Introductory Academic Program (IAP) (CRICOS course code 022173G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 5 weeks. This program is designed to help international students transition into the Australian academic environment, focusing on general education skills such as academic writing, research methods, and intercultural communication. UNSW, a Group of Eight university located in Kensington, Sydney, is a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G) offering this short, intensive course to prepare students for further studies in Australia. As a HeadStart Academy resource, we provide accurate, up-to-date information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you study with confidence under the ESOS Act protections. Whether you are planning to pursue a degree at UNSW or simply want to experience Australian education, this course offers a solid foundation. Read on for details on fees, entry requirements, and how to apply.
The Introductory Academic Program (IAP) (CRICOS 022173G) is a Non AQF Award course offered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (CRICOS 00098G). This 5-week program falls under the field of education '12 - Mixed Field Programmes' (General Education Programmes, n.e.c.). It is designed for international students who need to develop academic skills before commencing mainstream studies in Australia. The course language is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual qualification). There is no work component. UNSW is a public university with a strong reputation for research and teaching, located in the vibrant Sydney suburb of Kensington. This course provides a pathway for students to build confidence and meet the academic demands of Australian university education. All data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you receive reliable information for your study plans.
As a Non AQF Award in General Education Programmes, the Introductory Academic Program (IAP) covers foundational academic skills essential for success in Australian higher education. While the specific syllabus is set by UNSW, courses at this level typically include academic reading and writing, critical thinking, oral presentation skills, research techniques, and cross-cultural communication. Students learn to navigate the Australian education system, understand academic integrity, and develop independent learning strategies. This program is ideal for those who have not yet met the entry requirements for a diploma or degree, or who want to strengthen their English proficiency in an academic context. Graduates emerge better prepared for undergraduate or postgraduate study, with skills that are transferable across disciplines. The course is intensive, delivered over 5 weeks, with a focus on practical application and interaction.
The Introductory Academic Program (IAP) is a short, intensive course with a duration of 5 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is delivered as a single qualification (no dual award). Students attend classes at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney. While the CRICOS register does not specify full-time or part-time, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are typically required to study full-time. The program is designed to be completed within the 5-week period, with a combination of lectures, tutorials, and workshops. This compact format allows students to quickly gain the skills needed for further study without a long-term commitment. Contact UNSW for specific class schedules and term dates.
The indicative tuition fee for the Introductory Academic Program (IAP) at UNSW is A$2,500, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total cost to A$2,500. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by UNSW and may change – always confirm current fees on the UNSW website (www.unsw.edu.au). Additional costs not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge (Subclass 500). For a single student, OSHC costs approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year, while living costs in Sydney (rent, food, transport) are roughly A$25,000–A$30,000 annually. Budget carefully and factor in all expenses.
Entry requirements for the Introductory Academic Program (IAP) are set by UNSW, and the following is general guidance only. English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Non AQF Award, an IELTS score around 5.5–6.0 may be expected, but please check directly with UNSW. Prior academic qualifications: students should have completed secondary education in their home country equivalent to Australian Year 12. No foundation studies or dual qualification is applicable. UNSW may also consider your academic background and motivation. Since this is a preparatory program, it may serve as a pathway to other UNSW courses. For precise entry criteria, visit UNSW's website or contact their admissions office.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. 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 you to gain part-time work experience while studying. Always check your visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website.
The Introductory Academic Program (IAP) is delivered at The University of New South Wales – Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb of Sydney, approximately 5 kilometres south-east of the city centre. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. UNSW's Kensington campus is well-connected by public transport (buses, light rail) and offers modern facilities including libraries, computer labs, and student support services. Living costs in Sydney: indicative weekly rent A$250–$600, groceries A$70–$150, public transport A$30–$50. The campus is within walking distance of Randwick and Coogee beaches, and close to the bright lights of Sydney CBD. Studying at UNSW places you in a global hub of education and culture.
International students enrolling in the Introductory Academic Program (IAP) will need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW. The visa requires you to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, return airfares), and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Current student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Your visa also requires you to maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – for personalised advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your tuition fees and study rights.
Kensington, NSW, offers a dynamic study environment. Located in Sydney's eastern suburbs, it is close to the city but retains a village feel. UNSW's campus is a hub for international students from over 140 countries. The area provides easy access to libraries, cafes, parks, and transport. Consider your lifestyle preferences: if you enjoy urban life with beach proximity, Kensington is ideal. Living costs are above the national average, but part-time work opportunities in hospitality, retail, or tutoring exist. The number of CRICOS providers in Sydney exceeds 200, giving you options if you wish to compare programs. The IAP specifically helps you adjust to Australian academia, making it a smart choice if you need a supportive bridge to further studies. Weigh the short duration against your goals – this course is a stepping stone, not a degree.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by course level (Non AQF Award) and location (NSW). Compare providers like UNSW. Check CRICOS registration status on cricos.teqsa.gov.au. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UNSW's website (www.unsw.edu.au) to find application procedures for the Introductory Academic Program (IAP). You'll need to meet entry requirements, including English language test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL). Submit your application along with transcripts and other documents. Deadlines may vary – apply well in advance. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW accepts you, they issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. After visa grant, you can arrange travel and start your studies.
Find more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy and start your Australian study journey today.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Introductory Academic Program (IAP) 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.