RMIT has approved several accommodation options for under-18 overseas students to choose from. You need to stay in approved accommodation every night until you turn 18 years old.
RMIT has approved several accommodation options for under-18 overseas students to choose from. You need to stay in approved accommodation every night until you turn 18 years old.
Where you live can have a big impact on your life and experience as a student, so it is important to consider your choice carefully.
Accommodation options for students under 18 include:
Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) buildings are specially designed and built accommodation sites which cater to the needs of students. PBSA options are typically located close to universities and offer a range of room types and shared communal areas.
A homestay is a local family, couple or single person offering full board in their home. A homestay experience can be a great way to adjust to life in Melbourne and form relationships with a local family.
Homestay accommodation is subject to availability and may not be available to all students.
The RMIT Care Program supports the welfare and wellbeing of international students under the age of 18 years who are enrolled in studies at RMIT UP or at RMIT University. Under this program, RMIT offers ongoing monitoring and assistance with academic studies, accommodation, and wellbeing and welfare for the duration of enrolment, or until students reach their 18th birthday.
From 15 March 2026, participation in this program is mandatory for any international student who holds, or has applied for, a student visa and is or will be enrolled at RMIT while under the age of 18. This includes students who have secured welfare arrangements through RMIT and:
This program is designed to ensure student safety and wellbeing and to enable participants to gain maximum benefit from their study experience.
These approved caregiver companies specialise in supporting international students aged under 18:
If you need help choosing an accommodation option you or your agent can email us and we can assist.
If you need to change your arrangements after they have been approved, you must obtain approval from RMIT before the change happens.
It is a condition of your student visa to maintain an appropriate welfare arrangement during your stay in Australia. Not maintaining the arrangement may result in the cancellation of your student visa.
For help with welfare arrangement and general enquiries for under 18 arrangements, contact RMIT Under 18 International Student Welfare via the Student Connect Portal or email ISUnder18@rmit.edu.au.
Information for under 18 year olds planning to study at RMIT
RMIT has an international reputation for excellence, preparing graduates for success in a rapidly changing world.
A step-by-step guide for international students on how to apply to study at RMIT.
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