent students more than those wanting a small-campus feel.
RMIT University vs Monash University: common questions
Is RMIT University or Monash University cheaper for international students?
RMIT University is generally cheaper, from A$40,000 a year against A$47,000. Add cost of living: both are in the same city, so that part is a wash.
Which is harder to get into, RMIT University or Monash University?
They are broadly similar on selectivity. Entry depends far more on the specific course than on the university, so check the requirements for the program you want.
Which is better for permanent residence, RMIT University or Monash University?
Neither has a structural advantage. Neither is regional, so neither earns the regional study points. PR depends on your occupation, points, and the invitation rounds, not the university.
Which is more prestigious, RMIT University or Monash University?
Monash University is a Group of Eight university and carries more of a research-reputation halo, especially with employers outside Australia. For many fields the practical difference in outcomes is small.
Can I apply to both RMIT University and Monash University?
Yes. Australian universities assess applications independently and many charge international students no application fee, so applying to both and comparing your offers is normal.
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Tuition figures are approximate and drawn from this site’s database, and selectivity is a band, not an official rate. This is general information, not admissions advice.