Spend your January studying in Melbourne
'One of the best experiences of my life.'
That's how one student described Deakin's Australian Studies Summer School after spending three weeks studying, exploring Melbourne and making lifelong friendships.
Every January, students from around the world come together at Deakin's Melbourne Burwood Campus for the Summer School program. Over three weeks, they combine engaging classes, field trips and unforgettable experiences while earning credit towards their degree. Along the way, they discover Australia while becoming part of a truly international community. Students have joined the program from countries including the United States, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and India.
Study, explore and connect
Summer School is designed to help students make the most of their time in Australia, both inside and outside the classroom.
The program begins with a Welcome Session and Welcome Dinner, giving students the chance to meet fellow participants from around the world and start building friendships from day one.
The program also includes a city excursion to discover Melbourne's culture, history and iconic attractions.
For Malak from Stony Brook University in the United States, Summer School stood out from the moment she saw what was included. 'It was a picture of people in surfing gear. I even sent it to my friend and said, "We have to do this. Instead of spending the winter in New York City, come and spend the summer in Melbourne".'
For many students, the Surf Day excursion becomes the highlight of the program. Whether they're stepping onto a surfboard for the first time or simply taking in Victoria's spectacular coastline, it's an unforgettable introduction to Australian culture.
Despite never having surfed before – or even knowing how to swim – Malak embraced the experience. 'I don't even know how to swim, so I was really, really nervous going into it, but it was very, very easy.'
These shared experiences help students build friendships, discover Australia in new ways and create memories that last long after the program ends.
What Summer School is really like
Hear from students as they share what it's like to spend three weeks studying, exploring Melbourne and experiencing Australia.
Experience summer in Melbourne
January is one of the best times to experience Melbourne.
While much of the Northern Hemisphere is in the middle of winter, Summer School gives students the opportunity to spend three weeks enjoying Australia's warm summer. Between classes, they can explore Melbourne's renowned cafés, laneways and cultural attractions, relax by the beach, discover vibrant neighbourhoods and experience major events such as the Australian Open.
Whether it's trying something new, discovering the city with friends or making the most of long summer evenings, Melbourne becomes an integral part of the Summer School journey.
Consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, Melbourne offers the perfect setting to study, connect and make the most of your Australian experience.
Every January, students from around the world come together at Deakin for three weeks of study, exploration and unforgettable experiences.
From surfing to snorkelling, Summer School gives students plenty of chances to try something new.
Sharing meals is just one of the many ways students connect during Summer School.
Academic-led excursions bring Australia's history, culture and stories to life.
Summer in Melbourne brings major events like the Australian Open right into the Summer School experience.
Discover Melbourne's vibrant laneways, culture and hidden gems between classes.
Take in Melbourne from a new perspective while exploring one of Australia's most vibrant cities.
Exploring Melbourne is even better with new friends.
Melbourne's galleries and cultural attractions offer plenty to discover between classes.
From iconic coastlines to unforgettable day trips, Summer School offers plenty of opportunities to explore beyond Melbourne.
From first-time surfers to catching their first waves, Surf Day is all about trying something new.
A visit to Torquay isn't complete without exploring Australia's iconic surf culture.
Surf Day is a Summer School favourite and an unforgettable introduction to the Australian coastline.
More than three weeks
Summer School is about more than earning academic credit. It's a chance to experience Australian culture, build friendships with students from around the world and challenge yourself in ways that extend well beyond the classroom.
For Sierra from SUNY Cortland in the United States, Summer School left a lasting impression.
'Doing this was a very big step out of my comfort zone, but I would recommend it to everyone. It was just a great opportunity.'
Ready to make Melbourne your classroom this January? Applications for Deakin's 2027 Australian Studies Summer School are now open.
Explore the program to learn more about key dates, fees and how to apply.
