Standard Foundation Studies Program in Science (CRICOS course code 0100890) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd over 37 weeks (~9 months). This program is designed to prepare international students for undergraduate degrees in science-related fields at Western Sydney University. Located in Parramatta, a vibrant multicultural hub in Sydney's west, the course offers a pathway to higher education while immersing students in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic regions. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and more than 26,000 courses available across Australia, this program stands out for its focused science curriculum and strong articulation pathways. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03663C), Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd adheres to the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections. Whether you aim to study biomedical science, engineering, or environmental science, this foundation program equips you with the academic skills and subject knowledge needed for success.
Standard Foundation Studies Program in Science (CRICOS course code 0100890) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd over 37 weeks (~9 months). As a foundation studies course, it serves as a bridging program for international students who do not directly meet the entry requirements for undergraduate degrees. The program focuses on science disciplines, offering core subjects in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, along with academic English and study skills. Graduates can progress into a wide range of bachelor degrees at Western Sydney University, such as Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), or Bachelor of Biomedical Science. The course is taught entirely in English at the Parramatta campus, located at 2b-6 Hassall Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. This location is well-served by public transport, including trains, buses, and light rail, connecting students to Sydney's central business district and other major hubs. Parramatta itself is home to a large student population, with numerous cafés, libraries, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal study environment. The indicative tuition fee for the program is A$26,700, with additional non-tuition fees of A$225, bringing the estimated total to A$26,925. Please note that these fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026; always confirm current fees with the provider.
This foundation program falls under the field of education 'Mixed Field Programmes' (broad field 12) and specifically 'Other Mixed Field Programmes' (narrow field 1299). Courses in this category are designed to provide a broad-based preparation for tertiary study, combining general academic skills with introductory discipline-specific knowledge. For the Standard Foundation Studies Program in Science, students can expect to cover foundational concepts in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, alongside academic English, critical thinking, and research skills. While the exact syllabus is determined by the provider, the overall aim is to bridge the gap between secondary education and university-level science courses. Graduates will develop analytical and problem-solving skills, laboratory techniques, and effective communication abilities. This curriculum is tailored to meet the prerequisite knowledge for science degrees at Western Sydney University, ensuring a smooth transition. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the program is subject to quality assurance standards under the ESOS Act, guaranteeing that the education provided meets national benchmarks.
The Standard Foundation Studies Program in Science has a duration of 37 weeks (approximately 9 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The course is delivered full-time, on-campus, with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and does not include a work component. Students are expected to attend classes regularly and participate in laboratory sessions, tutorials, and assessments. The Parramatta campus offers modern facilities, including science laboratories and library resources. International students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are required to maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course attendance. Upon successful completion, students receive a certificate of achievement, which qualifies them for entry into selected bachelor degrees at Western Sydney University. It is important to note that this course is classified as Non AQF Award, meaning it is not part of the Australian Qualifications Framework but rather a pathway program.
The indicative tuition fee for the Standard Foundation Studies Program in Science is A$26,700, as per the CRICOS register. In addition, non-tuition fees (such as enrollment, materials, or administration charges) amount to A$225, bringing the estimated total to A$26,925. These fees are set by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. According to the Australian Department of Home Affairs, the annual cost of living for a single student is approximately A$24,505 (as of 2026), covering accommodation, food, transport, and other essentials. In Parramatta, weekly rent for shared accommodation can range from A$200 to A$350, with groceries around A$80–A$120 per week and a public transport weekly ticket around A$30–A$50. We recommend visiting the provider’s website for the most current fee schedule and to inquire about any scholarships or payment plans.
English language requirements vary by provider. For this course, it is typical to require an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 7.0, with no band below 5.0 to 6.0, depending on the course level. Acceptable alternatives include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Aside from English, applicants should have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12, with satisfactory grades in science and mathematics. Specific academic prerequisites may include a minimum GPA or subject-specific scores. As this is a foundation program, students who do not meet direct entry requirements for undergraduate degrees are encouraged to apply. Prior qualifications must be assessed by the provider. International students are advised to provide certified translations of academic transcripts. No work component is associated with this course, but students may be eligible for part-time work (48 hours per fortnight) under their student visa. For detailed entry information, contact Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd directly or consult a registered migration agent for visa-related queries.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Subclass 500 visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work must not interfere with study commitments. Students can seek employment in industries such as retail, hospitality, or administration to gain local experience and supplement income. The Parramatta area offers many job opportunities due to its proximity to Sydney's economic centers. It is important to adhere to visa conditions, as breaching work limits can result in visa cancellation. For guidance, students should refer to the Department of Home Affairs website or seek advice from their institution’s international student support services.
The Standard Foundation Studies Program in Science is delivered on-campus at 2b-6 Hassall Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, within the city of Parramatta, New South Wales. Parramatta is a major business and cultural district west of Sydney's central business district, known for its diverse community and student-friendly environment. The campus is easily accessible via Parramatta railway station (a 10-minute walk), multiple bus routes, and the Parramatta light rail service. The area boasts numerous cafes, restaurants, parks, and shopping centers, including Westfield Parramatta. With a large student population, Parramatta offers affordable accommodation options compared to inner Sydney. The city has over a dozen CRICOS-registered providers, including universities and colleges, making it an educational hub. Living costs in Parramatta are moderate; indicative weekly expenses include rent (A$250–A$350 for shared), groceries (A$80–A$120), and transport (A$30–A$50 on an Opal card). Studying in Parramatta provides a balanced lifestyle with access to Sydney's amenities and proximity to major employment areas.
International students enrolling in this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and part-time work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. They must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay, which covers medical and hospital costs. Financial capacity is a key requirement: students need to show sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, OSHC, and travel. The indicative total cost for this course is A$26,925, not including OSHC (approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year) and living expenses (A$24,505 per year). Visa processing times vary; we recommend applying at least 8 weeks before course start. Remember that HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Applying for Standard Foundation Studies Program in Science at Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd is straightforward: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers like this one, filtering by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is listed on the CRICOS register (03663C). Step 2: Apply directly to the institution. Check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts and English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and meet application deadlines. The provider’s website has the online application portal. Step 3: Upon acceptance, you will receive a Letter of Offer and then a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use the CoE to apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy provides resources to guide you through each step, but always verify details directly with the provider.
Parramatta is a dynamic city in the Greater Sydney region, home to a thriving international student community. With over 20 CRICOS-registered providers in the area, students have access to diverse educational opportunities. The cost of living is generally lower than in Sydney's inner suburbs, making it an attractive choice. Parramatta offers excellent public transport connections, including trains to Sydney CBD in about 30 minutes, and a growing light rail network. The city boasts modern infrastructure, including the Parramatta River foreshore walk, parks, and cultural venues like the Riverside Theatre. Students can find part-time work in local businesses, retail centers, and hospitality venues. When choosing to study here, consider your lifestyle preferences: Parramatta provides a more relaxed pace compared to central Sydney, while still offering urban amenities. It is especially suitable for students who prefer a quieter study environment with easy access to nature and recreational activities.
Start your journey to studying in Australia with HeadStart Academy – explore more courses at headstartacademy.com.au.
View the full Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd profile →
Standard 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.