Transition Program (CRICOS course code 060623E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 19 weeks. This course is designed to prepare students for further study at UNSW, building foundational academic skills and English language proficiency. It is part of the General Education Programmes field (120199) and serves as a pathway for international students who need additional preparation before entering undergraduate or postgraduate studies. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy sources this data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to provide you with accurate, up-to-date information.
Transition Program falls under the broad field of General Education Programmes (12), specifically General Education Programmes, n.e.c. (120199). This field covers preparatory and bridging courses that do not lead to a specific qualification but equip students with skills for future academic success. While the exact curriculum is set by UNSW, typical learning outcomes include academic reading and writing, critical thinking, research skills, and English language competence. Graduates of this level are expected to be ready for university-level study, with enhanced communication and analytical abilities. The program may also include subject-specific introductions depending on the intended degree pathway. UNSW, a leading Australian university (Group of Eight), designs this course to align with the expectations of its undergraduate programs.
The Transition Program has a duration of 19 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and the course is a single qualification (not a dual award). It does not count as foundation studies. The study mode is typically full-time, on-campus at UNSW's Kensington campus. UNSW may offer this program in multiple intakes per year; check their website for exact start dates. Since it is a Non AQF Award, it does not correspond to an AQF level, but it serves as a preparatory step for higher education.
The indicative tuition fee for Transition Program is A$22,300, with non-tuition fees of A$500, giving an estimated total of A$22,800. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Out-of-pocket costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$600–1,000 per week in Sydney for rent, groceries, and transport), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees with UNSW at www.unsw.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy does not set or guarantee any fees.
English language requirements for Transition Program vary by provider. For this level, a typical IELTS overall score of 5.5–7.0 is expected, though UNSW may specify exact bands. Prior qualifications: completion of Year 12 or equivalent (Australian or overseas). As a preparatory course, it may also accept students who have not met direct entry requirements for a UNSW degree. Foundation or pathway options: refer to UNSW for alternative entry programs. UNSW also considers previous academic history and may require a minimum GPA. Check the specific entry criteria on the UNSW website as requirements can change.
No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work or internship 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. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including access to welfare and support services.
Transition Program is delivered at the University of New South Wales – Kensington, NSW. Kensington is an inner-south suburb of Sydney, approximately 7 km from the city centre. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 4 million people, with a large international student population (over 150,000). The campus is accessible via public transport (bus and light rail) and is near popular suburbs like Randwick and Kingsford. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$250–400, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$30–50. UNSW is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering students a high-quality education in a vibrant, multicultural city.
To study Transition Program at UNSW, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus any accompanying time. Key conditions: you must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, and hold OSHC for the entire visa period. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence is required to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. OSHC costs vary by provider; budget around A$500–700 per year for single cover. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Sydney offers a world-class education infrastructure, but it's important to weigh the costs and lifestyle. With over 20 CRICOS-registered universities and many VET providers, Sydney has the highest concentration of international students in Australia. The city is known for its beaches, cultural diversity, and job opportunities in sectors like finance, tech, and hospitality. However, living costs are high, especially rent. If you prefer a more affordable city, consider Adelaide or Hobart. UNSW is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities globally, providing strong networking and career prospects. The Transition Program itself is a stepping stone to a degree at UNSW, one of Australia's most prestigious institutions. Think about your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals before deciding.
Ready to begin your academic journey? Explore Transition Program on UNSW's website or contact their admissions team for the latest intake dates and application steps.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Transition 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.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.