Professional Practicum - All Faculties - 16 weeks (CRICOS course code 019322D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 16 weeks. This course falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (129999) and is designed to provide students with practical professional experience across various disciplines. As a CRICOS-registered course (019322D), it is open to international students who meet the entry requirements. Located at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, New South Wales, this short-term program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on skills in a world-class university environment. At HeadStart Academy, we provide accurate, up-to-date information sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about your study in Australia. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring high standards of teaching and student support. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, UNSW stands out as a prestigious Group of Eight university.
This Non AQF Award in Mixed Field Programmes (129999) is a generalist professional practicum that allows students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. Because it is offered across all faculties, the program is interdisciplinary and tailored to individual student backgrounds. Graduates develop transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and project management—highly valued by employers. The course content typically includes workplace simulations, case studies, and reflective practice, though specific curriculum details are set by UNSW. For international students, this is an excellent way to gain ‘Australian work experience’ and build professional networks. The focus on practical application enhances employability and career readiness, making it a popular choice for those seeking to complement their main degree with hands-on learning. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the quality and delivery are monitored under the ESOS framework.
The Professional Practicum is delivered over 16 consecutive weeks, as recorded on the CRICOS register (019322D). It is a full-time program taught entirely in English. The course is a single qualification—not a dual or foundation program—meaning students focus solely on this practicum experience. Study mode is on-campus at UNSW's Kensington campus, with intensive sessions that may include workshops, seminars, and practical projects. The 16-week duration is ideal for international students looking to gain professional experience without a long-term commitment. UNSW operates on a trimester system, so this course may align with standard academic terms. Students are expected to attend classes regularly and comply with student visa attendance requirements (80% attendance for some courses, but always check with the provider). The language environment is fully immersive, helping non-native speakers improve their English in an academic and professional context.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$830, with non-tuition fees (such as materials, services, or administrative costs) of A$500, giving an estimated total of A$1,330. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by The University of New South Wales (UNSW). However, fees are subject to change—always confirm directly on the UNSW website (www.unsw.edu.au) before applying. Additionally, international students must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which costs approximately A$500–700 for 16 weeks of coverage. Living expenses in Sydney are higher than the national average: indicative weekly costs are rent A$250–450, groceries A$60–100, transport A$30–50, and other personal expenses A$100–200. The student visa (Subclass 500) application fee is A$710 (as of 2026). These are indicative only and do not form part of HeadStart Academy's advice. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs for current visa costs.
Entry requirements for this Non AQF Award are determined by The University of New South Wales (UNSW). Typically, applicants should be currently enrolled in a UNSW degree program or have a relevant academic background, as the practicum is designed to complement faculty studies. English language proficiency is required—most UNSW courses expect IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent), depending on the faculty. For this specific program, it is likely that students must meet the English level of their home faculty. Prior academic qualifications at a bachelor's level or above may be necessary. There are no foundation or pathway options specific to this course, but students who need to improve English can explore UNSW's language programs. Always check UNSW's official course pages for the most current entry criteria. HeadStart Academy provides this guidance for informational purposes only; we recommend contacting the institution directly or consulting a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Professional Practicum is an academic program with no embedded internship, placement, or employment requirement. Students are assessed through academic tasks rather than workplace hours. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This means you can seek casual employment in Sydney to supplement your income and gain Australian work experience, as long as it does not interfere with your studies. The lack of a compulsory work component gives you flexibility to arrange work around your academic schedule. Remember that you must maintain enrolment and satisfactory course progress to keep your visa valid.
The Professional Practicum is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington Campus, located in the eastern suburbs of Sydney, NSW. UNSW Kensington is a major education hub with excellent facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and student support services. The campus is accessible by public transport via bus routes from the city and the light rail (L3 Randwick line). Sydney itself is Australia's largest city and a top destination for international students, with over 200,000 international students enrolled across its institutions. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, diverse cuisines, and numerous job opportunities. Living costs are higher than in other Australian cities: average rent for a one-bedroom apartment near campus is A$400–600 per week, and a weekly budget of A$600–800 is recommended for a single student. UNSW is one of over 100 CRICOS-registered providers in Sydney, making it a competitive and dynamic study environment.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study the Professional Practicum. This visa requires you to be enrolled in a full-time CRICOS-registered course (019322D), maintain satisfactory attendance and course progress, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. You must also demonstrate Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) status, showing your intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled course breaks. You cannot work until your course has commenced. Financial capacity is assessed—you need enough funds for tuition, living costs ($21,041 per year for 2026), OSHC, and travel. The student visa also allows your partner and dependent children to accompany you (with appropriate visa conditions). Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest requirements. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only; we are not a registered migration agent and recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent for your specific case.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to find courses like this one. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field of education (Mixed Field Programmes), and location (Sydney). HeadStart Academy's free resource can help you compare options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: UNSW requires an online application through its international admissions portal. Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and any other documents specified. Check application deadlines (typically rolling or aligned with trimester start dates). Pay the application fee if required. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW issues your CoE, you can submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, GTE statement, and health insurance. Wait for visa grant before traveling to Australia. Remember: All listed courses on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your study rights under the ESOS Act.
Sydney is a world-class study destination with over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, including top universities like UNSW, University of Sydney, UTS, and many more. The city offers a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a strong job market. However, the cost of living is high—budget for A$600–800 per week for a single student. Sydney's climate is mild, with warm summers and cool winters, making it ideal for outdoor activities. If you prefer a quieter or more affordable city, consider other Australian capitals. For this professional practicum, being in Sydney gives you access to diverse industries and networking events. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences, budget, and career goals. Use HeadStart Academy's location guides to explore other states and cities before committing.
Learn more about studying at UNSW on the official university website.
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Professional Practicum - All Faculties - 16 weeks is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.