University of Melbourne welcomes refugee students through new settlement pathway

The University of Melbourne will open its doors to four refugee students under the Refugee Student Settlement Pathway (RSSP) pilot program in Semester 1, 2026.

The initiative aims to remove barriers to higher education for displaced students and support permanent settlement in Australia.

Developed in collaboration with the Australian Government, Skill Path, civil society organizations, and universities, the program provides refugee students with Special Humanitarian Visas and access to the same opportunities as domestic students.

Osamah, who fled Yemen’s civil war in 2017 and has been living in Malaysia, is the first of the students to join. He will begin a Master of Biotechnology next year.

“When we left Yemen, we were looking to go to a place that we could call home. I hope Australia will offer those opportunities,” Osamah said.

Having gained research experience during his undergraduate studies in Malaysia, Osamah hopes to explore biotechnology’s practical applications in industry.

“I want to experience the other side of biotech, which is the industry connection. And that's what the biotech program here at the university excels at,” he added.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) Professor Adrian Little emphasized the program’s broader significance.

“We know that a truly excellent campus is one that reflects the breadth and diversity of our global society. Welcoming talented students from different backgrounds enriches our learning environment, expands our perspective, and strengthens our ability to serve the public good,” he said.

Stephanie Cousins, University of Melbourne alumna and CEO of Skill Path, highlighted the comprehensive support provided to students.

“The way we've designed the program is to make sure the students know what's available to them. Everything from medical support to clubs and societies to financial and accommodation support, that's really what you need when you're a newcomer,” she said.

“There's enough support in the higher education sector to support refugees coming in. Not just universities, but students are ready to welcome them. You can see just how great an institution like this is for welcoming new people. Everything's here that they need,” she added.

Participants will receive tailored support, including financial aid, housing, and mentoring from a dedicated Student Welcome Group to ease settlement and integration.

Volunteers in the group are eligible for the Global Citizenship Melbourne Plus credential.

The pilot program will eventually place 20 refugee students across Australia in degrees aligned with the country’s workforce needs, offering pathways to both higher education and long-term settlement.