Crowd pays Melbourne university student's $19,000 debt

A crowdfunding campaign that raised almost $20,000 has saved a Melbourne university student from expulsion and possible deportation.

Donations from 145 people have shocked economics student Sanduni Sulochana who is breathing much more easily after making a payment this week on her exploding University of Melbourne debt.

Close friend Thavisha Rambukwella said Ms Sulochana's family in Sri Lanka had found themselves unable to support their daughter in Melbourne.

That left Sanduni depressed, unable to cover $4500 of her fees due earlier this year and stressed about an $8000 payment due this week.

"It was hard for me to see her in this situation and listen to her be so negative about most things about her life," Ms Rambukwella told AAP.

"She had asked a few people for help but no one responded and her deadline was so soon that I decided to do something about it."

Thavisha was confident some people would help and set up a GoFundMe campaign - complete with pictures of a smiling Sanduni.

But Ms Rambukwella admits she was overwhelmed when $19,069 was donated, which will completely cover Ms Sulochana's final semester.

"It was amazing ... Sanduni is over the moon and in shock at how many people got behind her.

"It restored her faith in people and she is so happy right now, which is so nice to see."