International engagement
Our diverse student community
With more than 100 years’ experience in teaching, learning and research, VU graduates can be assured that their qualification is being awarded from a university operating in a world-class education system.
In 2020, we had more than 11,000 international students studying a VU qualification in Australia and overseas, including more than:
- 3,500 studying in Melbourne from more than 100 countries, including international students sponsored by the Australian Government through the Australia Awards.
- 5,500 studying a VU course overseas with one of our international delivery partners.
Representing more than 100 nationalities, our students are attracted by our revolutionary approach to teaching and learning through the multi award-winning VU Block Model®, our range of entry pathways and study levels, and our strong industry connections.
We have great locations in three of the world’s best student cities – Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.
Start well, finish brilliantly
Our vision is to be a global leader in dual-sector learning and research by 2028.
International partnerships overseas
Throughout our history we have developed strong partnerships with foreign governments, sponsoring bodies and institutions. Servicing these partnerships and supporting students through specialised services is a particular focus at VU.
We are proud to educate more than 400 international scholarship recipients and sponsored students, who are enrolled in a diverse range of courses, from TAFE through to undergraduate and postgraduate coursework and higher degrees by research.
With more than 110 global exchange partnerships across 30 countries, we are increasing the opportunities for VU students to undertake an overseas study or internship experience – a strategic priority for the University.
Cultural & community in Australia
International industry partnerships
Through unique partnerships with global organisations such as the Confucius Institute or software solutions provider SAP, we provide opportunities for students and staff by:
- introducing a customised industry or cultural focus into our courses and units
- utilising partner expertise through research or mentorship
- organising cultural, community and industry events
- providing research and study opportunities in Australia and overseas.
Internationally-recognised courses
Many of our courses are developed with, and accredited by globally recognised industry bodies including:
- Certified Practising Accounts (CPA) Australia
- Engineers Australia (EA)
- Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport Australia (CILTA)
- Australian Computer Society (ACS)
- Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT)
- Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
Many Australian industry bodies work to ensure that Australian qualifications are relevant for Australian and international students looking to build a career overseas.
For example, our bachelor degrees in engineering are accredited by Engineers Australia, a signatory of the Washington Accord which recognises the equivalence of an accredited Australian engineering degree internationally.
Student & staff exchange
The University encourages students to complete part of their studies overseas by providing a range of short-term study tours and longer-term exchanges. These are often part-funded by the University.
We believe that our students will benefit greatly from completing part of their studies overseas.
Every year close to 400 VU students travel overseas on exchange, a short-term study tour or to conduct research, immersing themselves in another culture. VU has been extremely successful in receiving Australian Government funding to support these initiatives.
