Associate Degree in Engineering Technology

Associate Degree in Engineering Technology

UNDERGRADUATE

Build core skills choose from a speciality in aerospace, civil, computer and networking, automation, mechatronics engineering, and more.

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Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus and blended
Entry score:

ATAR 40.85*
Guaranteed Pathways: Various*

Duration:
Full-time 2 years
Fees:

Commonwealth supported places

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus and blended
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
Full-time 2 years
Fees:

AU$35,520 (2023 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City

Overview

Accredited by Engineers Australia, this course provides a flexible pathway to an engineering degree.

UG-AD026-careers.png

Launch your career in engineering at RMIT

Graduates may work in a range of fields including aerospace, civil and structures, computer and networks, electronics design, electrical systems and automation, mechatronics, mechanical design and product development.

The Associate Degree in Engineering has been designed to equip you with a broad theoretical and technical knowledge of the underlying principles of engineering. 

You will learn to analyse and interpret complex problems, communicate effectively to a range of stakeholders, and find effective solutions to the issues facing industry.

Offering six majors, you will get to choose to focus on mechanical, aerospace, advanced manufacturing and mechatronics, electrical and electronics, computer and network, or civil engineering. Each major will immerse you in the subject, giving you the specialist skills you need to pursue a career in your preferred area of engineering.

Animated student holding qualification

Guaranteed Pathway options available

Didn't get the ATAR you needed? Guaranteed Pathways lets you preference pathway packages in VTAC so you can secure your place in your goal degree and graduate with two internationally-recognised RMIT qualifications.

Why study engineering at RMIT?

Strong connections

Learn from professionals with current industry and research experience.

Professional development

Build important skills in communication and teamwork as well as engineering.

Industry accreditation

Undertake a broad range of majors accredited by Engineering Australia.

Details

In the first year, you'll learn fundamental principles of engineering that apply across different areas of engineering.

At the end of the first year, you’ll select your major, choosing between:

  • advanced manufacturing and mechatronics
  • aerospace engineering
  • civil engineering
  • computer and network engineering*
  • electrical and electronics engineering
  • mechanical engineering

You'll choose subjects relevant to your engineering major and undertake a real-world project to design, develop, and present a product. Upon graduating from this program you may be eligible for entry into the relevant bachelor degree program or you can work in a relevant field.

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The degree has an active learning approach. A key emphasis of the program is its linkages to current industry needs, so you graduate ready to launch your career.

This course is taught by professionals with current research and industry experience. Learning and teaching approaches include lectures, seminars, workshops, presentations, and group discussion work.

Blended learning options

Courses offered as part of blended learning programs include a meaningful blend of online, on-campus, and workplace based learning tailored to the type of study you undertake. This learning is active, prioritising tasks that involve exploration and development of skills and knowledge through interaction and engagement.

Online aspects provide positive benefits such as flexibility and adaptability using digital activities and materials, while also strengthening the interaction and connection with timetabled and on-campus experiences such as tutorials, practicals, or workshops.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this associate degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

Year 1

You’ll be introduced to fundamental engineering skills including:

  • drafting
  • use of hand and power tools
  • machine processes and manufacturing

You’ll also cover materials engineering, which includes:

  • metals
  • composites
  • plastics and adhesives

You’ll learn the processes used to construct objects from these materials and the external factors that can change the effectiveness of these materials. You’ll also develop skills in computer-aided drafting (CAD) using specialised software.

At the end of this year, you’ll choose your engineering major.

Year 2

You’ll choose subjects relevant to your engineering major. All majors emphasise professional and personal development, allowing you to build skills in:

  • communication
  • decision making
  • team leading

You’ll undertake an engineering project to design, develop, and present a product. The engineering project is carried out in conjunction with industry or simulates a real engineering environment.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Associate Degree in Engineering Technology
Program code: AD026
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Associate Degree in Engineering Technology
City Campus
2 years Full time
AD026
079303K
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years Full time
Plan code
AD026
CRICOS
079303K
View plan
Associate Degree in Engineering Technology
City Campus
2 years Full time
AD026
079303K
Location
City Campus
Duration
2 years Full time
Plan code
AD026
CRICOS
079303K
View plan

Note: The computer and network engineering major is not available for students who commence this course in the July/midyear intake.

VTAC code

If you are eligible* to apply via The Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC), copy and paste the below code into VTAC CourseSearch.

