Study Abroad (CRICOS course code 026639B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is designed for international students seeking a short-term academic and cultural experience in Australia. Hosted by a government-owned university with multiple campuses in Queensland, the course allows you to immerse yourself in Australian education while exploring the Sunshine Coast region. With no mandatory work component and English as the language of instruction, it’s a flexible option for those looking to broaden their horizons. University of the Sunshine Coast is CRICOS-registered (01595D) and offers this program at three locations: UniSC Fraser Coast in Hervey Bay, UniSC Moreton Bay in Petrie, and UniSC Sunshine Coast in Sippy Downs. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring ESOS Act protections apply. Whether you’re aiming to improve your English, experience a new culture, or simply take a study break, this course provides a structured yet adaptable pathway. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
This course falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. (Detailed field code 129999), which encompasses interdisciplinary and non-specific programs. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but focuses on providing a broad educational experience. Students can expect to engage in general studies that may include language skills, cultural awareness, and introductory academic subjects. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing you to tailor your learning to your interests. While specific subjects are not predetermined, typical outcomes include improved English proficiency, cross-cultural communication skills, and a foundational understanding of Australian society and educational practices. This program is ideal for those who want to test the waters of studying abroad without committing to a full degree. University of the Sunshine Coast ensures that the learning environment is supportive and interactive, leveraging its campus facilities and student services.
The course duration is 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The study mode is typically full-time, with classes scheduled across weekdays. Each campus offers modern classrooms, libraries, and access to online resources. The 26-week timeframe provides a substantial period for cultural immersion and academic engagement. Students should plan their accommodation and travel accordingly. As this is a Non AQF Award, there is no VET national code. The course is designed to be completed within the specified duration, with no extension options implied. University of the Sunshine Coast may offer intakes at various points throughout the year; check the provider’s website for exact start dates.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$12,075, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$12,075. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. Living costs in Queensland vary by city; for context, weekly rent for a shared apartment in the Sunshine Coast region typically ranges from A$150 to A$300, groceries around A$80–120, and public transport up to A$50. You should budget accordingly and confirm all fees directly with University of the Sunshine Coast before applying. Always refer to the provider’s website for the most up-to-date information.
English language requirements vary by provider and course level — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall for Non AQF Awards, or equivalent. University of the Sunshine Coast will specify its own requirements; generally, completion of secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12 is expected. As this is a short-term program, prior academic background may be less stringent than for degree courses. No foundation studies or pathway options are listed for this specific program, but the provider may offer preparatory courses. Always check the official entry criteria on the University of the Sunshine Coast website. For English proficiency, alternatives to IELTS such as TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. Contact the provider’s admissions team for detailed guidance.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake any formal work placement or internship as part of the curriculum. However, as a student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain casual employment if desired. The absence of a work component means the course focuses entirely on study and cultural experience.
This course is delivered at three campuses of University of the Sunshine Coast, all in Queensland: UniSC Fraser Coast in Hervey Bay, UniSC Moreton Bay in Petrie, and UniSC Sunshine Coast in Sippy Downs. Hervey Bay is a coastal city known for its whale watching and relaxed lifestyle, with a small student population. Petrie is part of the Moreton Bay region near Brisbane, offering proximity to the capital’s amenities. Sippy Downs is the main campus, located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, a rapidly growing area with a vibrant student community. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Hervey Bay has limited public transport options; Petrie is near a train station; Sippy Downs is serviced by buses. Each campus provides student support services, libraries, and recreational facilities. When choosing a location, consider your lifestyle preferences and commuting needs.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this CRICOS-registered course. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, travel). The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring your rights as an international student are safeguarded.
Follow this 3-step process for Study Abroad at University of the Sunshine Coast: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and location (QLD) to find suitable options. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the University of the Sunshine Coast website (www.usc.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a personal statement if required. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the University will issue a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Submit your visa application via the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC evidence and financial documents.
Study Abroad is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of the Sunshine Coast. 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.