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How to Get Into Medicine at Monash University as an International Student

Published on
March 10, 2026
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Your Path to Becoming a Doctor in Melbourne

If you want to become a doctor in Australia, you can choose between undergraduate and graduate medical programs.

Undergraduate medicine is typically a direct-entry pathway for school leavers applying straight from high school. Programs like the Bachelor of Medical Science/Doctor of Medicine (BMedSc/MD) at Monash University allow students to complete both degrees in a combined five-year program. Only a limited number of universities offer this pathway, and admission is highly competitive, requiring strong academic results.

Graduate medicine, on the other hand, is designed for students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree. This pathway is more widely available. A popular option is the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program at University of Melbourne. Graduate programs are generally four years long and focus on developing advanced clinical and research skills.

Whether you are pursuing the undergraduate or graduate route, you will need to sit the ISAT (International Student Admissions Test). The ISAT is a critical part of the application process for many Australian medical programs, especially for international students. It assesses your Critical Reasoning (CR) and Quantitative Reasoning (QR) skills rather than memorised facts. Performing well on the ISAT demonstrates your ability to think logically, solve problems efficiently, and manage your time under exam conditions—skills that are essential for medical study.

Why Study Medicine at Monash as an International Student?

Monash University’s Doctor of Medicine program gives students access to clinical training across a large network of hospitals, including Monash Health and Alfred Health. Students can enter the program through either a Direct Entry or Graduate Entry pathway, and it leads to the combined Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (BMedSc/MD) degree.

The BMedSc/MD program sits within a strong network that connects healthcare, research, and industry. It is well known for its work in medical research, especially in areas like cancer, neuroscience, infectious diseases, and public health. Research is an important part of the program, helping students build the skills needed to contribute to medical discoveries and improvements in global health.

Each year, around 90 international students are accepted in the undergraduate program, and 30  international students into the graduate entry Doctor of Medicine program. This gives international applicants the chance to study medicine at one of Australia’s leading universities and train in a highly regarded medical program.

How to Get Into Monash Medicine as an International Student

Monash considers three factors equally, with each accounting for 33.3% of the final assessment.

  • Year 12 or Equivalent Academic ResultsApplicants must be currently completing Year 12 (or an equivalent qualification), or have completed it within the past two years. During this time, applicants must not have started any form of tertiary study.
    • Overseas applicants must submit certified copies of their final results. Predicted or interim results are not accepted.
    • International students studying Year 12 in Australia must apply through Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC).
    • Applicants who have already started tertiary study (Certificate IV or higher) are not eligible for the Direct Entry pathway.
  • ISAT (International Student Admissions Test)Applicants must sit the International Student Admissions Test (ISAT). Interview invitations are based on overall ISAT performance.
    • A minimum total score of 170 is required.
    • Applicants must score at least 165 in both sections: Critical Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning.
    • When registering for the ISAT, students must nominate Monash University as a preference.
  • Interview (Multiple Mini Interview – MMI)
  • Shortlisted applicants are invited to complete a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI). This process helps the university assess applicants’ communication skills, ethical reasoning, and personal qualities important for success in medicine and healthcare.

What Scores Do You Need to Get Into Monash Medicine?

Chemistry English Year 12 Equivalent Score
VCE >30 >30 any Year 12 English or >35 in EAL 97.50
MUFY >75% English “A” and “B” >75% Minimum score of 90%
GCE A Levels D • B in O level English, OR
• B in AS level General Paper, OR
• D in A level General Paper
15 (Best three subjects)
Singapore A Levels D in Chemistry (H2) or Merit in Chemistry (H3) • B in ‘GCE O Level English’, OR
• B in ‘Literature in English (H1 level)’ or ‘General Paper (H1 level)’ OR
• D in ‘Knowledge and Inquiry (H2 Level)’ or ‘Literature in English (H2 Level)’ OR
• Merit in ‘Literature in English (H3 Level)’.
15 (Best three H2 subjects)
IB Diploma Program 5 in Standard or 4 in Higher Level • 5 or more in one SL subject: English A (Literature), English A (Language and Literature), or Literature and Performance, OR
• 4 or more in one HL subject: English A (Literature) or English A (Language and Literature), OR
• 6 in SL: English AB or English B, OR
• 5 in HL: English B.
Minimum of 39

Other Country Entry Requirements

Qualification Required Score
SAT 1420
Vietnam High School Diploma 9
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education 25
SMA 3 Indonesia - Scale of 100% (60% pass) 95%
Republic of Korea - College Scholastic Ability Test 380
UEC Malaysia 1
UNSW Foundation Studies 9.5
University of Melbourne, Trinity College Foundation Studies 95%

How Do I Apply to Monash Med?

*Date subject to change, please check the VTAC website for full dates.

Application Deadlines and Key Dates:

Note that timelines vary depending on the Year 12 (or equivalent) qualification you have completed.

