International Exchange (CRICOS course code 017965G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Charles Sturt University (CSU) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is ideal for students wishing to immerse themselves in Australian academic culture without committing to a full degree program. As part of the Mixed Field Programmes category, it offers a broad-based educational experience. Charles Sturt University is a government-funded institution with CRICOS provider code 00005F, ensuring its courses meet rigorous Australian standards. With multiple delivery locations across New South Wales and Victoria, this program provides flexibility and access to vibrant student communities. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) presents this information directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you plan your study journey.
International Exchange (CRICOS 017965G) is a Non AQF Award offered by Charles Sturt University (CSU). As a non-award course, it does not lead to a formal qualification but provides valuable academic experience and cultural exposure. The course falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (129999), which encompasses interdisciplinary and general studies. Over 26 weeks, students engage in learning that may include subjects from multiple disciplines, fostering critical thinking and adaptability. This program is particularly suited for students who want to experience Australian tertiary education for a short period, often as part of an exchange agreement between institutions. With a tuition fee of A$0 (indicative) and non-tuition fees of A$180, the estimated total is only A$180, making it an affordable option for international students. However, additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application fees are not included. Charles Sturt University is a well-established regional university with a strong commitment to student support and international engagement. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and HeadStart Academy is your trusted guide to navigating them.
As a Non AQF Award under the broad category of Mixed Field Programmes, the International Exchange course does not follow a prescribed curriculum but instead offers a selection of units from various disciplines. Students typically choose from offerings in humanities, social sciences, business, and environmental studies, depending on the campus and availability. The focus is on developing intercultural competence, communication skills, and a global perspective. Since it is an exchange program, many students enroll through partner universities and transfer credits back to their home institution. The exact subjects are determined in consultation with the provider, but the goal is to provide a flexible and enriching academic experience. This level of study is ideal for students seeking to broaden their horizons without the commitment of a full degree. Always confirm specific course content with Charles Sturt University directly.
The International Exchange course is delivered over 26 weeks (~6 months), as recorded in the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual qualification). Students attend classes on a full-time basis, typically with a mix of lectures, tutorials, and self-directed study. The duration may be adjusted for part-time enrollment, but international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally required to maintain full-time study. Charles Sturt University offers this program across multiple campuses, allowing students to choose a location that suits their preferences. The language of instruction ensures that international students can fully participate in academic and social activities, with support available through the university's English language programs if needed.
Tuition for International Exchange at Charles Sturt University is A$0 (indicative), with non-tuition fees of A$180, bringing the estimated total to A$180. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Importantly, this total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students. OSHC costs vary by provider and duration but typically range from A$500 to A$1,000 per year for a single student. Living expenses also need to be budgeted: for example, weekly rent in Sydney averages A$300–$500, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$30–$50. In regional NSW cities like Bathurst or Dubbo, living costs are lower (rent A$200–$350 per week). The visa application charge for a Student visa is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always confirm current fees with Charles Sturt University at www.csu.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy provides indicative data only; no fees are guaranteed.
Entry requirements for International Exchange vary by provider and individual agreement. Generally, students must have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12 and may need to demonstrate proficiency in English. Charles Sturt University typically requires an IELTS overall score of 5.5–7.0, depending on the course level and field. Some students may be exempt if they have studied in English previously. Since this is an exchange program, many students come through partner universities with specific agreements. For direct enrollment, applicants should check the provider's website for detailed prerequisites. Foundation or pathway programs are not applicable for this non-award course. All international students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating genuine intention to study in Australia. HeadStart Academy advises consulting the official course page or contacting the institution for precise entry criteria.
No work component is included in this course. International Exchange does not have a mandatory work or placement requirement. This makes it a purely academic program, ideal for students focusing on cultural and educational exchange without the obligation of professional experience. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain part-time work experience and supplement their living costs while studying.
Charles Sturt University delivers International Exchange at six locations across New South Wales and Victoria: 77 Berry St, North Sydney (NSW 2060); Albury–Thurgoona; Bathurst; Dubbo; Level 3, 222 Bourke Street, Melbourne (VIC 3000); and Orange. Each campus offers a unique student experience. North Sydney is a bustling urban campus close to Sydney's CBD, with over 50 CRICOS-registered providers in the city and a large international student population. Bathurst and Orange provide regional settings with lower living costs and strong community feel. Albury–Thurgoona is on the border with Victoria, offering access to both states. Melbourne's campus is in the heart of the city, with over 40 providers and a vibrant multicultural environment. Dubbo offers a rural lifestyle with affordable housing. Public transport access varies: metropolitan campuses have excellent bus and train connections, while regional campuses may require a car. Living costs also differ—Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive, while regional cities are generally cheaper. Students should consider their preferences for urban vs. regional life when choosing a delivery location.
International students enrolled in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500), which allows full-time study in Australia. The visa requires proof of enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents may accompany the student with work rights on a Student Dependent visa (Subclass 500). All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring they meet Australian education standards and ESOS Act protections, which safeguard international students' tuition fees and academic quality. Visa conditions vary; always check the Department of Home Affairs for the latest requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa assistance.
Follow these three steps to apply for International Exchange at Charles Sturt University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and city. Confirm that the provider is CRICOS-registered (Charles Sturt University, code 00005F).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Charles Sturt University's website (www.csu.edu.au) to review admission requirements, English language proficiency, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with required documents (academic transcripts, English test scores, passport copy).
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the university issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
Explore more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy and plan your Australian study journey today.
International Exchange 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.