Exchange (Undergraduate) (CRICOS course code 021694B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Western Sydney University over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking a short-term study experience in Australia without committing to a full degree. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification but provides valuable academic and cultural exposure. Western Sydney University, a government-funded institution (CRICOS 00917K), offers this exchange program at its Parramatta campus, one of Sydney's major educational hubs. The course falls under Mixed Field Programmes (Field 12), encompassing interdisciplinary learning. With an indicative total cost of only A$2 (including tuition and non-tuition fees), this program is highly affordable, though students must budget for OSHC, living costs, and visa fees separately. Whether you're seeking to broaden your horizons or fulfill a semester abroad requirement, this exchange program offers a structured yet flexible pathway. HeadStart Academy provides free, CRICOS-sourced information to help you make informed decisions.
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Exchange (Undergraduate) (CRICOS course code 021694B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Western Sydney University over 1 year. The course is registered under the Mixed Field Programmes category (Field 12), specifically Other Mixed Field Programmes (1299), which covers interdisciplinary studies not elsewhere classified. As an exchange program, it allows international students to study at Western Sydney University for up to one year while earning credit towards their home institution's degree. The program is ideal for students wanting to experience Australian education and culture without completing a full qualification. Western Sydney University is a prominent government university with multiple campuses, and this course is offered at its Parramatta campus. Parramatta is a major business and cultural centre in Western Sydney, with a large student population and excellent public transport links to the Sydney CBD. As a CRICOS-registered course (021694B), it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act.
As an Exchange (Undergraduate) program, the curriculum is tailored to the student's home degree requirements rather than a fixed syllabus. Typically, students choose from a wide range of undergraduate subjects offered by Western Sydney University across disciplines such as arts, business, science, engineering, and health. The field of education (Mixed Field Programmes) reflects the interdisciplinary nature of exchange studies. Graduates gain cross-cultural communication skills, global perspectives, and academic credits transferable to their home institution. While specific subjects vary, the program emphasises adaptability, independent learning, and exposure to Australian teaching methods. Students are expected to engage in lectures, tutorials, and assessments in English, aligning with the university's English language requirements. This exchange opportunity enriches academic profiles and enhances employability in an increasingly globalised job market.
The Exchange (Undergraduate) course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course, meaning it does not lead to a dual award or foundation studies. Students are expected to study full-time, typically enrolling in four subjects per semester. The program is delivered on-campus at Western Sydney University's Parramatta campus, with no online or distance options specified. The year-long duration allows students to immerse themselves in Australian academic life while maintaining their home degree progression. It is important to note that the CRICOS duration is the maximum time allowed for the student visa; actual study may be shorter depending on the home institution's exchange agreement.
The indicative fees for Exchange (Undergraduate) are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition fee: A$1. Non-tuition fee: A$1. Estimated total: A$2. These fees are exceptionally low and likely represent a nominal or administrative charge, as exchange students often pay tuition to their home institution and are exempt from host university fees under bilateral agreements. However, these figures are indicative only and subject to change. Always confirm with Western Sydney University directly. Costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the Student visa application charge (Subclass 500). For reference, OSHC costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs in Sydney are around A$25,000–A$30,000 annually. For current fees, visit the Western Sydney University website: www.westernsydney.edu.au.
Entry requirements for Exchange (Undergraduate) are set by Western Sydney University and vary depending on the student's home institution and nominated subjects. Generally, students must be enrolled in a degree program at their home university and nominated by their institution for exchange. English language proficiency is required; typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the intended subjects. Some units may have higher requirements. Academic prerequisites include a satisfactory grade point average (often equivalent to a credit average or higher). Foundation or pathway options are not applicable as this is an exchange program. Students should consult their home university's study abroad office and Western Sydney University's exchange page for specific criteria. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly for the most accurate and current requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component, internship, or placement. The Exchange (Undergraduate) is purely academic, focusing on coursework and assessments. Students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may still work part-time (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks) but this is not part of the curriculum.
This course is delivered at Western Sydney University - Parramatta, located in Parramatta, New South Wales. Parramatta is a major city in Western Sydney, approximately 23 km west of the Sydney CBD. It is a thriving educational and business hub, home to several university campuses and a large student population. The campus is well-served by public transport (trains, buses, ferries) and offers modern facilities. Parramatta's cost of living is generally lower than Sydney's city centre, with indicative weekly rent for a room around A$200–$300, groceries A$60–$100, and a weekly transport pass A$40–$50. The area has a vibrant multicultural community, making it attractive for international students. Western Sydney University is the only CRICOS-registered provider offering this specific course in Parramatta under CRICOS 021694B.
International students enrolling in Exchange (Undergraduate) require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa permits full-time study and work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. OSHC is mandatory and must be arranged before visa grant. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). Students must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and adhere to visa conditions. Upon completing the exchange, students may need to leave Australia or apply for a further visa. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to start your exchange journey:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's free database to find exchange programs at CRICOS-registered institutions like Western Sydney University. Filter by course level, field, and city to confirm this course suits your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Contact Western Sydney University's international exchange office. Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS), and nomination from your home university. Note application deadlines (often semester-based). The university will assess your eligibility and issue a Letter of Offer if successful.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once you accept the offer and pay any required fees, Western Sydney University will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your Student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. After visa grant, arrange travel and accommodation.
Ready to apply? Follow the three-step application process above to begin your exchange at Western Sydney University. For personalised guidance, contact the university directly.
Exchange (Undergraduate) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University. 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.