Tertiary Preparation Program (Health Sciences) (CRICOS course code 073628D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year. This program is designed for international students who wish to build foundational knowledge in health sciences before progressing to higher-level studies. The course falls under the field of education '06 - Health', specifically '069999 - Health, n.e.c.', and is offered across three vibrant Australian cities: Brisbane (Banyo), Melbourne (Fitzroy), and North Sydney. As a CRICOS-registered course (00004G), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. With an indicative total fee of A$20,000 and no mandatory work component, this program provides a focused pathway for students aiming to enter health-related undergraduate degrees. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accurate and up-to-date information for prospective students.
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Tertiary Preparation Program (Health Sciences) (CRICOS course code 073628D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year (52 weeks). This program is intended for international students seeking to strengthen their academic foundation in health sciences prior to enrolling in a bachelor's degree. The course is classified under the field of education '06 - Health', specifically '069999 - Health, n.e.c.', indicating a broad health focus. Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a government-funded institution with CRICOS registration 00004G, meaning it is legally authorised to enrol overseas students. The program is delivered in English and does not include a work component or dual qualification. Note that this is not a foundation studies program in the traditional sense; it is a standalone preparatory course. All CRICOS-registered providers are subject to ESOS Act protections, ensuring your rights as an international student are safeguarded. Australia offers over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses across 1,500+ providers — this program is one of many pathways to a health career.
As a Non AQF Award at the health sciences preparatory level, the curriculum typically covers introductory topics in human biology, health communication, academic writing, and quantitative skills. Students develop foundational knowledge relevant to fields such as nursing, public health, or allied health. While HeadStart Academy does not provide specific syllabus details (these are set by Australian Catholic University directly), the course is designed to prepare you for the academic demands of a bachelor's degree in health. The field of education code 069999 indicates a general health focus, meaning the program may include interdisciplinary content. Graduates of such preparatory programs typically gain skills in critical thinking, research literacy, and basic health science concepts. This course is distinct from vocational education and training (VET) qualifications — it is an academic preparation pathway. Always confirm the exact subjects with Australian Catholic University before enrolling.
The Tertiary Preparation Program (Health Sciences) has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time, single qualification course delivered entirely in English. There is no dual qualification or integrated work component. Students are expected to commit to a standard academic year of study, with classes likely held on campus at one of ACU's three locations. The program does not include a VET national code, confirming it is not a vocational course. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. ACU may offer part-time or online options — verify directly with the provider. As an indicative guide, the cost of living in Brisbane, Melbourne, and North Sydney varies: weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$200–$400, groceries around A$80–$150, and public transport A$30–$60. These figures are not exhaustive and are subject to change.
The indicative tuition fee for Tertiary Preparation Program (Health Sciences) is A$20,000 for the full 52-week program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but this may not include additional costs such as textbooks, materials, or student services fees — confirm with ACU. The estimated total fee is A$20,000, but this does not cover Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–$600 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by city: in Brisbane, expect weekly rent of $200–$350; in Melbourne, $220–$400; in North Sydney, $300–$500. Always check Australian Catholic University's website (www.acu.edu.au) for the most current fee schedule. Fees are set by institutions and are subject to change — HeadStart Academy recommends confirming before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Non AQF Award, ACU may require a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 (with no band below 5.0) or equivalent. Prior academic qualifications: applicants should have completed Year 12 (or equivalent) in their home country. Some students may enter via a foundation or pathway program — check ACU's entry requirements directly. The course does not have specific prerequisite subjects listed on CRICOS, but a background in science or health may be advantageous. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement as part of the visa application. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance. Note that meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission — ACU makes the final decision.
No work component is included in this course. The Tertiary Preparation Program (Health Sciences) does not have a mandatory work placement, internship, or professional experience requirement. This is a purely academic preparatory program. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions set by the Department of Home Affairs. The absence of a work component means you can focus entirely on your studies without the pressure of balancing work placement hours. If you are seeking a course with built-in practical experience, consider bachelor's degrees in health fields that include clinical placements.
This course is delivered at three Australian Catholic University campuses: Australian Catholic University-Brisbane Campus in BANYO, QLD; Australian Catholic University-Melbourne Campus in FITZROY, VIC; and Australian Catholic University-North Sydney Campus in NORTH SYDNEY, NSW. Brisbane is Queensland's capital, home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a cost of living lower than Sydney or Melbourne. Fitzroy is an inner-city suburb of Melbourne, a major education hub with more than 150 providers. North Sydney is a short distance from Sydney's CBD, surrounded by numerous universities and colleges. Each campus is accessible via public transport: Brisbane Campus near buses and trains, Melbourne Campus near trams and trains, and North Sydney Campus near trains and ferries. When choosing a location, consider climate, part-time job opportunities, and community size. HeadStart Academy's data from the CRICOS register (April 2026) confirms these delivery sites.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian Catholic University, evidence of financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. Your visa will allow you to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependents may apply for Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) if applicable. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, guaranteeing quality education and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends visiting homeaffairs.gov.au for official visa information and consulting a MARA-registered agent for complex cases. Visa processing times vary — apply early after receiving your CoE.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Australian Catholic University (CRICOS 00004G) meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to ACU — check entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts, etc.) and application deadlines. Submit your application through ACU's international admissions portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once ACU issues your CoE, lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Don't forget to arrange OSHC and prepare your GTE statement. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — we do not charge fees or receive commissions.
Choosing between Brisbane, Melbourne, and North Sydney depends on your preferences. Brisbane offers a subtropical climate, lower living costs (weekly rent ~$250), and a growing international student community. Melbourne is known for its culture, higher cost of living (~$300 rent), and extensive public transport. North Sydney is convenient for those wanting proximity to Sydney's CBD, but rent is higher (~$400). All three campuses are well-connected. Consider factors like part-time job availability: Melbourne and Sydney have larger job markets, while Brisbane offers a more relaxed pace. The course content is identical across locations, so your choice comes down to lifestyle. HeadStart Academy's location guides can provide further details for each city. Remember, Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers — you have options.
Ready to apply? Follow the three-step guide above: research providers on HeadStart Academy, apply directly to Australian Catholic University, then secure your CoE and Student visa. Start your journey to studying health sciences in Australia today.
View the full Australian Catholic University Limited profile →
Tertiary Preparation Program (Health Sciences) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Catholic University Limited. 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.