Police are stepping up security around the University of Melbourne after a string of night-time attacks on Chinese students in recent months.

Police believe gangs are behind a growing number of crimes against students attending the prestigious university in Parkville.

Investigators said they had been in close contact with staff and student representatives and there would be an increase in both uniformed and undercover police patrols of the precinct.

Police have also met with Chinese consulate officials to discuss the safety of Chinese nationals studying at the university.

They said no students had been physically harmed in the attacks.

"While no physical injuries have been inflicted, the events have understandably been quite confronting for the victims involved," Victoria Police said in a statement.

"Both overt and covert police patrols will be increased in and around the university precinct over coming weeks to provide a highly visible presence and deter criminal activity."

A number of arrests have also been made, they said.