Foundation Studies - Extended (CRICOS course code 023266F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 1 year. This program is designed for international students who need additional academic and English language preparation before entering undergraduate studies at UoW or other Australian universities. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00102E), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment, ensuring you receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, to help you make an informed decision about your study pathway in Australia.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Foundation Studies - Extended (CRICOS course code 023266F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 1 year. This course falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (12), specifically General Education Programmes (1201), and is designed to bridge the gap between secondary education and university-level study. It provides foundational knowledge in key academic areas, study skills, and English language proficiency, preparing students for a wide range of undergraduate degrees. As a foundation program, it does not lead to a standalone qualification but serves as a pathway to further study.
The Foundation Studies - Extended program is part of the General Education Programmes field (n.e.c.), which focuses on building broad academic competencies rather than specialised skills. Students typically engage with subjects that develop critical thinking, academic writing, research methods, and discipline-specific introductory content. The curriculum is structured to meet the entry requirements of undergraduate courses at UoW, with a strong emphasis on English language development and Australian academic conventions. While the exact syllabus varies by intake, the goal is to equip students with the confidence and skills needed to succeed in tertiary education.
According to the CRICOS register, Foundation Studies - Extended has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and it is offered as a single qualification (no dual award). Students study full-time on campus, with no online or part-time option specified. The extended format provides additional weeks compared to standard foundation programs, allowing for more intensive language and academic support.
The indicative tuition fee for Foundation Studies - Extended is A$24,984 per year, with non-tuition fees of A$548, bringing the estimated total to A$25,532. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note that fees are set by University of Wollongong (UoW) and subject to change. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are not included. For current fee information, always check the provider's official website: www.uow.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For Foundation Studies - Extended at UoW, international students generally need to have completed secondary education equivalent to Year 11 in Australia, with satisfactory grades. A minimum IELTS score of 5.5 (with no band below 5.0) or equivalent is commonly required. Some students may also need to meet specific subject prerequisites for their intended undergraduate course. Since entry requirements can change, we recommend confirming directly with University of Wollongong. This course is classified as a foundation program, meaning it serves as a pathway for students who do not yet meet direct entry to undergraduate study.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Foundation Studies - Extended is delivered at UOW Wollongong, located in the city of Wollongong, New South Wales. Wollongong is a coastal city south of Sydney with a population of around 300,000, including a large student population. The campus is well-connected by public transport, and the city offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney. Indicative weekly costs for a single student in Wollongong are approximately A$150–A$250 for rent (shared accommodation), A$60–A$100 for groceries, and A$30–A$50 for public transport. There are over 30 CRICOS-registered providers in the Wollongong region, offering diverse study options.
To study Foundation Studies - Extended in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meet health requirements. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course is required to apply. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. All international students must maintain valid OSHC for the duration of their stay. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered providers, safeguarding your tuition fees and ensuring quality education. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Wollongong offers a balanced lifestyle with beaches, parks, and a smaller city feel compared to Sydney. It has a strong multicultural community and a growing student population. The University of Wollongong is a major public university with a high international student satisfaction rate. Public transport includes trains to Sydney (approx. 1.5 hours) and local buses. Living costs are moderate: A$20,000–A$25,000 per year for a single student (excluding tuition). If you prefer a quieter study environment with access to nature and lower rent, Wollongong is an excellent choice. However, if you want a big-city experience with more nightlife and cultural options, Sydney or Melbourne might suit you better.
Follow this simple 3-step process to apply for Foundation Studies - Extended at University of Wollongong (UoW):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to search for Foundation Studies courses. Filter by course level, field, and city to find the right program. All institutions listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian standards.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the UoW website to check specific entry requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS), and application deadlines. Submit your application online or through an authorised education agent.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, UoW will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. You'll need to show financial capacity, OSHC, and meet the GTE requirement.
Ready to start your Australian study journey? Explore Foundation Studies - Extended at University of Wollongong and apply today. Visit www.uow.edu.au for details or use HeadStart Academy to compare other CRICOS courses.
Foundation Studies - Extended is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Wollongong (UoW). 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.