Plan/package title

VTAC code

Associate Degree in Engineering Technology AD026

 3200333661

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH1 

Engineering Technology (Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Adv Manufacturing and Mechatronics) (Honours)

3200332621

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH2 

Engineering Technology (Mechanical Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) (Honours)

 3200331051

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH4

Engineering Technology (Electrical and Electronics Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering) (Honours)

 3200311141

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH5 

Engineering Technology (Electrical and Electronics Major) (Associate Degree)/ Engineering (Electrical Engineering) (Honours)

 3200311151

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH6 

Engineering Technology (Mechanical Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Sustainable Systems Engineering) (Honours)

 3200311161

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH7 

Engineering Technology (Civil Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure) (Honours)

 3200332431

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH8 

Engineering Technology (Aerospace Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Aerospace Engineering) (Honours)

 3200332421

*Please ensure that you have checked the admissions requirements and apply page before applying.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

VTAC code

If you are eligible* to apply via The Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC), copy and paste the below code into VTAC CourseSearch.

  • Plan AD026 - 3200333663

*Please ensure that you have checked the admissions requirements and apply page before applying.

Career

This degree is aimed at students starting out in a career in engineering. It allows you to specialise in one of seven major engineering disciplines.

Aerospace graduates may work in the aerospace industry as an aircraft maintenance engineer or aerospace design engineer at paraprofessional level.

A civil major will allow you to work in civil and structural fields that include laboratory technicians, research assistants, construction supervisors, or CAD draftspeople.

A major in computer and network engineering will allow you to pursue a career in networking, internetworking, IP telephony, network design, or network support.

With a major in electrical and electronics, you can work in electronic design, service engineering, or microprocessor programming.

Students who major in mechanical or advanced manufacturing and mechatronics can work in roles including product design and process, production planner, or automation specialist.

 

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The following majors are fully accredited by Engineers Australia:

  • Civil Engineering
  • Computer and Network Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronics Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering.

The following major is provisionally accredited by Engineers Australia:

  • Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics.

The Sustainable Systems Engineering major is not yet accredited by Engineers Australia.

Graduates are eligible for graduate membership of Engineers Australia as an Engineering Associate.

Australia is one of eight countries that are signatories to the International Engineering Alliance, also known as the Dublin Accord, for engineering technicians. Graduates with this qualification are recognised in all countries that are signatories to the Accord.

Admissions

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 (or equivalent qualification).

Prerequisites

Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL and units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in Mathematics (any), or equivalent studies.

2023 ATAR*

The lowest selection rank plus any adjustment factors to receive an offer for semester 1 2023 for each stream are as follows:

Plan/package title

ATAR*

Associate Degree in Engineering Technology AD026

 40.85

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH1 

Engineering Technology (Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Adv Manufacturing and Mechatronics) (Honours)

40.60

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH2 

Engineering Technology (Mechanical Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) (Honours)

 40.45

Guaranteed Pathway packageAD026PATH4

Engineering Technology (Electrical and Electronics Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering) (Honours)

 51.10

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH5 

Engineering Technology (Electrical and Electronics Major) (Associate Degree)/ Engineering (Electrical Engineering) (Honours)

 42.50

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH6 

Engineering Technology (Mechanical Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Sustainable Systems Engineering) (Honours)

 56.25

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH7 

Engineering Technology (Civil Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure) (Honours)

 41.05

Guaranteed Pathway package AD026PATH8 

Engineering Technology (Aerospace Major) (Associate Degree)/Engineering (Aerospace Engineering) (Honours)

 49.20

Rankings and adjustment factors

Entry to this program is competitive. Eligible applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement plus any adjustment factors.

You may be eligible to receive adjustment factors which include equity access schemes and/or subject adjustments to a maximum of 28 aggregate adjustment points. For more information about what adjustment factors RMIT considers visit Admission to RMIT.

We will consider your entire academic record to determine your eligibility for entry. The highest level of education you have previously completed will usually determine how you are ranked.

Selection criteria by applicant type

Please select the highest level of education you have or will be completing in order to find out the selection criteria that applies to you, in addition to meeting the above entry requirements.

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Entry to this program is competitive. Eligible applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement. You will be ranked on your ATAR plus any adjustment factors.

Adjustment factors available only to applicants currently studying Year 12

School Network Access Program (SNAP)

  • The SNAP access scheme is designed to increase tertiary participation by giving priority access to RMIT diploma and degree programs to eligible applicants currently studying Year 12 at a SNAP partner school.

Adjustment factors available only to applicants currently studying Year 12 or whose highest qualification is a completed Year 12.

Subject adjustments

  • Satisfactory completion in Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics equals 1 aggregate point. 
  • Satisfactory completion in Physics equals 1 aggregate point.

