Pastoral care and student assistance services

"RMIT Students"RMIT College oversees and co-ordinates services to College students to ensure that you gain the greatest possible benefits for your university education. Listed below is the range of services available to College students.

Who can help me if I have a problem?

Almost all students find they need some form of assistance with study, practical or personal problems during their time at RMIT. There are several options for obtaining assistance should you need it. These are outlined below.

Your stream coordinator and teachers

Each intake and stream has a program coordinator who is responsible for supporting and assisting students. Your coordinator might also be one of your teachers but this is not always the case. However, your coordinator will meet regularly with all of your teachers.

The program coordinator is generally the first person you should go to if you need assistance with either your academic program or any other aspect of your life in Australia. Your coordinator will be able to refer you to the right place if you need more specialised help.

Your teachers are also willing to help you and you should not be afraid to ask them for help, especially in relation to the course (subject) that they are teaching. RMIT teachers and coordinators are experienced in working with international students and can generally understand the kinds of difficulties you may be facing.

RMIT Student Services

RMIT has many special units and services for its students and you may need to use some of these during your time with us. They are free of charge and your coordinator can put you in touch with any of these. Some examples are:

Your fellow students

In College programs, you will be placed in a group of about 25 other students with whom you will attend most of your classes. You will thus be able to get to know these students well and to form lasting friendships. You will also have opportunities to participate in activities with other College students.

RMIT also has an Association of International Students (RAIS) with a centrally located office and the student leaders in this association, who are all international students, can assist you with many of your concerns.

The College Mentoring Program

New RMIT college students are invited to join the College's mentor program. In this program, senior RMIT students, many of whom have completed Foundation Studies themselves, act as informal mentors by offering assistance and friendship to small groups of two or three new College students.

What other services are available to Foundation Studies Students?

As a College student you are part of RMIT University. You will receive an RMIT University Student Card and have access to all of the following services:

  • Libraries
  • Computer centres with free email and Internet access
  • Social and academic clubs and societies
  • Gymnasium and sport clubs
  • Medical and dental clinics
  • Legal and financial advice
  • Religious services, including a Chaplaincy service and Muslim prayer rooms

Student Administration

RMIT College has a specialised administration office to which students can go for all enquiries and assistance with enrolment, change of enrolment, fee enquiries, change of address notification, etc. The staff in this office have expert knowledge of all College programs and will be able to provide prompt, efficient and friendly help.

What happens when I arrive?

Airport pickup and temporary accommodation

RMIT International can arrange for your airport pickup and initial temporary accommodation when you first arrive in Melbourne. This allows time for you to become familiar with Melbourne and find suitable permanent accommodation before starting your classes.

Orientation to the University

Your first day at RMIT will generally consist of an orientation program and formal enrolment to the University.

During Orientation you will receive important information about the Foundation program and many of the services available at RMIT. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a tour of the City Campus as well as meeting your classmates and teachers over an informal lunch.

Your class timetable and booklist will be given to you by your Stream Coordinator when you enroll.

RMIT’s International Student Information and Support (ISIS) can provide personal assistance to all students on:

  • General information about Melbourne
  • How to apply for work permit visa (International Students)
  • How to obtain a tax file number
  • How to open a bank account
  • How to use the public transport
  • Any queries about RMIT

Where do Students Live?

There are a number of accommodation choices for students. RMIT Housing Service provides information and advice on finding accommodation, where to live, and your legal responsibilities.

Tuition fees and cost of living

Homestay/Full Board

Homestay is a good choice if you want to experience living in an Australian home while improving your English. RMIT can assist you to arrange this type of accommodation after your arrival in Melbourne. The average cost per week is AUD$170-200.

Private Student Hostel Accommodation

There are many private hostels close to RMIT University offering accommodation which includes a furnished bedroom, share bathroom, living and leisure areas. Computer facilities may also be available. The average cost per week is AUD$150-300.

Student Apartment Complexes

The latest trend in off-campus student housing is fully furnished student apartment complexes. The average cost per week is AUD$150-450.

Share and Rental Accommodation

Many students prefer a more independent lifestyle by sharing or renting a house or flat. The average cost per week is AUD$90-300.

RMIT Housing Service

Unresolved Issues

Occasionally issues may arise which are difficult to solve. In these situations the College will take action to provide you with the support necessary to resolve the outstanding issue.

Contact RMIT College