Cotutelle PHD program UNSW

Cotutelle PHD program at The University of New South Wales (UNSW)

Cotutelle PHD program (CRICOS course code 051359B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This program is classified under Field of Education 090000 - Society and Culture, n.f.d., and is designed for international students seeking a collaborative doctoral experience between UNSW and a partner institution overseas. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. UNSW is a leading public university with a strong research focus, located in Kensington, NSW. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you can study with confidence under the ESOS Act protections. Data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course overview

Cotutelle PHD program (CRICOS course code 051359B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 10 program falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (090000), allowing students to conduct original research under a joint supervision arrangement between UNSW and a partner university. Graduates typically develop advanced research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to contribute new knowledge to their field. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets strict quality standards for international students. UNSW is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses. The ESOS Act ensures your rights and tuition protection while studying. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees — data is sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026).

What you'll study

As a doctoral program in Society and Culture (field 090000), the Cotutelle PHD program involves independent research leading to a thesis. Students work with supervisors from both UNSW and a partner institution, allowing for cross-cultural academic exchange. The curriculum typically includes research methodology training, literature review, data collection and analysis, and thesis writing. While specific course content varies by research topic, graduates are expected to demonstrate mastery of their subject area and contribute original insights. This level of study is ideal for those aiming for careers in academia, research institutions, or high-level policy roles. UNSW's location in Kensington, Sydney, provides access to world-class libraries and research facilities.

Duration and study mode

The Cotutelle PHD program has a duration of 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks), as recorded on the CRICOS register. However, doctoral programs often require longer for completion; the CRICOS duration is the minimum registered timeframe. The course is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual award). There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to engage in full-time research. UNSW may offer flexible study arrangements, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy visa conditions. Always confirm the exact duration with the provider, as research degrees can vary.

Fees (indicative)

Tuition and non-tuition fees for the Cotutelle PHD program are set by The University of New South Wales (UNSW). The CRICOS register indicates indicative fees: tuition 'see provider', non-tuition 'see provider', and estimated total A$0. This means no specific fee is listed – you must check directly with UNSW. Costs typically range from AUD 35,000 to 50,000 per year for international doctoral students. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Sydney's cost of living is relatively high: indicative weekly rent AUD 400-600, groceries AUD 80-150, and public transport AUD 40-60. Always confirm current fees on the UNSW website before applying.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for the Cotutelle PHD program include an English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants typically need a prior qualification at master's level or a bachelor's degree with honours, demonstrating research capability. The provider may also require a research proposal and agreement from supervisors at both institutions. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; however, UNSW offers pre-research programs for some fields. For specific entry criteria, refer to the UNSW website. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider for precise details.

Work component

No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.

Delivery locations

The Cotutelle PHD program is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburban campus in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 6 km from the city centre. The campus is accessible via bus and light rail, with frequent services to Central Station and other hubs. Sydney has over 130 CRICOS-registered providers, making it the largest international student destination in Australia. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia: weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around AUD 500-700, with groceries and transport adding AUD 150-250. Students benefit from a vibrant multicultural environment, beaches, and cultural attractions. UNSW's Kensington campus offers modern facilities, libraries, and research centres.

Student visa

International students enrolling in the Cotutelle PHD program will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (AUD 21,041 per year for a single student), OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration of stay, and meeting English proficiency and health criteria. Dependents may apply for accompanying visas. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice. Visa outcomes are not guaranteed.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Cotutelle PHD program at The University of New South Wales (UNSW): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Society and Culture), and location (NSW). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (UNSW code 00098G). 2. Apply directly to the institution: Check UNSW's website for application deadlines (usually September/October for February intake). Prepare a research proposal, academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 6.5-7.0), and letters of recommendation. Submit your application online. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UNSW will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a visa application via ImmiAccount. Provide GTE, financial evidence, OSHC, and health checks. Wait for approval before travelling.

Ready to apply? Follow the steps above or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.

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Source-backed course facts

Cotutelle PHD program 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.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Cotutelle PHD program
CRICOS course code
051359B
Provider
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (00098G)
Course level
Doctoral Degree
Field of education
09 - Society and Culture
Duration
78 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
Not listed
Estimated total (indicative)
Not listed
Delivery locations
Kensington
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The CRICOS register does not list a specific tuition fee for this course (shown as 'see provider'). Indicative fees for international doctoral students at UNSW range from AUD 35,000 to 50,000 per year, but you must confirm directly with UNSW. OSHC, living costs, and visa charges are additional. For current fees, visit the UNSW website.
The CRICOS duration is 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). However, doctoral programs typically take longer to complete – most PhD students finish in 3-4 years. The 78 weeks is the minimum registered timeframe for student visa purposes. The actual time depends on research progress and institution policies.
General entry requirements include an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 overall, a relevant master's degree or bachelor's with honours, and a research proposal. You must also secure supervision from both UNSW and the partner institution. Specific requirements vary – consult UNSW's admissions page for exact details.
The program is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington campus in Sydney, NSW. The campus is in the eastern suburbs, well-connected by public transport. Some research activities may also take place at the partner institution overseas, as it is a cotutelle arrangement.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of Not listed for Cotutelle PHD program (tuition Not listed). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with The University of New South Wales (UNSW) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 051359B, offered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (provider code 00098G). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.