Study Abroad Program (CRICOS course code 017776A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course belongs to the field of Mixed Field Programmes (n.e.c.), designed for international students who want to experience Australian higher education without committing to a full degree. As part of HeadStart Academy's mission to help you navigate Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses, this page provides accurate, data-driven information sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Whether you choose to study at CDU's campuses in Darwin or Sydney, you'll benefit from ESOS Act protections that safeguard your tuition and welfare. Indicative tuition is A$8,700, making it an accessible option for a short-term study experience in Australia. This page covers everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, visa conditions, and how to apply. Remember, HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees — we're here to help you make an informed choice.
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The Study Abroad Program runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification with no dual award or VET national code. Study is typically full-time, with classes scheduled during standard university semesters. CDU offers two intakes per year (generally Semester 1 in February/March and Semester 2 in July/August), but check the provider's website for exact dates. The program does not include a foundation studies component – it is designed for students who already meet entry requirements. Because it is a Non AQF Award, there are no formal supervised research or thesis requirements. Instead, you will attend lectures, tutorials, and possibly laboratory sessions, depending on your chosen subjects. This structure allows you to immerse yourself in Australian academic culture without the pressure of a full degree program.
Indicative tuition for the Study Abroad Program is A$8,700, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$8,700. These fees are set by Charles Darwin University and are subject to change – always confirm current fees on the provider's website. Please note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders (approximately A$500–A$600 per year for single cover). You will also need to budget for living costs: the Australian Government recommends at least A$21,041 per year for a single student. In Darwin, weekly rent for a shared apartment averages $200–$300, while in Sydney it can be $300–$500. Additional costs include groceries ($80–$150 per week), transport ($30–$50 per week), and the student visa application charge (currently A$710). HeadStart Academy advises all students to plan a realistic budget and consult the Department of Home Affairs for the latest financial capacity requirements.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For the Study Abroad Program at CDU, you may need an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL iBT 60–78, PTE 50–58). Entry also requires you to have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. Some subject choices may have additional prerequisites (e.g., mathematics for science subjects). As this is a Non AQF Award, there are no specific pathway or foundation programs attached, but CDU offers English language courses (ELICOS) if you need to improve your English before starting. Always check the provider's official entry requirements, as they can change. International students must also demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and sufficient financial capacity. For detailed assessment, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs, but your primary purpose must remain study. Always check your visa conditions before starting any work, as exceeding work limits can affect your visa status.
This course is delivered at four CDU campuses: Casuarina Campus (CASUARINA, NT), Danala Education and Community Precinct (Darwin City, NT), Level 10, 815 George Street, Sydney (Sydney, NSW), and Waterfront Campus (Darwin City, NT). Darwin is the capital of the Northern Territory, with a small but diverse student population and a tropical climate. Public transport in Darwin is bus-based; a MyWay card gives access to all routes. Sydney, on the other hand, is Australia's largest city with excellent public transport (trains, buses, ferries). The Sydney campus is located in the CBD, close to Central Station and many amenities. Studying in Sydney means higher living costs but access to a vast multicultural environment. Darwin offers a more relaxed pace and lower cost of living. Both locations provide the same CRICOS-registered course with identical curriculum. Choose based on your lifestyle preference and budget. CDU has a total of around 24,000 students, including a significant international cohort.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for CRICOS course 017776A, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and evidence of sufficient funds (tuition fees, living costs, travel). Dependents may apply for a Student Dependent visa. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Visa processing time varies; apply well before course start. Remember, HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice – always consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. The ESOS Act ensures your tuition is protected and you have access to support services.
If you want a short-term international study experience without committing to a full degree, the Study Abroad Program is an excellent choice. It's ideal for students who want to improve English, experience Australian culture, or explore potential further study. However, if you need a formal qualification or intend to work in Australia long-term, consider a degree program. Mixed Field Programmes allow flexibility to sample different subjects, but you won't receive a named award. Consider your long-term goals, budget, and preferred location. Darwin offers a unique outback lifestyle and lower costs; Sydney provides urban buzz and more networking opportunities. CDU's strong support for Indigenous and international students adds value. This course is a stepping stone – use it to test the waters before committing to a longer program. Many students later transfer to a bachelor's degree at CDU or elsewhere, receiving credit for completed subjects.
Ready to apply? Follow the 3-step process below to start your Australian study adventure.
Study Abroad Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). 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.