Postgraduate Research Exchange Program (2 Semesters) (CRICOS course code 053405G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Sydney over 1 year. This program is designed for international students who want to engage in research activities at one of Australia’s leading universities, gaining experience in a specific field while earning credit towards their home institution. The course is classified under Mixed Field Programmes, offering flexibility to explore various academic disciplines. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00026A), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register, to help you plan your study journey in Australia.
This Non AQF Award is part of the '12 - Mixed Field Programmes' field of education, specifically '129999 Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.'. Students enrolled in this program typically engage in independent research under the supervision of a University of Sydney academic, contributing to ongoing projects or developing their own research proposal. The program is tailored to allow participants to deepen their knowledge in a chosen area, develop critical thinking and analytical skills, and experience the Australian research environment. Graduates gain transferable skills highly valued in academia, industry, and government sectors. While the specific syllabus varies based on the research topic, the program emphasises self-directed learning, scholarly writing, and effective communication of research findings. It is ideal for students who wish to expand their academic network and explore potential PhD pathways.
The Postgraduate Research Exchange Program (2 Semesters) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 1 year (52 weeks). All instruction is delivered in English, making it accessible to international students who meet the language requirements. The program is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. It is not a VET course, so there is no national VET code. Students are expected to be enrolled full-time and may need to comply with the University's academic calendar, which typically includes two semesters. As a research-oriented program, students are expected to work closely with their supervisor and may have access to university facilities such as libraries, labs, and online resources.
Tuition fees for this program are not fixed in the CRICOS register; the provider sets them. Students should 'see provider' for current tuition and non-tuition fees. The estimated total indicated on the register is A$1, which is a placeholder and not a real fee. Actual fees will be confirmed upon application. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included in this estimate. For accurate and up-to-date fee information, visit the University of Sydney's website at http://sydney.edu.au. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm directly with the institution before budgeting.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Non AQF Award, the University of Sydney may require a higher level (e.g., IELTS 7.0) given the research nature. Prior qualifications: applicants should have completed at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and be enrolled in a postgraduate program at their home university. The program is exchange-based, so students must be nominated by their home institution. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable; refer to the provider for specific entry criteria. It is essential to check the University's website for the most current requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs and gain local experience.
This course is delivered at The University of Sydney — CAMPERDOWN, NSW. Camperdown is a suburb in inner-west Sydney, approximately 3 km from the Sydney CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and trains (Redfern Station is nearby). Sydney is Australia’s largest city with over 200,000 international students and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; indicative weekly expenses include rent (A$350–600 for shared accommodation), groceries (A$80–150), and public transport (A$40–70). These are estimates only and should be verified with current cost of living guides.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English language standards. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). OSHC is mandatory. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice, as we do not provide immigration services.
Sydney offers a vibrant multicultural environment with world-class universities, including the University of Sydney. The city is a hub for research and innovation, with strong links to industry. However, the cost of living is high, and accommodation can be competitive. Students should consider their budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals. Sydney’s public transport network makes it easy to explore, and the city has a thriving arts and food scene. For those seeking a balance of academic excellence and urban lifestyle, Sydney is an excellent choice. HeadStart Academy provides this data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to empower your decision-making.
Follow these three steps to apply for Postgraduate Research Exchange Program (2 Semesters) at The University of Sydney: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free resource to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check the University of Sydney's website for entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the University will issue a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of OSHC and financial capacity.
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Postgraduate Research Exchange Program (2 Semesters) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. 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.