Exchange Program (CRICOS course code 039979G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This short-term program is designed for international students seeking an academic exchange experience in Australia. The University of Newcastle (CRICOS 00109J) is a government university located in New South Wales. As a CRICOS-registered provider, UoN meets Australian Government standards for delivering courses to overseas students. The Exchange Program falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (129999), offering interdisciplinary learning across various subject areas. With 26,433 courses available across Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers, this program provides a unique opportunity to study in a vibrant academic environment while experiencing Australian culture. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you compare CRICOS courses and providers. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Exchange Program (CRICOS course code 039979G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is not a degree but rather a structured exchange program for students enrolled at partner institutions abroad. It allows international students to study at The University of Newcastle for one semester, gaining academic credit that can be transferred back to their home institution. The course is classified under Mixed Field Programmes (129999), which means it combines elements from different academic disciplines to provide a broad learning experience. The University of Newcastle is a leading Australian university with a strong research focus and a diverse student population. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00109J), UoN is authorised to enrol international students and must comply with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and legal protections. This program is ideal for students who want to experience Australian university life without committing to a full degree.
The Exchange Program at The University of Newcastle falls under the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes, specifically code 129999 (Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.). At the Non AQF Award level, students typically engage in interdisciplinary coursework that does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but provides valuable academic enrichment. While the exact curriculum is determined by the University, exchange students generally select units from various faculties such as Arts, Business, Engineering, Science, or Health, depending on their home institution's requirements. This programme offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and academic goals. Graduates of exchange programs often gain cross-cultural skills, global perspectives, and enhanced employability. The University of Newcastle's academic staff are experts in their fields, providing high-quality instruction and support. The program is taught entirely in English, so proficiency in English is essential for success.
The Exchange Program is delivered over 26 weeks (approximately 6 months) on a full-time basis. The CRICOS register also shows 26 weeks as the official duration. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification — it does not lead to a dual award. There is no foundation studies component, and it is not a VET course (no VET national code). Students are expected to attend classes regularly and complete assessments as required. The full-time nature of the course means international students must maintain a full study load to comply with their visa conditions. The University of Newcastle typically offers two semesters per year, so the exchange program aligns with the academic calendar. Students should check the University's website for exact start dates and orientation information.
Tuition fees for Exchange Program are set by The University of Newcastle and are listed as 'see provider' on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees are also indicated as 'see provider', and the estimated total cost is A$0 (indicative). Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in the estimated total include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. International students should budget for these separately. For the most accurate and up-to-date fee information, always visit the University of Newcastle's official website (www.newcastle.edu.au). HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge any referral fees. As an exchange student, you may also need to pay tuition to your home institution; check with your home university's study abroad office.
English language requirements for Exchange Program vary by provider but typically require an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 7.0, depending on the course level and chosen subjects. Prior qualifications expected for this level generally include current enrolment in a degree program at a recognised overseas institution. You may need to have completed at least one year of tertiary study and maintain a minimum GPA. Some institutions may also require a letter of nomination from your home university. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this Non AQF Award, but students should refer to The University of Newcastle for specific requirements. It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places may be limited. Always consult the provider for the most accurate and current entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The CRICOS register indicates 'No work component'. Therefore, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are not required to undertake any work as part of the course. However, students may voluntarily seek part-time employment, subject to visa work conditions. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. You must not commence work until your course has started and you have your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current work rights conditions.
The Exchange Program is delivered at The University of Newcastle's Callaghan campus in CALLAGHAN, New South Wales (postcode 2308). Callaghan is a suburb of Newcastle, approximately 12 km from the city centre. Newcastle is Australia's second-largest city in New South Wales, with a population of around 500,000. It is known for its beautiful beaches, affordable cost of living, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to several CRICOS-registered providers, with over 20 institutions offering courses to international students. The Callaghan campus is a modern, purpose-built university campus with excellent facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and student support services. Public transport options include buses from Newcastle city centre and nearby suburbs. The campus is also accessible by train via Warabrook station. Living costs in Newcastle are generally lower than in Sydney, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$250–350, groceries A$100–150, and a weekly transport pass A$30–50. These are indicative estimates only.
To study this Exchange Program in Australia, international students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus a period after completion. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, and holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled holiday periods. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied, demonstrating that your intention is to stay temporarily for study purposes. You will also need to show financial capacity to cover tuition fees, OSHC, and living costs (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student as of 2026). HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for individual visa advice. Do not rely solely on this guide for your visa application.
Applying for the Exchange Program at The University of Newcastle involves three key steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to find CRICOS courses that match your study level, field, and location preferences. For this Exchange Program, filter by Non AQF Award and The University of Newcastle.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit The University of Newcastle's website (www.newcastle.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English language proficiency standards, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with supporting documents such as academic transcripts, letter of nomination from your home university, and proof of English proficiency.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: If accepted, the University will issue a CoE. Then, apply for a Student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and genuine temporary entrant status. Plan ahead as visa processing can take several weeks.
Remember, all providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you are enrolling in a legitimate course. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Ready to start your exchange journey? Explore all CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy and find the perfect program for you.
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.