Professional Practicum - All Faculties - 104 weeks (CRICOS 061132E) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW)

What you'll study

The Professional Practicum is conducted over 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register) and is delivered in English. It is a single qualification with no dual certification or foundation studies component. Classes are held on campus at UNSW Kensington, allowing for face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers. The full-time structure typically requires a commitment of around 20 hours per week including classes, workshops, and practicum placements. Students are expected to manage their time effectively to balance academic requirements with practical components. As an international student, you will need to maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with student visa conditions under the ESOS Act.

Fees (indicative — set by The University of New South Wales (UNSW))

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$4,330, with additional non-tuition fees of A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$6,330. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change by the provider. Please note that this total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees and a detailed breakdown, always check the UNSW website or contact their admissions office. Living costs in Sydney are estimated at around A$25,000 per year for a single student, including accommodation (A$350–550 per week for rent), groceries, transport, and other expenses. The visa application fee for a Student visa (Subclass 500) is currently A$710. Budgeting for these additional costs is essential for your financial capacity assessment.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

Entry requirements for the Professional Practicum vary by provider, but typical expectations for a Non AQF Award at UNSW include: a completed bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field, and English language proficiency demonstrated through an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Requirements may differ depending on your chosen faculty within UNSW. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level, but you should consult UNSW for any prerequisite subjects or work experience. Always check the official UNSW website or contact their international admissions team for the most accurate and up-to-date criteria.

Work component

The Professional Practicum is delivered at The University of New South Wales (UNSW) — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a vibrant suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 6 km from the city centre. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and a major hub for international students, with more than 150,000 enrolled across various institutions. The city has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Public transport options to the Kensington campus include buses from Central Station and light rail services. Living in Sydney offers a diverse cultural experience, but cost of living is higher than the national average — budget around A$500–600 per week for accommodation, food, and transport.

Student visa

International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term (unlimited during breaks), and travel to and from Australia. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. You also need to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity evidence is required to show you can cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if any). The visa application charge is currently A$710 (may vary). For detailed advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs website or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Professional Practicum at UNSW: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au) to verify that UNSW is registered to deliver this course (CRICOS 00098G). You can also explore other courses and providers on HeadStart Academy. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to UNSW International Admissions. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines — UNSW typically has multiple intake periods (February, June, September). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once UNSW offers you a place and you accept, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. You must provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Visa processing can take several weeks, so apply early.

Is Sydney right for you?

Sydney is a dynamic city with a strong economy, stunning beaches, and a multicultural population. It is home to world-class universities, including UNSW, which is consistently ranked among the top 50 globally. The city offers a vibrant student life with numerous events, networking opportunities, and part-time jobs. However, the high cost of living and competitive housing market can be challenging. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals when deciding. Sydney's public transport network makes it easy to explore, but travel costs add up. If you prefer a more affordable city, other Australian destinations like Adelaide or Brisbane might suit you better. Ultimately, UNSW's strong industry connections and reputation make it an excellent choice for a practicum program.

FAQ

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Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy.

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