Regional adjustments

  • RMIT automatically allocates adjustment factors to applicants from a low socio-economic status area for all programs that select primarily on ATAR. 
  • Low socio-economic status areas are determined by applying the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Socio-Economic Index for Areas (SEIFA) Index of Education and Occupation.

Equity access schemes

  • Equity access schemes take into account personal information and location, difficult circumstances, disadvantaged financial background and disability or medical condition that may have impacted on an applicant’s most recent academic performance. 
  • Find out more about the eligibility requirements for each Special Entry Access Scheme and RMIT access categories.
  • If you are applying through VTAC you should apply for the Special Entry Access Scheme.
  • If you are applying directly to RMIT you should apply for RMIT Access. The system will prompt you to do this during your application.

Elite Athlete Program

  • The RMIT Elite Athlete Program supports eligible elite and emerging athletes to achieve sporting and academic excellence, allowing students to balance the demands of both their studies and their athletic responsibilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

  • The Indigenous Access Program supports your application to RMIT through an informal interview process where you will receive help from the Ngarara Willim Centre. Additional consideration will be given if you have relevant life, work, education or training experience.

Entry to this program is competitive. Applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement, e.g., level of TAFE qualification completed (including any adjustment factors).

We will consider your entire academic record to determine your eligibility for entry. The highest level of education you have previously completed will usually determine how you are ranked.

You will be assigned a selection rank (comparable to an ATAR) based on your highest completed qualification:

  • Advanced Diploma: 81
  • Diploma: 72
  • Certificate IV: 54

Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)

You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice.

If you are applying to RMIT as an applicant with vocational education training, you may sit the STAT multiple choice if you:

  • are 19 years of age or over as of 1 January in the year in which you will start your studies and
  • have not been enrolled in secondary studies for at least two years and
  • have no prior secondary school (Year 12), VET studies, HE studies or relevant work experience that can be considered for entry, or these do not meet the minimum academic requirements for the program.

STAT results are valid for two years prior to the commencement of study and can be used to meet Year 12 English prerequisites. You are still required to meet all other program prerequisites or equivalents.

Learn more about RMIT STAT results including minimum STAT scores required to meet prerequisites.

You may be eligible for the following adjustment factors:

Equity access schemes

  • Equity access schemes take into account personal information and location, difficult circumstances, disadvantaged financial background and disability or medical condition that may have impacted on an applicant’s most recent academic performance. 
  • Find out more about the eligibility requirements for each Special Entry Access Scheme and RMIT access categories.
  • If you are applying through VTAC you should apply for the Special Entry Access Scheme.
  • If you are applying directly to RMIT you should apply for RMIT Access. The system will prompt you to do this during your application.

Elite Athlete Program

  • The RMIT Elite Athlete Program supports eligible elite and emerging athletes to achieve sporting and academic excellence, allowing students to balance the demands of both their studies and their athletic responsibilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

  • The Indigenous Access Program supports your application to RMIT through an informal interview process where you will receive help from the Ngarara Willim Centre. Additional consideration will be given if you have relevant life, work, education or training experience.

Entry to this program is competitive. Applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement, e.g., GPA (including any adjustment factors).

We will consider your entire academic record to determine your eligibility for entry. Previous fail grades in similar courses may affect your eligibility.

You must have satisfactorily completed at least four courses (subjects) (0.5 EFTSL) at an Australian undergraduate level (or overseas equivalent). You will be assigned a selection rank (comparable to an ATAR) based on your GPA.

Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)

You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice. If you are applying to RMIT as an applicant with higher education study, you may sit the STAT multiple choice if you:

  • are 19 years of age or over as of 1 January in the year in which you will start your studies and

  • have not been enrolled in secondary studies for at least two years and

  • have no prior secondary school (Year 12), VET studies, HE studies or relevant work experience that can be considered for entry, or these do not meet the minimum academic requirements for the program

STAT results are valid for two years prior to the commencement of study and can be used to meet Year 12 English prerequisites. You are still required to meet all other program prerequisites or equivalents.

Learn more about RMIT STAT results including minimum STAT scores required to meet prerequisites.

Personal statement

If you have been excluded from a program due to academic progress you are encouraged to submit a personal statement outlining the strategies you will adopt to ensure academic success.

If you are applying to RMIT through VTAC you can complete and submit the VTAC personal statement via your online VTAC account.

If you are applying direct to RMIT you can upload your completed personal statement via your online direct application.

