Visiting Research Student Program (52 Weeks) (CRICOS course code 029052E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 1 year. This program falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (12 - Mixed Field Programmes, specifically 1299 - Other Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.), designed for international students who wish to engage in research activities at a leading Australian university without pursuing a formal qualification. The course is CRICOS-registered (00102E), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. University of Wollongong is a public university located in Wollongong, NSW, known for its strong research output and vibrant campus community. As a CRICOS-registered provider, UoW is authorized to enrol international students under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, providing legal protections to students. This page provides an overview of the course structure, indicative fees, entry requirements, and student visa information to help you plan your study in Australia. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
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Visiting Research Student Program (52 Weeks) (CRICOS course code 029052E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 1 year. This program is designed for international students who want to participate in a structured research experience under the supervision of UoW academics. It is not a formal degree but offers valuable exposure to research methodologies and academic environments. The field of education is Mixed Field Programmes, specifically 1299 - Other Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c., which covers interdisciplinary and customized study programs. Graduates of this program develop skills in research design, data analysis, academic writing, and critical thinking, which are transferable to further studies or professional roles. University of Wollongong (CRICOS 00102E) is a government-recognized institution with a strong reputation in research and teaching. The program is delivered face-to-face at UOW Wollongong campus, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant international student community. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this program is one of the unique options available through a trusted provider.
As a Non AQF Award, the Visiting Research Student Program does not lead to a formal qualification but instead focuses on practical research experience. The course content is tailored to the student's proposed research topic, under supervision from UoW faculty. Typical learning outcomes include understanding research ethics, developing a research proposal, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings. The field of Mixed Field Programmes allows for customization across multiple disciplines, so students from various academic backgrounds can benefit. At this level, students are expected to have prior knowledge in their chosen research area. The program is ideal for those considering future postgraduate research degrees (e.g., PhD) or seeking international research experience. University of Wollongong's research strengths include engineering, science, health, and social sciences. For specific syllabus details, prospective students should contact the provider directly.
The Visiting Research Student Program has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and is not classified as foundation studies. The program is delivered in full-time mode, typically requiring on-campus attendance at UOW Wollongong. There is no mandatory work component. The course structure is designed to accommodate research activities over the academic year, with flexibility for individual research timelines. Students should expect to dedicate significant time to independent research under supervision. The program is not a VET course, so no VET national code applies.
Indicative fees for the Visiting Research Student Program are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition fees are A$7,440 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (e.g., administrative charges) are A$183, bringing the estimated total to A$7,623. These fees are set by the provider and subject to change. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover; living expenses (estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student); and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Student visa Subclass 500). We strongly recommend confirming current fees directly with University of Wollongong at www.uow.edu.au before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Non AQF Award, University of Wollongong may require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent. Prior qualifications: applicants should hold a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field, as the program involves research-level work. The provider may also consider relevant professional experience. There are no formal pathway options specific to this course, but students with lower English scores may consider a packaged English language course offered by UoW College. Always check the provider's website for the most current entry requirements.
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. Work is optional and not part of the course.
The program is delivered at UOW Wollongong campus, located in WOLLONGONG, NSW. Wollongong is a coastal city about 80 km south of Sydney, with a population of around 300,000. The city has a strong international student community, with several CRICOS-registered providers. Public transport includes trains and buses connecting to Sydney and other regions. Typical weekly living costs in Wollongong: rent (shared A$200–300), groceries A$80–120, transport A$30–50. The university campus is well-equipped with libraries, laboratories, and student support services.
International students enrolled in this program require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa conditions: maintain OSHC for the duration of stay; meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement; demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents; attend full-time study; and notify the provider of changes in address or circumstances. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks. For detailed advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Visiting Research Student Program at University of Wollongong: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm the CRICOS code 029052E is active and matches the provider. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UOW's website (www.uow.edu.au), review entry requirements and English language proficiency, prepare your research proposal, and submit an application via the online portal. Deadlines vary; apply well in advance. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UOW will issue a CoE. Use it to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Start your research on HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses and providers.
Visiting Research Student Program (52 Weeks) 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.