Exchange Program (CRICOS course code 039294D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 1 year (52 weeks). This course is designed for international students coming to Australia as part of a student exchange agreement between UoN and their home institution. It falls under the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes (129999), providing a flexible study experience that allows students to select subjects from various disciplines. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00109J), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Located at the Callaghan campus in Newcastle, NSW, this program offers students a chance to immerse in Australian academic culture while earning credit towards their home degree. The University of Newcastle is a public institution with a strong research focus and a vibrant international community. This page provides key information on duration, delivery location, entry requirements, and student visa obligations. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Remember, HeadStart Academy is a free resource — we do not charge fees or receive commissions. Always verify details with the provider.
Exchange Program (CRICOS course code 039294D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 1 year (52 weeks). This course is classified under Field of Education 129999 - Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c., which means it does not belong to a single discipline but allows students to combine subjects from multiple fields. As a non-AQF award, it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification but is typically used for study abroad or exchange students who want to experience studying in Australia while gaining credit towards their home degree. The course is taught entirely in English and is offered as a single qualification — no dual awards or foundation studies. There is no mandatory work component. The indicative tuition fee is set by the provider — please refer to the University's website for current charges. Non-tuition fees (e.g., enrolment, facilities) are also determined by the institution. The estimated total cost is listed as A$0 on CRICOS because fees vary; you must contact UoN for exact amounts. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges are not included. All international students in Australia are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
As a course in Mixed Field Programmes (129999), the Exchange Program allows you to tailor your study plan by selecting subjects from different disciplines offered at The University of Newcastle. Typical subject areas might include arts, business, engineering, health sciences, or law, depending on what is available under exchange agreements. This flexible structure helps you develop a broad set of skills including critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and adaptability. You will study alongside both domestic and international students, experiencing Australian teaching methods such as tutorials, workshops, and group projects. While specific syllabi vary each semester, the goal is to provide a holistic educational experience that enriches your academic and personal growth. The University of Newcastle also offers support services for international students including orientation, academic skills workshops, and counselling.
The Exchange Program is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register (April 2026). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — not a dual award, foundation program, or VET course. There is no work component included. Students typically study full-time on campus at the Callaghan location. The University of Newcastle may offer flexible delivery modes, but for CRICOS purposes, this course is classroom-based. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions (Subclass 500). The academic year at UoN is divided into semesters, and exchange students usually start in either Semester 1 (February) or Semester 2 (July). Always check with the provider for exact study pattern and orientation dates.
Tuition fees for the Exchange Program are set by The University of Newcastle and are not included in the CRICOS register as a fixed amount — the register shows 'see provider' for tuition and non-tuition fees, with an estimated total of A$0. This means you must contact UoN directly or visit their website at www.newcastle.edu.au for current fee schedules. Note that exchange students may have fee arrangements through their home institution, which could affect payable amounts. Non-tuition fees may include student services and amenities fees (SSAF), materials, or lab charges. Other costs you need to budget for include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover). Living costs in Newcastle: weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$200–A$300, groceries A$80–A$150, public transport A$30–A$50 (with student concession). The visa application charge for Subclass 500 is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always verify all costs directly with the provider and the Department of Home Affairs.
Entry requirements for the Exchange Program are determined by The University of Newcastle in partnership with your home institution. Generally, you must be enrolled in a degree program at a recognised university and be nominated by your home institution for exchange. English language proficiency is required — typical IELTS scores for this level range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the subjects you choose. The University may also accept TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English tests. Academic prerequisites vary; you may need to have completed a certain number of credit points in your home degree. There are no foundation or pathway options specifically for this course. Always check the provider's website for specific entry requirements. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, UoN must ensure you meet genuine student requirements under the GTE criterion. Consult a registered education agent or MARA agent if unsure.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work must not interfere with your study commitment. The work rights are subject to visa conditions, and you must not work before your course commences. For more details, refer to the Department of Home Affairs. Remember that earning income from work may affect your financial capacity for visa purposes.
The Exchange Program is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) — CALLAGHAN, NSW. Callaghan is the main campus of UoN, located approximately 12 kilometres west of Newcastle's city centre. Newcastle is a coastal city in New South Wales with a population of about 500,000. It offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney — rent is roughly 30-40% cheaper. The campus is accessible by bus from the city and suburbs. Newcastle has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering various courses. The student population at UoN is around 37,000, including over 8,000 international students from more than 100 countries. Nearby amenities include shops, cafes, and sporting facilities. The city has a vibrant music and arts scene, beautiful beaches, and a strong student community. For more details on studying in NSW, see our NSW state guide.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this CRICOS-registered course, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition fees + living costs + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the proposed stay. The current visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). Working rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependents may accompany you but may have limited work rights. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and achieve satisfactory course progress. For detailed information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Exchange Program at The University of Newcastle: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Start by exploring courses and providers on HeadStart Academy. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award) and location (NSW) to find suitable options. Ensure your home institution has an exchange agreement with UoN. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact your home university’s study abroad office first, as they will nominate you. Then apply to The University of Newcastle through their exchange application portal. You will need to provide academic transcripts, English proficiency evidence, a study plan, and possibly a personal statement. Deadlines are typically several months before semester start. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UoN accepts you, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, GTE statement, and biometrics. Visa processing times vary — apply early. After visa grant, arrange travel and accommodation.
Newcastle offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a strong student community, with many cafes, pubs, and cultural events. Public transport includes buses and a light rail. Living costs for international students are estimated at A$25,000–A$30,000 per year including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. The University of Newcastle is highly ranked in research and teaching, particularly in engineering, medicine, and business. However, exchange students can choose subjects across many fields. Consider your preferences: if you enjoy beaches, outdoor activities, and a smaller city vibe, Newcastle is ideal. For those wanting a huge metropolis with more job opportunities, Sydney may be better. Always weigh academic fit, budget, and lifestyle before deciding. Remember, the ESOS Act protects your rights as a consumer of education services.
Exchange programs are not degree courses — they are designed for credit transfer to your home degree. Ensure your home institution recognizes the credits. Since it is a Non AQF Award, it won’t lead to an Australian qualification. However, it provides valuable experience in English-speaking academic environment and cultural immersion. Check the subjects available — some may have prerequisites or limited places. Also consider accommodation options: on-campus or off-campus. The University of Newcastle offers housing services. Health cover is mandatory. Finally, verify visa conditions: you must not undertake any work that compromises your studies. Weigh the benefits: personal growth, international perspective, and language improvement against costs. HeadStart Academy is here to help you research all CRICOS-registered courses.
Ready to start your exchange journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy and contact The University of Newcastle for application details.
Exchange Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.