Study Abroad Program (CRICOS course code 023235B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Federation University Australia over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is designed for international students who wish to experience studying in Australia without committing to a full degree. It falls under the broad field of Society and Culture, offering a flexible curriculum that can be tailored to your interests. With a duration of just two trimesters, you can immerse yourself in Australian academic life while exploring the vibrant city of Ballarat, Victoria. The indicative tuition fee is A$11,550, with additional non-tuition costs of A$885, making the total estimated cost A$12,435. All CRICOS-registered courses like this one are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. Federation University Australia, a government-owned institution, has been delivering high-quality education for over 150 years. Whether you aim to improve your English, gain cross-cultural skills, or simply take a gap year with purpose, this program provides a structured yet flexible pathway. Start planning your Australian study adventure with HeadStart Academy—your trusted resource for CRICOS data and student visa guidance.
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The Study Abroad Program (CRICOS course code 023235B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Federation University Australia over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is ideal for international students seeking a short-term study experience in Australia without pursuing a full qualification. It is registered under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' (broad field 0900, detailed field 090000), providing a general foundation in social and cultural studies. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students, ensuring you receive quality education and legal protections under the ESOS Act. Federation University Australia (CRICOS 00103D) is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation for student support and academic excellence. The program is delivered in English and does not include a mandatory work component, allowing you to focus fully on your studies and cultural immersion. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia is a top destination for international students. This course gives you a taste of that experience in a supportive, regional setting.
As a Non AQF Award in Society and Culture, the Study Abroad Program offers a broad introduction to social and cultural studies. Students typically engage with topics such as Australian society, intercultural communication, and contemporary social issues. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness—competencies valued in global careers. While the exact syllabus is set by Federation University Australia, graduates of this program often gain a deeper understanding of social structures, diversity, and the Australian way of life. This foundation can be applied to further study or work in fields like education, community services, or international relations. The program does not lead to a specific qualification but provides transferable credits that may be recognised by your home institution. For a detailed learning outline, always refer to the provider's official website.
The Study Abroad Program runs for 26 weeks (~6 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. This full-time program is delivered in English, with classes held at Federation University's Ballarat campus. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. The study load is typically 20-25 contact hours per week, plus self-directed study. This duration allows you to experience two academic trimesters in Australia, fitting neatly into a single semester break or gap year. The program's flexibility makes it popular among students from partner universities overseas. Remember, student visa conditions require you to maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress.
The indicative tuition fee for the Study Abroad Program is A$11,550, with additional non-tuition fees of A$885, giving an estimated total of A$12,435. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Non-tuition fees may cover services such as student amenities, orientation, and learning resources. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (including accommodation, groceries, and transport), and the visa application charge are not included. For current and precise fee information, always check Federation University Australia's official website. As a government-owned provider, they offer transparent pricing and payment plans. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees as a guide only—confirm with the institution before applying.
English language requirements for the Study Abroad Program vary by provider but typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level and your home institution's agreements. For this Non AQF Award, a minimum of IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent) is common, but Federation University Australia may set higher standards for academic readiness. You should have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. Foundation or pathway options are available for students who need additional academic or English preparation—check with the provider. As entry requirements can change, always verify the latest criteria on the provider's website. Remember, meeting the entry requirements does not guarantee a visa—you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and hold valid OSHC.
The Study Abroad Program does not include a mandatory work component. This means you are not required to undertake any work placements or internships as part of the course. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs and gain Australian work experience. Always check your visa conditions and ensure work does not interfere with your study commitments.
This course is delivered at the Federation University Ballarat campus in BALLARAT, VIC. Ballarat is a historic regional city with a population of over 100,000, located about 90 minutes west of Melbourne. It offers a lower cost of living compared to major cities—indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$150–A$250, groceries A$60–A$80, and public transport A$30–A$40. The campus is well-served by local buses and taxis, with free city shuttle buses. Ballarat has a strong student community, with several registered providers and a supportive environment. For more details on studying in Victoria, see our state guide. The campus provides modern facilities, libraries, and student support services.
To study the Study Abroad Program as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (26 weeks) plus additional time for travel. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting health and character requirements. With a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. After your program ends, you may be eligible to apply for a further visa or return home. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Ballarat offers a unique study abroad experience away from the hustle of big cities. With a moderate cost of living, friendly community, and rich gold rush history, it's ideal for students seeking a quieter lifestyle. The city has several CRICOS-registered providers and a growing international student population. Public transport connects you to Melbourne easily for weekend trips. However, if you prefer a bustling urban environment, consider Melbourne or Sydney. Ballarat experiences cool winters and warm summers, so pack accordingly. This study abroad program is perfect for those who want to immerse in Australian culture while keeping costs manageable. Use our state guide to compare living costs across Australia.
Applying for the Study Abroad Program at Federation University Australia is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure your chosen course and provider are CRICOS-registered for visa eligibility. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Federation University Australia's website, review entry requirements (including English language tests), submit your application with transcripts and personal statement, and meet application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university issues a CoE. Then, lodge your visa application online, attach required documents (including OSHC evidence), and await approval. For detailed visa help, see our student visa guide.
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Study Abroad Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.