University Exchange Year (CRICOS course code 050639B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Queensland University of Technology (QUT) over 1 year. This course is designed for international students who wish to spend a year studying at QUT as part of an exchange program with their home institution. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00213J), QUT offers this program to give students a unique Australian academic experience without completing a full degree. During the program, you will study subjects from various fields, tailored to your home degree requirements. Brisbane, where QUT's Gardens Point campus is located, is a vibrant student city with over 50,000 international students and excellent public transport. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. This free resource covers over 26,000 courses across Australia, and ESOS Act protections apply to every course.
University Exchange Year (CRICOS 050639B) is a Non AQF Award programme offered by Queensland University of Technology (QUT), a government-owned university. The field of education is Mixed Field Programmes (12) with a focus on other mixed field programmes (129999). This course is ideal for students enrolled in a degree overseas who want to spend one academic year (52 weeks) at QUT. It is not a dual qualification, foundation studies, or VET course. There is no mandatory work component. The language of instruction is English. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, this program is subject to the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections. QUT is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering a wide range of choices for students.
The University Exchange Year falls under the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes, which encompasses interdisciplinary or customised study plans. Students typically select subjects from multiple disciplines to fulfil their home institution's requirements. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing you to choose from QUT's extensive course catalogue. Graduates from exchange programs gain global perspective, cross-cultural communication skills, and academic enrichment. While specific syllabi vary by student, common learning outcomes include adaptability, research skills, and an understanding of Australian academic conventions. This field of education (129999) covers programmes not elsewhere classified, making it highly adaptable to individual needs.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). Study is full-time in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies option. This is a single qualification course. QUT offers this program in a standard semester-based format, typically starting in February or July. You will be expected to attend classes at the Gardens Point campus in Brisbane. The structured 52-week period includes teaching weeks, exam periods, and scheduled breaks. As an exchange student, you may also have access to online resources and library facilities. Note that this is not a VET course (national code N/A).
The indicative tuition fee for University Exchange Year is A$0, as exchange students often pay fees to their home institution rather than QUT. However, non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,200, covering administrative costs, student services, and amenities. The estimated total is A$1,200. Important: These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's official website (qut.edu.au). Fees shown are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Brisbane's cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne; estimated weekly expenses for a single student are approximately A$400–600 including rent, groceries, and transport.
Entry requirements for University Exchange Year are set by QUT. Generally, you must be enrolled in a degree at your home institution and nominated by your university's exchange office. English language proficiency is required, typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on the course level and partner agreement. Prior academic qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 or higher are expected. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; contact QUT for specific criteria. Always refer to the provider for accurate requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends checking with QUT's exchange team and the Department of Home Affairs for visa-related conditions.
This course has no work component. There is no mandatory work placement or internship included. However, as a student visa holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is separate from the course and should not interfere with your studies. Refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current work rights.
The course is delivered at QUT's Gardens Point campus in Brisbane, Queensland. Brisbane is a major Australian city with a large student population, including over 50,000 international students from diverse backgrounds. The campus is easily accessible by public transport, including buses, trains, and ferries along the Brisbane River. The city offers a subtropical climate, vibrant cultural scene, and relatively affordable living costs compared to other state capitals. There are numerous CRICOS-registered providers in Brisbane, offering a wide choice for students. The Gardens Point campus is located in the CBD, close to the river and botanical gardens.
International students studying this course on campus require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory course progress, and attendance. You must hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies. Financial capacity requirements must be met. For visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides guidance only, not migration advice.
Applying for University Exchange Year at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) involves three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses and providers. Filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that the University Exchange Year (CRICOS 050639B) meets your goals.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Complete the application process through your home university's exchange office. Ensure you meet entry requirements, including English language tests and academic prerequisites. Note application deadlines.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, QUT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Brisbane offers a high quality of life for international students. With a warm climate, affordable cost of living (weekly rent A$200–350 for shared accommodation), and excellent public transport, it is a popular destination. The city has a diverse population and a strong job market for students. QUT's Gardens Point campus is located in the heart of the city, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. Brisbane is also close to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, offering beach and outdoor activities. Consider your preferences for weather, lifestyle, and budget when choosing Brisbane.
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University Exchange Year is a CRICOS-registered programme at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). 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.