Main Round Applicants

Application Stage Date
Complete ISAT. No later than 8 May 2026 (Test Window 2).
*Registrations for test window 2 close on 13 April 2026.*
Course applications close. 30 June
Interview offers released, selection based on ISAT results. 13 July*
Interviews held on Zoom. 21 & 22 July*
Course offers released on a rolling basis.
*Conditional offers are not issued for this course.*
August 2026

Monash University Foundation Year

*You must be completing MUFY in November 2026 and hold a conditional packaged offer for a Monash University destination degree commencing in February/March 2026. If you are completing MUFY in June 2026, or if you do not hold a packaged offer, you must follow the main round process and dates outlined above.

Application Stage Date
Complete ISAT. No later than 8 May 2026 (Test Window 2).
*Registrations for Test Window 2 close on 13 April 2026.*
Course applications close. 30 June
Interview offers released, selection based on ISAT results. 13 July*
Interviews held on Zoom. 21 & 22 July*
Course offers released on a rolling basis.
*Conditional offers are not issued for this course.*
December 2026

Completing Australian Year 12 Qualification or NCEA in New Zealand

Application Stage Date
Complete ISAT. No later than 07 May 2027 (Test Window 3).
*Registrations for Test Window 3 close on 13 July 2026.*
Course applications close. 28 September
Interview offers released, selection based on ISAT results. 8 October*
Interviews held on Zoom. 19 November*
Course offers released on a rolling basis.
*Conditional offers are not issued for this course.*
December 2026 and January 2027

What Is It Like Studying Medicine in Melbourne?

Living in Melbourne is an exciting experience for international students studying medicine. The city buzzes with café culture, parks, sporting events, live music, and a diverse food scene, giving students plenty of ways to explore and unwind outside of classes.

With students from over 70 countries, Monash University has a friendly, multicultural community where it’s easy to make friends and find your crowd. On-campus accommodation puts everything you need within reach, students have access to libraries, sports fields, pools, grocery stores, banks, and even restaurants just outside their doorstep. Note that applications usually open in September, so you can plan ahead.

Even though medical studies can be demanding, Melbourne makes it easy to balance work and play. Whether it’s grabbing brunch with classmates, catching a game, or exploring the city’s hidden gems, there’s always something to do beyond the lecture halls.

How Can Fraser’s Medical Help?

Fraser’s Medical supports international students with a personalised approach to medical school preparation. Through our ISAT Comprehensive Program, students receive 1-on-1 mentoring, tailored mock exams, and expert guidance to build confidence and master both the Critical Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning sections.

The program also helps students:

  • Improve English communication skills and adapt to the Australian educational system.
  • Develop key skills like time management, reasoning, and decision-making.
  • Adjust to the teaching styles, assessments, and expectations of Australian universities.

Fraser’s Medical ensures students are fully equipped to succeed in the ISAT and take the next step toward a medical career in Australia. Start your preparation today and give yourself the best chance of success!

Frequently Asked Questions

Click to reveal the answers!

1. How can international students study medicine in Melbourne?

International students can study medicine in Melbourne through either undergraduate programs (direct entry from high school) or graduate programs (after completing a bachelor’s degree). Universities like Monash University and the University of Melbourne offer both pathways.

2. What are the entry requirements for Monash University medicine?

Entry requirements include strong academic results, performance on the ISAT (International Student Admissions Test), and a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI). Undergraduate applicants must have completed Year 12 or equivalent, while graduate applicants need a completed bachelor’s degree and may need GAMSAT scores.

3. How long does it take to study medicine in Melbourne?

Undergraduate medicine programs like Monash’s BMedSc/MD take five years to complete. Graduate medicine programs, such as the University of Melbourne’s MD, typically take four years.

4. How competitive is medicine for international students in Melbourne?

Medicine is highly competitive for international students. Universities only offer a limited number of spots, and selection is based on academic performance, test scores, and interviews. Early preparation is recommended.

5. What is student life like in Melbourne?

Melbourne is a vibrant, multicultural city with students from over 70 countries. International students studying medicine can enjoy cafés, parks, sporting events, and cultural festivals. On-campus accommodation offers convenience and access to libraries, gyms, pools, and social spaces.

6. How much does it cost for international students to study medicine in Melbourne?

Tuition for international students varies by program but is generally high compared to domestic fees. Students should also budget for accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance. On-campus or shared housing can help reduce costs.

7. Can international students work while studying medicine in Melbourne?

Yes, international students on a valid student visa can work part-time, typically up to 40 hours per fortnight during study periods. Many students take on casual work to support living expenses while focusing on their studies.

8. What career opportunities are available after studying medicine in Melbourne?

Graduates can complete internships and residency placements in Australia, or pursue specialist training. Some international students also return to their home countries with a globally recognised medical qualification from Monash or Melbourne.

Where to Next?

If you found this article helpful, don’t stop here! Fraser’s Medical has more resources to help international students navigate medicine in Australia. Explore our other in-depth articles and tools to deepen your understanding, strengthen your preparation, and stay ahead in your medical journey:

  1. Fraser’s FREE ISAT Sample Exam
  2. Is the ISAT Hard?
  3. How to Prepare for the ISAT Exam?