Selecting Subjects
How do I select subjects?
- Look at the study areas.
- Search the University of Melbourne Handbook.
- University Faculty websites can also help in subject selection.
- You will need the subject names and six-digit codes for your application.
- Discuss your subject choices with an advisor at your home institution.
- Study Abroad students can take any combination of subjects from any faculty, subject to approval.
- Exchange students: If the University has a 'general' agreement with your home institution , you may take any combination of subjects from any faculty, subject to approval. If the exchange agreement with your home institution is with a specific faculty(s) , you may only take up to two subjects from any faculty outside of that agreement. Check the Faculty requirements and list of partner institutions.
Note for the February semester:The University Handbook for the new year is not published until October. Please select your subjects from the old Handbook and confirm when the new one is published.
How many subjects do I take?
Most students take four 12.5-point subjects per semester, totalling 50 points (full time). Some subjects, such as thesis or intensive subjects, may be 25 points or higher. Note that:
- The conditions of your student visa require a minimum of 37.5 points, but you must make sure that your subject load is acceptable to your home institution.
- You are not permitted to take more than 50 points in a semester.
- When applying, choose 75 points (6 standard subjects) and have them approved by your home institution. Once you arrive, you can make your final selection.
When do I select subjects?
- Select your subjects and discuss them with your home institution as soon as possible to make sure your choices are available in the semester you want.
- List the 6 subjects you have chosen on your application.
- Our course advisors will confirm that your subjects are available and appropriate. They may request subject outlines (syllabi) or other information on classes you have already taken.
- Note that there are quotas on some subjects in the biomedical sciences.
Can I change subjects?
You may change your subjects during the Enrolment and Orientation week or in the first two weeks of semester (see Key University dates webpage).