University of Sydney Foundation Program - Standard Intensive (CRICOS course code 036126M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Sydney over 40 weeks (~9 months). This course is designed for international students who have completed secondary education and seek a pathway to undergraduate studies at the University of Sydney. The program provides foundational knowledge in academic skills, English language, and subject-specific areas to prepare students for their chosen degree. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00026A), it guarantees ESOS Act protections, ensuring your rights as an international student are safeguarded. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. The University of Sydney is a prestigious Group of Eight university, making this foundation program a popular choice for students aiming for a top-tier Australian education. The course is delivered at Taylors College (Waterloo) campus, located in the vibrant inner-city suburb of Waterloo, just a short distance from the University's main Camperdown campus. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you find the right course for your goals.
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The University of Sydney Foundation Program - Standard Intensive (CRICOS code 036126M) is a Non AQF Award that serves as a foundation studies program. It is designed for international students who need to meet entry requirements for undergraduate degrees at the University of Sydney. The course covers a range of subjects including English, mathematics, and critical thinking, tailored to your intended field of study. Successful completion guarantees progression to selected University of Sydney degrees subject to meeting grade requirements. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, confirming its quality and compliance with Australian education standards. This program is ideal for students who have completed secondary education but require additional academic preparation to succeed in an Australian university environment.
The field of education is Mixed Field Programmes (12) with a focus on General Education Programmes (1201). Specifically, this course falls under General Education Programmes, n.e.c. (120199). Students can expect to develop foundational academic skills, improve English language proficiency, and gain subject-specific knowledge in areas such as humanities, sciences, or commerce, depending on their intended undergraduate pathway. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between secondary education and university-level study, ensuring students are well-prepared for the rigours of a bachelor's degree. Graduates of this program typically demonstrate enhanced critical thinking, research, and communication skills, along with a solid understanding of the Australian academic environment. The program also includes orientation to university life and study strategies, helping students transition smoothly into higher education.
The course duration is 40 weeks (~9 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the program is a single qualification (no dual qualifications). Students attend full-time classes at the Taylors College (Waterloo) campus. The intensive nature means a faster pathway to university compared to the standard program. All teaching materials, assessments, and lectures are in English, so students should have a strong command of English. The University of Sydney's Foundation Program is known for its rigorous academic standards, ensuring that students are fully prepared for undergraduate study.
The indicative fees for this course are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Tuition fees are A$46,300, non-tuition fees are A$570, totaling an estimated A$46,870. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Students should budget for additional expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and personal costs. Always check The University of Sydney's official website for the most current fee information. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a guide only.
Entry requirements for this foundation program vary. Generally, students need to have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12. English language requirements typically require an IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the intended undergraduate program. Some students may also need to meet specific subject prerequisites. Since this is a foundation studies course, it is specifically designed for students who do not yet meet direct entry requirements for undergraduate degrees. Always check with The University of Sydney for the most current requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends verifying all entry conditions with the provider before applying.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake work placements or internships as part of the program. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at Taylors College (Waterloo) in Waterloo, NSW. Waterloo is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Sydney, approximately 3 km from the CBD. It is well-served by public transport, including buses and trains, providing easy access to the University of Sydney's main campus and other amenities. Sydney is home to over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, offering thousands of courses to the city's large international student population. The cost of living in Sydney is higher than other Australian cities, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around $300-$500, groceries $80-$150, and transport $40-$60 (estimates only, subject to change).
International students studying this course on campus will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the course, and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current conditions. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the University of Sydney Foundation Program - Standard Intensive:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered (The University of Sydney is CRICOS 00026A).
2. **Apply directly to The University of Sydney**: Submit your application through the University's admissions portal. You will need to provide academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and entry requirements on the University website.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: If accepted, The University of Sydney will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet all visa conditions including OSHC and financial capacity.
Sydney is Australia's largest city, offering a dynamic multicultural environment and world-class education. With over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, students have a wide choice of institutions and courses. The city is known for its beautiful harbour, diverse food scene, and strong job market. However, the cost of living is relatively high. Students should budget for accommodation, transport, and daily expenses. HeadStart Academy provides detailed guides on studying in New South Wales, including living costs and student life. Consider your personal budget and lifestyle preferences when choosing to study in Sydney.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more foundation programs on HeadStart Academy and find the perfect pathway to your dream university.
University of Sydney Foundation Program - Standard Intensive is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. 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.