Non Award: Exchange (CRICOS course code 081040K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Institute Pty Ltd over 20 weeks. This course is designed for international students seeking a short-term exchange experience in Australia, offering exposure to mixed field programmes under the broader field of Mixed Field Programmes (12). Holmes Institute, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 02767C), delivers this course at its York Street campus in Sydney, NSW. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students, ensuring quality education under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) provides this detailed guide to help you evaluate whether Non Award: Exchange aligns with your academic and career goals. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, and Holmes Institute is one of 1,556 such providers offering over 26,000 courses across Australia.
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Non Award: Exchange (CRICOS course code 081040K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Institute Pty Ltd over 20 weeks. This course falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (12), specifically 'Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.' (129999). It is a non-award exchange program, meaning it does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but provides students with an enriching academic and cultural experience in Sydney. Holmes Institute, established as a private provider, has been delivering education to international students for years, operating from its York Street campus in the heart of Sydney's central business district. The course is conducted in English and is designed for students who wish to study abroad without committing to a full degree program. As a CRICOS-registered course, it adheres to the stringent quality standards of the Australian education system, ensuring that international students receive the protections outlined in the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act.
The field of Mixed Field Programmes encompasses interdisciplinary studies that combine elements from various academic areas. Specifically, the subfield 'Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.' (not elsewhere classified) covers a broad range of cross-disciplinary subjects. While the exact curriculum for Non Award: Exchange is set by Holmes Institute, students can expect to engage in coursework that fosters critical thinking, communication skills, and cultural awareness. This level of study (Non AQF Award) is typically introductory and aims to provide a foundational understanding of multiple disciplines. Graduates of such programs often gain a global perspective and enhanced adaptability, which are valuable in today's interconnected world. Since this is an exchange program, the focus is on experiential learning and exposure to Australian academic culture, rather than specialized vocational training.
The CRICOS register lists the duration of Non Award: Exchange as 20 weeks. This is a full-time course delivered in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. It is a single qualification (non-award) and does not include a work component. The course is campus-based at Holmes Institute's York Street location, with classes conducted in a face-to-face setting. As an international student, you would be expected to maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions. The 20-week duration makes it ideal for a semester exchange or a short-term academic experience in Australia.
Tuition fees for Non Award: Exchange are set by Holmes Institute Pty Ltd and are subject to change. According to the CRICOS register, the estimated total cost for this course is A$8,200. However, this is an indicative figure only. Tuition fees are listed as 'see provider', meaning you should contact Holmes Institute directly for the most current fee schedule. Non-tuition fees (such as application fees, materials, etc.) are also set by the provider and may vary. Importantly, the estimated total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC can cost approximately A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs in Sydney (including rent, food, and transport) are around A$2,000–A$2,500 per month. Always confirm fees on the Holmes Institute website before applying.
Entry requirements for Non Award: Exchange are determined by Holmes Institute. As a non-award course, the institution may require evidence of previous study at a comparable level, such as completion of secondary schooling or partial tertiary study. English language proficiency is typically required for international students. While the exact score is set by the provider, common benchmarks for non-award courses are IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may accept alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE. It is essential to check the specific entry requirements on Holmes Institute's website. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable to this course, as it is a short-term exchange program. For detailed admissions guidance, refer to the provider directly.
No work component – This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students enrolled in Non Award: Exchange are not required to undertake any work placement or internship as part of their studies. However, student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain casual work experience in Sydney while studying.
Non Award: Exchange is delivered at Holmes Institute (York Street) – RTO Operations, located in Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and a vibrant international student community. The York Street campus is situated in the Sydney central business district, close to public transport including trains, buses, and ferries. Sydney offers a high standard of living with a diverse cultural scene, but living costs are among the highest in Australia. The city has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Studying in Sydney means access to world-class amenities, beaches, and a multicultural environment. Whether you choose Sydney or another city, always verify the campus location on the CRICOS register.
To study Non Award: Exchange at Holmes Institute, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus additional time for travel. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for a CRICOS-registered course, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English proficiency as specified by the provider. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. You must maintain OSHC for the entire visa period. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Non Award: Exchange at Holmes Institute Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to filter courses by level, field, and city. Ensure Holmes Institute (CRICOS 02767C) is listed for this course. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check Holmes Institute's website for entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with required documents (transcripts, English test results, passport copy). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Holmes Institute will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
Sydney is a top destination for international students, offering a dynamic mix of academic excellence, career opportunities, and lifestyle. With over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, you'll find a wide range of courses. However, the cost of living is high – indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$300–A$500, groceries A$100–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60. The city boasts excellent public transport, but traffic can be heavy. If you prefer a more affordable city, consider Melbourne, Brisbane, or Perth. Your choice should align with your budget, study preferences, and career goals. HeadStart Academy's location guides can help you compare cities.
Ready to start your Australian study journey? Browse more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy or contact Holmes Institute directly for application details.
Non Award: Exchange is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmes Institute Pty Ltd. 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.