Study Abroad (12 months) (CRICOS course code 017017G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Charles Sturt University (CSU) over 1 year. This program offers international students the opportunity to experience study in Australia without committing to a full degree. Hosted by Charles Sturt University, a government-funded institution with CRICOS registration 00005F, this course falls under Mixed Field Programmes (Field of Education 129999). Whether you want to improve your English, explore a new academic area, or simply immerse yourself in Australian campus life, this course provides a flexible, short-term option. With delivery locations across New South Wales and Victoria, including North Sydney, Melbourne, and regional campuses, you can choose an environment that suits your lifestyle. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness. HeadStart Academy is a free resource—no referral fees, no commissions—dedicated to helping you navigate Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses.
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Study Abroad (12 months) is a Non AQF Award within the Mixed Field Programmes category (Field of Education 129999). This field encompasses interdisciplinary or broad-based programmes that combine elements from multiple disciplines. Typically, such programs are designed to provide a foundational or exploratory academic experience. Students may select units from various faculties—such as arts, business, science, or health—crafting a study plan that meets their interests and goals. While the exact curriculum is set by Charles Sturt University, graduates of this level often gain improved academic English proficiency, cross-cultural communication skills, and a broader understanding of Australian higher education. The course does not lead to an Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) award but serves as a pathway for personal development, academic enrichment, or preparation for further study. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, content is delivered in English, and students benefit from CSU's established teaching standards.
According to the CRICOS register, Study Abroad (12 months) has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual awards). It does not include any mandatory work component. Students are expected to attend classes full-time, as is standard for student visa (Subclass 500) holders. Charles Sturt University may offer flexible study modes, including on-campus attendance at multiple delivery sites. The non-AQF nature means it is not a VET course, so no VET national code applies. International students should be aware that the duration is fixed at 52 weeks; extensions or part-time options are generally not available without affecting visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for Study Abroad (12 months) is A$18,880, with no non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$18,880. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is compulsory for international students and costs approximately A$600–$1,500 per year depending on provider. Living costs vary by location: for example, weekly rent in North Sydney averages $350–$550, while in regional centres like Bathurst it may be $200–$350. Groceries and transport add $150–$250 per week. Always confirm current fees directly with Charles Sturt University at www.csu.edu.au, as fees are indicative only and subject to change. CRICOS data is updated as at April 2026.
Entry requirements for Study Abroad (12 months) are set by Charles Sturt University and typically include the completion of secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 12. English language proficiency is required; while specific scores vary, many institutions ask for IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on the course level. Some providers may accept PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English. Because this is a non-AQF award, prior higher education qualifications are not usually required, but you may need to demonstrate a genuine intention to undertake the course. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry—check with CSU directly. As always, consult the provider's admissions page for precise criteria, as requirements can change.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder, you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Note that all work is subject to visa conditions and must not interfere with your study commitments.
Study Abroad (12 months) is delivered at multiple Charles Sturt University campuses: 77 Berry St, North Sydney, NSW 2060 (North Sydney); Albury-Thurgoona, NSW; Bathurst, NSW; Level 3, 222 Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000 (Melbourne); Orange, NSW; and Port Macquarie (7 Major Innes Road), NSW. Each location offers a distinct study experience. North Sydney and Melbourne are bustling urban centres with easy access to public transport, numerous student services, and diverse social opportunities. Regional campuses like Bathurst, Orange, Albury, and Port Macquarie provide a quieter, more community-focused environment with lower cost of living. For example, Bathurst has a strong student population with numerous CRICOS-registered providers, while Port Macquarie offers a coastal lifestyle. All campuses are supported by CSU's infrastructure and compliance with ESOS Act protections. When choosing a location, consider factors such as climate, housing availability, and proximity to support networks.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Charles Sturt University, evidence of genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependants accompanying you may also have work rights. All international students are protected by the ESOS Act, which safeguards tuition fees and ensures education quality. Remember: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. For personalised visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Mixed Field Programmes are ideal if you are exploring multiple academic interests or need to improve your English before committing to a degree. They offer flexibility in subject choice and can be a stepping stone to higher qualifications. However, they result in a non-AQF award, which may not be recognised for skilled migration or professional registration. If you seek a clear career pathway, consider a vocational or higher education qualification. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering specialised courses—use HeadStart Academy's filters to find options that match your goals.
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Study Abroad (12 months) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Sturt University (CSU). 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.