Study Abroad Scheme (CRICOS course code 013102J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This programme is designed for international students who wish to experience studying in Australia for a short period, earning credit that may be transferable to their home institution. As a Mixed Field Programme (129999 – Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.), it offers a flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum that allows students to explore subjects across multiple disciplines. The University of Newcastle is a government-funded university with CRICOS registration 00109J, ensuring all courses meet rigorous Australian quality standards. With campuses in Callaghan, Ourimbah, Newcastle City, and Sydney, students can choose a location that best suits their lifestyle. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), covering 26,433 courses across all study levels and states. ESOS Act protections apply to every CRICOS-registered course, giving international students legal rights and safeguards.
As a Non AQF Award, the Study Abroad Scheme does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but provides a rich academic and cultural experience. The field of education 'Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.' means the curriculum can be customised from a variety of disciplines offered by the university. Students typically select courses from areas such as arts, business, science, engineering, health, and law, depending on their interests and academic background. This flexibility allows participants to gain exposure to different teaching styles, develop cross-cultural communication skills, and build a global network. Graduates of similar programmes often report enhanced adaptability, independent learning abilities, and a broader worldview – skills highly valued by employers worldwide. While specific syllabi vary each semester, the programme is designed to be a holistic educational experience that complements the student's home degree.
The Study Abroad Scheme is delivered over 26 weeks (~6 months) as a single, stand-alone qualification. The language of instruction is English. The course is offered on a full-time basis, with students typically enrolling in 3–4 subjects per semester. Part-time study is not available for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) as full-time enrolment is a mandatory visa condition. The University of Newcastle uses a semester-based academic calendar, with intakes usually in February and July. As this is a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to a dual qualification. The programme is designed to be completed within the stated duration, providing an immersive yet time-efficient study abroad experience.
The indicative tuition fee for Study Abroad Scheme (013102J) at The University of Newcastle is A$10,800 for the 26-week programme. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$187, bringing the estimated total to A$10,987. Please note: these fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change – always confirm directly with the provider before applying (visit www.newcastle.edu.au for current fees). Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For example, OSHC for a single student for 12 months can cost around A$600–A$800, while living costs in Newcastle or Sydney range from A$1,500 to A$2,500 per month depending on accommodation type and lifestyle. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, travel, and living costs for the first year.
Entry requirements for the Study Abroad Scheme are determined by The University of Newcastle. As a general guide, applicants must have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12 or have prior tertiary study. English language proficiency is required – typically an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 7.0, depending on the level of subjects chosen. Other English tests such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English are also accepted. The University may also consider previous academic transcripts and may require a statement of purpose. Some subjects may have additional prerequisites. It is recommended to check the specific requirements on the university's website. While this course does not include foundation studies, students who do not meet direct entry may explore pathway options such as a Foundation Studies program at the university's international college. Consult the provider for the most accurate and up-to-date admission criteria.
No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work component. As an academic programme focused on coursework and cultural exchange, there are no internship, placement, or work experience requirements. 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 holidays. This work is optional and separate from the course. Students should ensure any employment does not interfere with their study commitments. The University of Newcastle offers career services and part-time job listings to help students find casual work if desired.
The Study Abroad Scheme is delivered at four campuses of The University of Newcastle: Callaghan (in the suburb of Callaghan, NSW, near Newcastle city centre), Central Coast (Ourimbah, NSW, about halfway between Sydney and Newcastle), Newcastle City (in the heart of Newcastle), and Sydney (Sydney CBD). Each campus offers access to modern facilities, libraries, and student support services. Newcastle is a vibrant coastal city with a large student population – over 40,000 students attend the university. Sydney, Australia's largest city, is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and has a diverse range of cultural and lifestyle options. The campuses are accessible by public transport: buses and trains connect the suburbs to city centres. Living costs vary: Newcastle is generally more affordable than Sydney, with weekly rent for a shared apartment around $200–$300, while Sydney is higher at about $300–$500. Both locations offer supermarkets, cafes, and recreational activities.
International students enrolling in the Study Abroad Scheme must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during academic semesters and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Key visa requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) issued by the university, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and proof of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student as of 2026), and travel. OSHC must be arranged before visa grant – it covers medical and hospital costs for the duration of study. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice – consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Study Abroad Scheme at The University of Newcastle: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that The University of Newcastle (CRICOS 00109J) offers the course you want. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.newcastle.edu.au, check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and a statement of purpose. Submit your application online. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this CoE to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide GTE statement, OSHC, and financial evidence. Await visa grant, then plan your travel to Australia.
Ready to start your study abroad journey? Explore Study Abroad Scheme (013102J) on The University of Newcastle website or use HeadStart Academy to compare other CRICOS-registered courses.
Study Abroad Scheme is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.