Study Abroad A (CRICOS course code 017634D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year (52 weeks). This course is designed for international students seeking a short-term academic experience in Australia without pursuing a full qualification. Offered across six campuses in Victoria, Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory, and New South Wales, it provides a pathway to explore Australian culture and education while studying at a CRICOS-registered provider. As with all courses listed on HeadStart Academy, this information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness. Whether you're considering a semester abroad or a year of study, this course offers flexibility and exposure to a mixed field programme.
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Study Abroad A (CRICOS course code 017634D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year (52 weeks). This course falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (12), specifically 1299 - Other Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. As a non-award course, it does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but allows international students to undertake university-level study without committing to a full degree. It is ideal for students who want to gain academic credits, improve English proficiency, or experience life at an Australian university. Australian Catholic University Limited (CRICOS 00004G) is a government-funded public university with campuses in major Australian cities, ensuring access to urban and regional study environments. All listed data comes directly from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, your guarantee of authenticity.
As a Mixed Field Programme, the course covers a broad interdisciplinary curriculum, often combining subjects from multiple disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, business, and sciences. The specific content is designed by Australian Catholic University Limited and may include elective units from various schools. Students typically develop transferable skills in critical thinking, communication, and cross-cultural understanding. Since this is a non-award course, the exact syllabus will depend on the study plan agreed upon with the university. International students should consult the provider for detailed subject options and any prerequisite subject requirements. The course aims to provide a holistic educational experience that can complement future studies or career paths.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual qualification). Full-time study is expected, consistent with student visa conditions. There is no online or part-time option listed. The standard academic year at Australian Catholic University typically includes two semesters, but students should confirm exact start dates and study load requirements with the provider. The language of instruction is English, so adequate proficiency is required (see entry requirements).
Indicative tuition fee: A$21,280 for the full course. Non-tuition fees: A$0 (as per CRICOS data). Estimated total cost: A$21,280. These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website: www.acu.edu.au. Australian Catholic University may also charge application or materials fees not captured in the CRICOS data. Budgeting for accommodation: weekly rent ranges from A$200–A$500 depending on campus city (e.g., Ballarat is cheaper than Sydney). A student visa requires proof of financial capacity covering tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student as of October 2024), and OSHC.
Entry requirements are set by Australian Catholic University Limited. English language requirements typically include IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent) depending on course level. For this Non AQF Award, the provider may require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent. Prior academic qualifications: usually completion of secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. No foundation studies component is associated with this course. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Always verify specific entry criteria with the provider, as requirements may change. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; consult a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa (Subclass 500) holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work must not interfere with course requirements. For more details on student work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The course is delivered at six Australian Catholic University campuses: - Ballarat Campus (Ballarat, VIC): Regional city with lower cost of living; approximately 1.5 hours from Melbourne. - Brisbane Campus (Banyo, QLD): Suburban campus in northern Brisbane, close to public transport. - Canberra Campus (Watson, ACT): National capital with a strong student community; rent typically A$300–A$450/week. - Melbourne Campus (Fitzroy, VIC): Inner-city campus near public transport and amenities; cost of living higher. - North Sydney Campus (North Sydney, NSW): Business district opposite Sydney CBD; rent among highest. - Strathfield Campus (Strathfield, NSW): Suburban campus in Sydney's inner west; good transport links. Each location offers a unique study environment. When choosing a campus, consider living costs, climate, and proximity to support services. All campuses are CRICOS-registered and subject to ESOS Act protections.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, holding OSHC for the duration, and complying with work limitations (48 hours/fortnight during term). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires demonstrating a genuine intention to study and return home. Financial capacity evidence (tuition + living costs + OSHC) is required. The current visa application charge is A$1,600 (from July 2024, subject to change). For detailed advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides general information only and is not a migration agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for Study Abroad A at Australian Catholic University Limited: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's database to compare courses and providers. Confirm that Australian Catholic University (CRICOS 00004G) is registered for this course (017634D). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit www.acu.edu.au for application forms, entry requirements, English test results, and deadlines. Submit required documents (transcripts, passport, English test scores, etc.). 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, ACU will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a visa application via the Department of Home Affairs, providing evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE. Visa outcomes are not guaranteed. Seek advice from a MARA agent if needed.
Ready to apply? Visit Australian Catholic University's website to start your application for Study Abroad A (CRICOS 017634D).
View the full Australian Catholic University Limited profile →
Study Abroad A 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.