Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science (CRICOS course code 0100887) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This foundation program is designed for international students who wish to progress into undergraduate science degrees at Western Sydney University. The course provides a solid academic foundation in science subjects, including mathematics, chemistry, physics, and biology, along with English language and study skills development. Delivered at the Parramatta campus in NSW, the program prepares students for the rigours of university-level study. Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd is a CRICOS-registered provider (03663C) offering pathway programs to university degrees. As a CRICOS-registered course, Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science meets Australian government standards for international education. Students who successfully complete the program and meet the required grades can progress to selected bachelor degrees at Western Sydney University. The course also includes orientation and academic support services to help students adjust to studying in Australia.
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Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science (CRICOS course code 0100887) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd. The course is classified under the field of education 'Mixed Field Programmes' (12), specifically '129999 - Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.'. As a foundation studies program, it is designed for students who have completed secondary schooling in their home country but may not meet the direct entry requirements for an Australian bachelor degree. The program focuses on building academic and English language skills necessary for success in undergraduate science courses. The duration is 1 year and 1 month (55 weeks), delivered full-time in English. There is no dual qualification and no mandatory work component. Upon completion, students receive a Non AQF Award, which is a formal qualification but not part of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). However, it serves as a pathway to higher education. This course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets the quality standards required for international student enrolment. For more information about the provider, visit the Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd page on HeadStart Academy.
The Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science covers a broad range of subjects designed to prepare students for university-level science studies. While the specific curriculum is determined by the provider, typical foundation programs in this field include core units in academic English, mathematics, and laboratory skills. Students can expect to study introductory concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics, along with critical thinking and research methods. The program also emphasizes academic writing, presentation skills, and independent study techniques. Graduates of such programs are generally equipped with the foundational knowledge and skills to pursue undergraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields. It is important to note that this description is a general guide; for the exact syllabus, students should refer to the official course materials provided by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd upon application.
The Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science has a CRICOS-registered duration of 1 year and 1 month (55 weeks). The program is delivered full-time in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award). The study mode is on-campus, with classes held at the provider's delivery location in Parramatta, NSW. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per their student visa conditions. The program typically runs over two or three semesters, with scheduled breaks in between. Language of instruction is English, and students may need to demonstrate proficiency through an approved English language test. For more details on study modes and intakes, consult the provider's website.
The indicative tuition fee for the Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science is A$39,900. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$225, bringing the estimated total to A$40,125. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd. Please note that fees are subject to change and do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) and typically costs between A$500 and A$1,500 per year depending on coverage. Living costs vary by city; in Parramatta/Sydney, indicative weekly expenses for a single student are around A$500-$700 (rent, groceries, transport). Always confirm the latest fees directly with the provider before applying. For a detailed breakdown, visit the provider's website or contact their admissions office.
Entry requirements for the Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science are set by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd. Generally, applicants should have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12. English language proficiency is required; typical IELTS scores for foundation programs range from 5.5 to 6.0 overall (with no band below 5.0). Other accepted tests may include TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Academic prerequisites may include satisfactory grades in mathematics and science subjects. As this is a foundation/pathway program, it is designed for students who do not meet direct entry into a bachelor degree. Some providers also have age requirements (usually 17+). Because requirements can vary, it is essential to check the specific entry criteria on the provider's website or contact them directly. If English is not your first language, you may need to undertake additional English language training before starting the program.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This work is optional and must not interfere with study commitments. For more information on student work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science is delivered at: 2b-6 Hassall Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, Parramatta, New South Wales. Parramatta is a major commercial and cultural hub in Western Sydney, approximately 23 km west of the Sydney CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, buses, and light rail. Parramatta has a large student population and offers a variety of accommodation options, from on-campus housing to private rentals. Indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment in Parramatta is around A$250-$350. Groceries and transport costs are generally lower than in the Sydney CBD. The area is home to many CRICOS-registered providers, making it a popular study destination. For more information, visit the NSW state page on HeadStart Academy.
International students enrolled in this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting health requirements. OSHC is mandatory and covers medical and hospital costs. Students can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Dependents may accompany the student on a Student visa or apply for a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). It is important to comply with visa conditions, including maintaining full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science at Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses and institutions. Filter by study level (Non AQF Award), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and location (Parramatta, NSW).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, including English language test scores and academic qualifications. Prepare your documents (transcripts, passport, proof of English proficiency) and submit an application through the provider's online portal or via an education agent.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online. You must also arrange OSHC and demonstrate sufficient funds. For visa application assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Explore more foundation programs or start your application today at headstartacademy.com.au.
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Extended Foundation Studies Program in Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.