Foundation Studies (CRICOS course code 0101567) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year. This program is designed for international students who need to build academic and English language skills before entering undergraduate study. As a CRICOS-registered course (00004G), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. The course is offered at three campuses: Blacktown (NSW), North Sydney (NSW), and Fitzroy (VIC). Indicative tuition is A$23,120 for the full 52 weeks. Foundation studies are a popular pathway for students who have completed secondary school in their home country but need additional preparation to meet Australian university entry requirements. Australian Catholic University Limited is a public university with a strong reputation in health, education, and arts disciplines. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, it's essential to choose a program that aligns with your goals. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, student visa implications, and how to apply.
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Foundation Studies at Australian Catholic University falls under the field of Society and Culture (broad field 09), specifically Other Society and Culture (0999). While the CRICOS register does not specify a detailed syllabus, foundation programs typically cover academic English, study skills, and introductory subjects in humanities, social sciences, or your intended degree area. Graduates develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills essential for university success. The Non AQF Award level means it is not part of the Australian Qualifications Framework but is widely recognised by Australian universities as a pathway program. Students should expect a curriculum designed to bridge the gap between secondary education and undergraduate study, with assessment through assignments, exams, and projects.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. This is a single qualification, not a dual award. Study modes typically include face-to-face classes, tutorials, and self-directed study. Students attend classes during standard academic semesters. The course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory attendance. The intensive 52-week structure allows students to complete the program within a calendar year and progress to undergraduate studies.
The indicative tuition fee for Foundation Studies at Australian Catholic University is A$23,120, with no separate non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. This brings the estimated total to A$23,120. However, this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For context, OSHC for a single student is approximately A$600–A$800 per year. Living costs in Australia are estimated by the Department of Home Affairs at A$21,041 per year for a single student, but actual costs vary by city. In Sydney, average weekly rent is around A$400–A$600 for shared accommodation; in Melbourne, it is similar. Always confirm current fees with the provider directly, as fees are set by institutions and subject to change. You can visit the Australian Catholic University website (www.acu.edu.au) for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
English language requirements vary by provider, but for foundation studies, a typical IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (with no band below 5.0) is common. Some providers may accept TOEFL, PTE Academic, or equivalent. Academic entry requirements generally include completion of secondary schooling in your home country with satisfactory grades. Since this is a pathway program, it is designed for students who do not yet meet direct entry to undergraduate courses. Australian Catholic University may also consider previous academic performance and relevant work experience. As foundation studies are intended to prepare you for university, you should also meet any prerequisites for your intended bachelor's degree. Check the provider's website for specific requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting the university for detailed entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, Student visa (Subclass 500) holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This provides an opportunity to gain work experience and support living costs. It's important to note that work rights are subject to visa conditions; always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current rules. While the course itself has no work component, students can seek part-time employment in sectors like hospitality, retail, or administration. Balancing work and study is essential for academic success.
Foundation Studies is delivered at three campuses of Australian Catholic University: Blacktown CBD Campus in Blacktown, NSW; North Sydney Campus in North Sydney, NSW; and Melbourne Campus in Fitzroy, VIC. Blacktown is a growing western Sydney suburb with a diverse population and affordable living costs compared to Sydney's central areas. North Sydney is a major business district with excellent public transport links to the city. Fitzroy is a vibrant inner-Melbourne suburb known for its arts and culture scene. Each campus provides access to university facilities such as libraries, student support services, and study spaces. When choosing a location, consider factors like climate, transport, cost of living, and proximity to your intended undergraduate university. Sydney and Melbourne are Australia's two largest cities, each with over 100,000 international students and a wide range of CRICOS-registered providers.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain this visa, you must be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (as this is), provide evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements. You will also need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. While on a Student visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during breaks. After completing Foundation Studies, you may apply for a new Student visa to pursue undergraduate studies. Note that this course is Non AQF and may not be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) unless it leads to a higher qualification. Always check visa conditions with the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide visa advice.
Applying for Foundation Studies at Australian Catholic University involves three key steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare Australian Catholic University's offering with others. Ensure the course meets your goals and budget.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Australian Catholic University's website to find the application form for international students. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), passport copy, and a personal statement. Check application deadlines – they typically occur several months before the start date.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once the university accepts your application, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply online for a Student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and meet GTE requirements. Plan for visa processing times (often 4–8 weeks).
1. How much does Foundation Studies cost at Australian Catholic University? The indicative tuition fee is A$23,120 for the full 52-week program. This does not include OSHC, living costs, or visa fees. Always check the provider's website for the latest fees.
2. How long is Foundation Studies? The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) full-time. It is a single qualification with no mandatory work component.
3. What are the entry requirements for Foundation Studies? English language requirements typically include IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Academic entry requires completion of secondary education. Specific requirements vary – check the Australian Catholic University website.
4. Where is Foundation Studies delivered? At three campuses: Blacktown (NSW), North Sydney (NSW), and Fitzroy (VIC). Choose the location that best suits your study and lifestyle preferences.
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Foundation Studies is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Catholic University Limited. 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.