Medical Elective (CRICOS course code 038258E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 12 weeks. This short program offers international students an opportunity to gain exposure to the Australian healthcare system within a leading research-intensive university. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider CRICOS 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas student enrolment. Whether you are a current medical student seeking clinical experience or a recent graduate exploring global health, this elective allows you to observe and learn from UNSW's clinical educators. Note that this is not a degree or diploma; it is a non-award program designed for professional enrichment. All international students must hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500) and meet English language and academic prerequisites. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Always confirm details with UNSW before applying.
Medical Elective (CRICOS course code 038258E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 12 weeks. It falls under the field of General Medicine (060101) within the broader Medical Studies discipline (0601). As a non-award course, it does not lead to a formal qualification but provides valuable clinical observation and learning in a hospital or community healthcare setting. UNSW is a Group of Eight university with a strong reputation in health and medicine. The course is designed primarily for international medical students or graduates who wish to supplement their training with an overseas elective. All international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. UNSW is one of 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering over 26,400 courses to international students.
While specifics vary by placement, the Medical Elective typically provides observational and supervised learning experiences in clinical settings aligned with General Medicine. Participants may observe patient consultations, participate in case discussions, and attend lectures or tutorials arranged by UNSW's clinical schools. The field of General Medicine covers the prevention, diagnosis, and non-surgical treatment of diseases in adult patients. Graduates at this level gain an understanding of Australia's healthcare system, clinical protocols, and patient communication. Note that this elective does not involve direct patient responsibility; it is primarily observational. For a detailed syllabus, contact UNSW directly.
The course runs for 12 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register (12 weeks). It is delivered in English, the primary language of instruction. This is a single qualification course with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. There is no VET national code as it is not a vocational education and training course. The study mode is full-time attendance at clinical placement sites, supplemented by on-campus activities at UNSW's Kensington campus. The exact schedule varies by placement and preceptor availability.
The CRICOS register indicates an estimated total cost of A$6,000 for this Medical Elective. However, tuition and non-tuition fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Always verify current fees on UNSW's official website (www.unsw.edu.au). The indicative total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). International students should budget for OSHC (single cover approx. A$500–$700 per year), weekly living expenses (approx. A$500–$700 in Sydney), and travel costs. The indicative total is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is not a fee agent; always confirm with UNSW.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Non AQF Award, UNSW may expect a higher proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent) as the elective involves clinical communication. Prior qualifications expected: applicants must be currently enrolled in a medical degree or hold a medical degree from a recognised institution. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable; this is a standalone elective. Refer to UNSW's website for specific academic and English prerequisites. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a clinical elective focused on observation and learning, not employment.
The Medical Elective is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 6 km from the city centre. Sydney is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a major education hub. The campus is accessible via public transport (light rail and buses) from Central Station. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; indicative weekly rent for a single room is A$350–$550, groceries about A$80–$120, and transport A$30–$50. International students enjoy a vibrant multicultural environment with many student services.
Australia offers a world-class healthcare system and diverse clinical experiences. Before committing, consider your own learning goals — whether you seek exposure to public vs. private systems, sub-specialties, or indigenous health. Sydney, home to UNSW, has numerous major hospitals including Prince of Wales, St Vincent's, and Royal Prince Alfred. The city's multicultural population provides a unique patient demographic. Also factor in the Australian climate, time zone differences, and visa conditions. Remember that the elective does not count towards your home degree unless your university grants credit. Discuss with your home institution first. HeadStart Academy recommends researching UNSW's electives team for placement availability.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa permits study at a registered institution and allows work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). To obtain the visa, applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections safeguard international students' rights, including tuition refund policies and access to support services.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Medical Elective at The University of New South Wales (UNSW): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Medical Elective (038258E) is still offered by UNSW. Check entry requirements and application deadlines on the UNSW website. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and a letter from your home medical school supporting your elective. Submit through UNSW's online portals for visiting students. Deadlines vary by semester; apply well in advance. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, UNSW will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Subclass 500 visa application online via ImmiAccount. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and genuine temporary entrant statement. Visa processing times vary.
Begin your Medical Elective journey — visit UNSW's website to check entry requirements and apply today.
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Medical Elective is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.