Not For Degree (Study Abroad) (CRICOS course code 040784J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is designed for international students who wish to study abroad in Australia without committing to a full degree. It offers flexibility to take courses from various disciplines at one of Australia's leading universities, located in the vibrant city of Perth. Whether you want to experience Australian university life, improve your English, or gain credits transferable to your home institution, this course provides a structured yet customizable pathway. The University of Western Australia is a CRICOS-registered provider (00126G) and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight (Go8) universities. All courses on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you access accurate and up-to-date information for your study abroad planning.
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Not For Degree (Study Abroad) (CRICOS course code 040784J) is a Non AQF Award at the Non AQF Award level. It falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (Broad Field 12), specifically Other Mixed Field Programmes (1299) and Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. (129999). This classification means the course combines elements from multiple disciplines, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and academic background. The program is ideal for students who want to experience Australian education without pursuing a formal qualification. UWA, located in Crawley, Western Australia, has been delivering this course since its CRICOS registration, providing a supportive environment with access to world-class facilities. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification but may grant academic credit that can be transferred to degree programs at UWA or other institutions. This course is part of a broader ecosystem of over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses available to international students in Australia.
As a Mixed Field Programme, the Not For Degree (Study Abroad) course allows students to select units from various faculties, such as arts, business, science, or engineering, depending on prerequisites and availability. Typically, students choose up to 4 units per semester, totaling a full-time load of around 24 contact hours per week. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and independent research skills. While the specific units vary each semester, students can expect to engage in lectures, tutorials, and practical workshops. This flexibility is a key feature of study abroad programs in Australia, enabling you to explore new academic fields while gaining international experience. The course does not have a set syllabus; instead, you work with an academic advisor to select units that match your goals. Assessments include essays, exams, presentations, and group projects, mirroring the university's standard undergraduate assessment methods.
The course duration is 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register (1 April 2026). It is offered full-time, with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. The standard study load is 4 units per semester, though some students may opt for a lighter load with approval. UWA operates on a semester system with two main intakes: Semester 1 (February) and Semester 2 (July). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The intensive nature of the program requires significant commitment, but it also allows you to complete the course within a single semester, ideal for a short study abroad experience.
Indicative tuition fees for this course are A$14,450 per total duration, with non-tuition fees of A$187, giving an estimated total of A$14,637. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. UWA sets fees annually — always check the provider's website for current costs. Note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) and costs roughly A$500–A$700 per year depending on cover level. Living costs in Perth, Western Australia (WA), are estimated at around A$25,000 per year for a single student, covering rent (A$200–A$350 per week for shared accommodation), groceries (A$80–A$120 per week), and public transport (A$40 per week with a SmartRider concession). For the latest fee information, visit UWA's official fees page. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting an additional A$2,000–A$3,000 for textbooks, health cover, and incidental costs.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Non AQF Award, UWA generally expects IELTS 6.5 overall (with no band less than 6.0) or equivalent in TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Academic requirements include completion of secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12, with competitive grades. UWA may also consider previous tertiary study or professional experience. Foundation/pathway options: Students who do not meet direct entry can consider UWA College's Foundation or Diploma programs. As this is a study abroad program, home institution approval may be required if you intend to transfer credits. Always verify specific requirements with UWA's admissions team. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — for visa English requirements, consult the Department of Home Affairs.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component or internship as part of the curriculum. However, student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (e.g., semester holidays). Students should not rely on work to cover tuition or living costs; work rights are supplementary. UWA's Career Centre offers part-time job listings and workshops to help students gain local work experience.
The course is delivered at The University of Western Australia, located in CRAWLEY, WA (postcode 6009). Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is home to over 1.6 million people and hosts dozens of CRICOS-registered providers including UWA, Curtin University, and Murdoch University. The campus is a 10-minute drive from Perth CBD and accessible by public bus (routes 950, 102, 107) and the University of Western Australia railway station (scheduled to open 2025). Living costs in Perth are moderate: indicative weekly rent A$250–A$400 for a room, groceries A$80–A$120, and a SmartRider bus pass A$40–A$60. Perth has a Mediterranean climate, with sunny most of the year, and offers a diverse student community. UWA's location provides easy access to the Swan River, Elizabeth Quay, and Kings Park.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and OSHC coverage. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement asks you to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity must be shown: tuition plus living costs (A$21,041 per year from 1 July 2024) plus OSHC. You must also declare any dependents. After receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UWA, you can apply for the visa online via ImmiAccount. Processing times vary (4–8 weeks typical). HeadStart Academy recommends checking the latest Department of Home Affairs requirements and consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalized advice. ESOS Act protections apply, including the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) if your provider closes.
Perth offers a unique study abroad experience: world-class beaches, a multicultural food scene, and a laid-back lifestyle. With over 30,000 international students across the city, you'll find strong support networks. However, consider the distance from other Australian capitals — flights to Sydney or Melbourne take 4–5 hours. The cost of living is lower than Sydney but higher than Adelaide. Public transport is efficient but not 24/7. If you value a balance between academic environment and nature, Perth is a great choice. Check UWA's international student services for accommodation options and pre-departure support.
Applying to study Not For Degree (Study Abroad) at The University of Western Australia is a straightforward process, guided by CRICOS registration. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and city (Perth). Use HeadStart Academy's course search to compare options. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (UWA is 00126G) to guarantee ESOS protections.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts) and submit an online application through UWA's application portal. Deadlines typically close two months before semester start. You will receive an offer letter if accepted.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): After accepting the offer and paying the deposit, UWA issues a CoE. Use this to apply for the visa online, providing evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Once granted, you can travel to Australia.
HeadStart Academy provides free resources to guide you through each step, but always verify with the provider and the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to explore study abroad in Australia? Browse more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy or request a free consultation.
View the full The University of Western Australia (UWA) profile →
Not For Degree (Study Abroad) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Western Australia (UWA). 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.