Visiting Researcher Program (52 weeks) (CRICOS course code 088554E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Sydney over 1 year. This program is classified under Mixed Field Programmes (129999) and is designed for international researchers who wish to undertake a supervised research project at one of Australia's top research universities. The University of Sydney (CRICOS 00026A) is a government-funded institution with a strong global reputation. The course is delivered across five locations in New South Wales, including the main Camperdown campus and specialist campuses in Camden and Surry Hills. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian government standards for international education. The indicative tuition fee is A$0, with no additional non-tuition fees, though students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa charges. This guide provides essential information for prospective applicants, including entry requirements, delivery locations, and visa pathways. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy is a free resource helping international students find CRICOS-registered courses across Australia.
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The Visiting Researcher Program (52 weeks) is a Non AQF Award offered by The University of Sydney (CRICOS 00026A). It falls under the field of education code 129999 (Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.) and is classified as a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The program is conducted entirely in English over 52 weeks. It does not include a mandatory work component. The VET national code is not applicable as this is not a VET course. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is available for international student enrolment under the Student visa (Subclass 500). The indicative fees are A$0 for tuition and non-tuition, but students must factor in OSHC, living expenses, and visa costs. The University of Sydney is a leading Australian university with a strong research focus, making this program ideal for researchers looking to advance their skills.
This program enables international researchers to engage in supervised research activities at The University of Sydney. While the specific research project is determined by the student and their supervisor, typical activities include literature review, experimental design, data collection and analysis, and preparation of a research report. The program is designed to enhance research skills, critical thinking, and academic writing. Graduates often progress to higher degrees by research (e.g., PhD) or pursue research careers in academia or industry. As a Mixed Field Programme, it allows flexibility across disciplines. The University of Sydney provides access to world-class facilities and expert supervision.
The Visiting Researcher Program has a duration of 52 weeks (1 year) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award). International students must study full-time to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The program does not involve any mandatory work component, but students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are as follows: Tuition fee: A$0; Non-tuition fee: A$0; Estimated total: A$0. These fees are set by The University of Sydney and may change without notice. Additional costs not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$500–700 per year; living costs – indicative A$20,000–25,000 per year; Student visa application charge (Subclass 500) – currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always confirm current fees with The University of Sydney before applying. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only.
Entry requirements for the Visiting Researcher Program are determined by The University of Sydney. While specific criteria may vary, typical expectations for a Non AQF Award at this level include: a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline; English language proficiency – commonly IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall or equivalent (check with the provider). Foundation or pathway studies are not applicable for this program. Applicants may need to submit a research proposal or outline. HeadStart Academy recommends visiting the official institution website for the most accurate and up-to-date entry requirements. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality standards.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled university breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are automatically granted with the visa. Students should ensure that any employment does not interfere with their study commitments.
The Visiting Researcher Program is delivered at five locations in New South Wales: Camden Campus (Plant Breeding Institute) in Cobbity, Camden Campus (Veterinary Science) in Camden, Mallett Street Campus in Camperdown, Surry Hills Campus in Surry Hills, and The University of Sydney main campus in Camperdown. These campuses are part of the Sydney metropolitan area, well-served by public transport. Sydney is home to over 200,000 international students and offers a vibrant multicultural environment. Indicative living costs in Sydney: weekly rent A$350–600; groceries A$80–150; public transport A$30–50. The city has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a major study destination.
International applicants must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Sydney; meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion; demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents; maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the stay; and providing evidence of English proficiency if required. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. Visa conditions are set by the Department of Home Affairs and are subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for guidance.
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Visiting Researcher Program (52 weeks) at The University of Sydney: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that The University of Sydney (CRICOS 00026A) offers this program with course code 088554E. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, evidence of English proficiency (if required), and a research proposal. Check application deadlines and submit your application through The University of Sydney's admissions portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for living costs.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a premier study destination, with over 200,000 international students and more than 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers. The University of Sydney's multiple campuses offer diverse environments, from the main Camperdown campus to specialised research facilities in Camden. However, the cost of living is high compared to other Australian cities. Consider your budget, desired lifestyle, and career goals. Sydney's strong economy and cultural scene provide ample opportunities for networking and research collaboration. Use HeadStart Academy to compare other courses and locations to find the best fit for your needs.
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Visiting Researcher Program (52 weeks) 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.