Engineering in RMIT University for Indian Students

Joining an engineering program at RMIT University as an Indian student involves understanding the admission process, fees, accommodation options, and available scholarships. Here's a detailed guide:

1. Programs Offered

RMIT University offers a variety of engineering programs through its School of Engineering:

• Undergraduate Programs: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in various fields, including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Software, and Chemical Engineering.
• Postgraduate Programs: Master of Engineering, Master of Engineering (Professional), Master of Engineering Management, and other specialized programs such as Master of Robotics and Mechatronics.
• Doctoral Programs: Ph.D. programs in a variety of engineering disciplines.

2. Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admissions

• Academic Qualifications: Indian students need to complete Year 12 or an equivalent (such as CBSE, ICSE, or State Board). A minimum overall score of 70-85% in relevant subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry is typically required.
• English Proficiency: RMIT requires proof of English proficiency:
  • IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no individual band less than 6.0.
  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79, with a minimum of 13 in reading, 12 in listening, 18 in speaking, and 21 in writing.
  • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58.

Postgraduate Admissions

• Bachelor’s Degree: A relevant undergraduate degree in engineering or a related field with strong academic results (typically 65-70% or above).
• English Proficiency: The same English proficiency requirements as undergraduate programs.
• Work Experience (for some programs): Some postgraduate programs, like the Master of Engineering (Professional), may require relevant professional experience.

3. Application Process

• Undergraduate Programs: Apply directly through the RMIT Online Application System or through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC).
• Postgraduate Programs: Applications are submitted through the RMIT Online Application Portal.
• Deadlines:
  • Semester 1 (February start): Applications typically close by mid-December.
  • Semester 2 (July start): Applications generally close by late May.

4. Fees

• Undergraduate Programs: Tuition fees for Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) programs range from AUD 40,000 to 45,000 per year for international students.
• Postgraduate Programs: The tuition fees for Master’s programs in engineering range from AUD 40,000 to 50,000 annually, depending on the specific program.
• Ph.D. Programs: Fees for Ph.D. programs in engineering are generally around AUD 40,000 per year.

5. Accommodation

RMIT provides several options for both on-campus and off-campus accommodation:

On-Campus Accommodation

RMIT offers student accommodation at its RMIT Village and UniLodge at Melbourne City Campus, which are close to the university’s main campus. These housing options offer fully furnished rooms, shared kitchens, and study spaces:

• RMIT Village: Rents typically range from AUD 350 to 500 per week, depending on the room type.
• UniLodge: Pricing varies from AUD 300 to 500 per week, depending on the room size and amenities.

Off-Campus Accommodation

• Many students prefer renting private apartments or sharing houses near the university. Popular areas near RMIT’s city campus include Carlton, Brunswick, and North Melbourne.
• Off-campus rent typically ranges from AUD 200 to 450 per week, depending on location and type of accommodation.

Living Expenses

Including accommodation, food, transport, and other personal expenses, the estimated cost of living in Melbourne is about AUD 21,000 to 28,000 per year.

6. Scholarships

RMIT University offers several scholarships to international students, including Indian students, to support their academic journey.

Undergraduate Scholarships:

• RMIT International Excellence Scholarship: Offers a 25% tuition fee reduction for high-achieving international students.
• STEMM International Merit Scholarship: Provides a 10% tuition reduction for students applying to Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) programs.
• Engineering Excellence Scholarships: For exceptional undergraduate students in engineering, offering partial tuition fee reductions.

Postgraduate Scholarships:

• RMIT International Merit Scholarship: Offers a 10-25% tuition fee reduction for high-achieving postgraduate students.
• Australia Awards Scholarship: Fully-funded scholarships by the Australian Government for students from developing countries, including India. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

Research and Ph.D. Scholarships:

• RMIT Research Stipend Scholarship (RRSS): For Ph.D. and research master’s students, providing a stipend for living expenses and a tuition fee waiver.
• Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship: A government-funded scholarship for research students, covering tuition fees and living costs.

External Scholarships:

Indian students may also apply for external scholarships like:

• JN Tata Endowment for the Higher Education of Indians.
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships.

7. Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Once you have received an offer letter from RMIT, you must apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500). The visa process involves:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): You will receive this after accepting your offer and paying the tuition deposit.
• Proof of Financial Capacity: You need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses (around AUD 21,000 per year).
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): You must purchase OSHC for the duration of your studies.
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: Submit a personal statement proving your intent to study in Australia and return to your home country after graduation.

8. Work Opportunities

International students with a student visa are allowed to work part-time (up to 24 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks). This can help you cover living expenses while gaining valuable work experience.

9. Application Timeline

• Research Programs and Scholarships: Start at least 12 months in advance.
• Apply for Admission: Submit your application via RMIT’s portal or VTAC and ensure you meet the deadlines.
• Scholarship Applications: Apply for scholarships as early as possible, as deadlines may differ from program application deadlines.
• Visa Application: Once you receive your CoE, apply for your student visa.

10. Other Considerations

• Location: RMIT University is located in Melbourne, one of the world’s most livable cities, known for its vibrant culture, job opportunities, and large student community.
• Industry Connections: RMIT has strong ties to industry, offering excellent opportunities for internships, placements, and real-world projects through its Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programs.

If you need more detailed help with a specific part of the process, such as applying for scholarships or preparing your visa application, feel free to ask!