Community leaders, including City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Peter Cox, welcomed students to the city at a launch on Tuesday. 

About 1300 new domestic and almost 50 international students have enrolled to study at Bendigo's La Trobe University campus this year. 

La Trobe University vice-chancellor John Dewar said he was pleased with the large number of international students studying at the campus this year. 

"The quality of a La Trobe education and the appeal of living in central Victoria is combining to put Bendigo on the international map," Mr Dewar said. 

"There is strong interest in a wide range of courses at this campus, which is a reflection of the quality of our teaching, the experience and skills of our teaching staff and the fact that Bendigo is such a great place to live and to study."

Several activities have been planned for Orientation Week this week, including a trivia night on Wednesday and mystery bus tour on Thursday. 

Mr Dewar said O-Week was a vital activity for first year students.  

"It introduces them to our city and our campus. La Trobe's diverse course offerings make studying in Bendigo attractive for students from around Victoria and across Australia," he said. 

"We want to share with students all the things that makes this city and campus so great."

Mr Dewar said the first group of students who had enrolled via the ASPIRE program had started their studies this year. The program provides early offers to student who demonstrate volunteering experience. 

“Our ASPIRE students have already demonstrated great leadership skills and a commitment to their community that will undoubtedly translate to academic success throughout their time at La Trobe," he said.