You may be eligible for the following adjustment factors:

Equity access schemes

  • Equity access schemes take into account personal information and location, difficult circumstances, disadvantaged financial background and disability or medical condition that may have impacted on an applicant’s most recent academic performance. 
  • Find out more about the eligibility requirements for each Special Entry Access Scheme and RMIT access categories.
  • If you are applying through VTAC you should apply for the Special Entry Access Scheme.
  • If you are applying directly to RMIT you should apply for RMIT Access. The system will prompt you to do this during your application.

Elite Athlete Program

  • The RMIT Elite Athlete Program supports eligible elite and emerging athletes to achieve sporting and academic excellence, allowing students to balance the demands of both their studies and their athletic responsibilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

  • The Indigenous Access Program supports your application to RMIT through an informal interview process where you will receive help from the Ngarara Willim Centre. Additional consideration will be given if you have relevant life, work, education or training experience.

Entry to this program is competitive. Applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement, e.g., Special Tertiary Admission Test (STAT) score (including any adjustment factors).

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 (or equivalent qualification) and meet the stated prerequisites. 

Work and life experience does not provide any additional consideration for entry to this program. You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice.

Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)

You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice. If you are applying to RMIT as an applicant with work or life experience, you may sit the STAT multiple choice if you:

  • are 19 years of age or over as of 1 January in the year in which you will start your studies and

  • have not been enrolled in secondary studies for at least two years and

  • have no prior secondary school (Year 12), VET studies, HE studies or relevant work experience that can be considered for entry, or these do not meet the minimum academic requirements for the program

STAT results are valid for two years prior to the commencement of study and can be used to meet Year 12 English prerequisites. You are still required to meet all other program prerequisites or equivalents.

Learn more about RMIT STAT results including minimum STAT scores required to meet prerequisites.

You may be eligible for the following adjustment factors:

Subject adjustments

  • Satisfactory completion in Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics equals 1 aggregate point. 
  • Satisfactory completion in Physics equals 1 aggregate point.

Equity access schemes

  • Equity access schemes take into account personal information and location, difficult circumstances, disadvantaged financial background and disability or medical condition that may have impacted on an applicant’s most recent academic performance. 
  • Find out more about the eligibility requirements for each Special Entry Access Scheme and RMIT access categories.
  • If you are applying through VTAC you should apply for the Special Entry Access Scheme.
  • If you are applying directly to RMIT you should apply for RMIT Access. The system will prompt you to do this during your application.

Elite Athlete Program

  • The RMIT Elite Athlete Program supports eligible elite and emerging athletes to achieve sporting and academic excellence, allowing students to balance the demands of both their studies and their athletic responsibilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

  • The Indigenous Access Program supports your application to RMIT through an informal interview process where you will receive help from the Ngarara Willim Centre. Additional consideration will be given if you have relevant life, work, education or training experience.

Additional information

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View the ATAR profile and selection rank from students offered a place into this program wholly or partly on the basis of ATAR in the most relevant recent intake period.

The student profile provides insight into the likely peer group for this program.

*ATAR refers to the lowest selection rank to which an offer was made (including consideration of any adjustments) for current and recent Year 12 applicants.

RMIT is committed to providing transparency to the admissions process. In line with this commitment, we provide you with information that will help in making informed choices about your undergraduate study options. Find out more about admission to RMIT.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 or an equivalent senior secondary school qualification with a minimum average of 50% (see calculator below).

Equivalent qualifications may also include completion of the RMIT Foundation Studies program or a recognised post secondary diploma in the relevant discipline with the required grades.

Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee entry. Your application will still need to be assessed and accepted.

Entry score calculator
Minimum Score Required

Don’t meet the requirements?

Mathematics; or Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Units 3 and 4 in Mathematics (any), with a study score of at least 20.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this program you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.0 (with no individual band below 5.5)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 60 (with minimum of 10 in Reading, 9 in Listening, 16 in Speaking and 19 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 50 (with no communication band less than 42)
  • C1 Advanced: minimum of 169 with no less than 162 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.

Pathways

Animated character in front of RMIT pixel, with a flying degree above their head

Understanding pathways

Undertaking a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree can help you meet the entry requirements for your preferred course. These qualifications often provide credit, reducing the duration of your bachelor degree.

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Even though there are no formal pathways into this course, there are often other ways you can gain entry.

Guaranteed Pathways available

Didn't get the ATAR you needed for entry into this degree?

At RMIT we've got your back, with a range study options to help you achieve your goals, no matter your ATAR.

Guaranteed Pathways gives you the option to preference pathway packages when you apply to RMIT.

If you apply and are successful in gaining a place in a Guaranteed Pathway package, you will progress straight into the Bachelor Degree upon successful completion of the relevant vocational degree (otherwise known as TAFE) first.

With a Guaranteed Pathway package, you can graduate with two internationally-recognised RMIT qualifications.

This course offers pathways into further study at RMIT.

Graduates of this course will be eligible for exemptions from the courses below, subject to meeting each course’s entry requirements:

Please note: VTAC 3200332241 is no longer offered.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

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You can gain entry to this degree from RMIT Foundation Studies or a range of vocational study programs.

Coming from a partner institution?

RMIT has pathway arrangements with many partner institutions around the world.

If your institution has a pathway arrangement with RMIT you may be able to receive credit and reduce the time it will take to complete your preferred RMIT program.

Find out if your institution has a pathway arrangement with RMIT

If you have qualifications from an institution that is not an RMIT partner, credit into your RMIT program will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

You are guaranteed entry into a range of other RMIT programs when you successfully complete the Associate Degree in Engineering Technology.

You will receive four semesters of advanced standing (equivalent to 192 credit points) into the following programs and the major you complete determines the program you can enter:

Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics major - Bachelor of Engineering (Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics Engineering) (Honours)

Aerospace major - Bachelor of Engineering (Aerospace Engineering) (Honours)

Civil major - Bachelor of Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure) (Honours)

Computer and Network major -
Bachelor of Engineering (Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering) (Honours)

Electrical and Electronics major

Mechanical major - Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) (Honours)

Sustainable Systems major - Bachelor of Engineering (Sustainable Systems Engineering) (Honours)

Alternatively, you may be eligible for entry into other RMIT undergraduate programs.

Fees

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2023 indicative fees

In 2023, the annual student contribution amount (tuition fee) you will pay for a standard year of full-time study is between AU$4,124 to AU$15,142*.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$326 maximum fee for 2023.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

You may be eligible to apply for a HECS-HELP loan, which can be used to defer payment of up to the full amount of your student contribution fees. You may also be eligible to apply to defer payment of your SSAF through the SA-HELP loan scheme.

Learn more about fees for undergraduate study.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

New government eligibility rules in 2022 - low completion rates

From 2022, there are new government rules about eligibility for higher education student funding as part of the Australian Government’s Job-ready Graduates legislation. If you're starting a program in or after 2022 and are enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) or have a HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP loan, these changes affect you. For details, please see Low completion rate and government funding.

If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government.

Your share of the fee (student contribution) is set on an annual basis by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual enrolled courses, not the overall program.

How much can I expect to pay for my Commonwealth supported place?

The Australian Government has introduced changes to university funding and student contribution fees under its Job-ready Graduates Package. 

The fees in the table below apply to students who commence their program in 2023. Fees for continuing students are available at fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Each course (subject) falls into a band. The band determines the student contribution amount for the course.

Amounts listed in the table below are based on a standard, full-time study load (96 credit points per year) with all courses in the same band. A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load or for enrolment in courses (subjects) from a combination of bands.

You can learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees for units from different bands at Fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Maximum student contribution amount for Commonwealth supported places in 2023 for commencing students

Student contribution band by course (subject)

Maximum annual student contribution amount (per EFTSL) in 2023
Education, Postgraduate Clinical Psychology, English, Mathematics, Statistics, Nursing, Indigenous and Foreign Languages, Agriculture $4,124 per standard year
$515 per standard (12 credit point) course
Allied Health, Other Health, Built Environment, Computing, Visual and Performing Arts, Professional Pathway Psychology, Professional Pathway Social Work, Engineering, Surveying, Environmental Studies, Science, Pathology $8,301 per standard year
$1,037 per standard (12 credit point) course
Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science $11,800 per standard year
$1,475 per standard (12 credit point) course
Law, Accounting, Administration, Economics, Commerce, Communications, Society and Culture $15,142 per standard year
$1,892 per standard (12 credit point) course

Student Learning Entitlement

On 1 January 2022, the Government implemented the Student Learning Entitlement (SLE).

  • The SLE allows students 7 years of full-time subsidised study in Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP).
  • Your total SLE amount will be reduced in accordance with your overall study load in a CSP. 
  • Once you have utilised all your SLE, you can not longer study in a CSP.

For more information about SLE, visit Study Assist.

HECS-HELP Loans

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the HECS-HELP loan scheme, which allows eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) to defer payment of up to the full amount of their student contribution.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2023 is $326. 

For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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The annual tuition fee for 2023 is AU$35,520.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2023 commencement is AU$71,040.

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information