Masters Qualifying Program (CRICOS course code 092169B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is designed for international students who have completed a bachelor's degree but require additional academic preparation to meet entry requirements for a master's degree at Swinburne. It focuses on business and management foundations, studying under field 080300 - Business and Management. As a pathway program, it helps students develop the skills and knowledge needed for postgraduate success. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – Australia's trusted government database of registered courses and providers. HeadStart Academy is a free resource for international students, with no referral fees. Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers like Swinburne can enrol international students, ensuring ESOS Act protections apply.
Masters Qualifying Program (CRICOS course code 092169B) is a Non AQF Award – a qualification not aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) but designed to bridge skills for higher study. Delivered by Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D, Government), it runs for 26 weeks (approximately 6 months) in English. The program falls under the broad field of Education: 08 - Management and Commerce, specifically 0803 - Business and Management, and 080300 - Business and Management, n.f.d. This means graduates gain foundational knowledge in business principles, management strategies, and analytical skills. Swinburne is a well-known university with a strong international student community, located in Hawthorn, Melbourne. The course does not lead to a dual qualification nor is it foundation studies. There is no VET national code as it is not a vocational course. Work component is absent. Indicative tuition fee is A$15,000, with no non-tuition fees listed, totaling A$15,000 (excluding OSHC, living costs, and visa application charges).
While specific syllabi are set by Swinburne, students in this business and management pathway typically develop skills in critical thinking, research methods, academic writing, and introductory business concepts. The field 080300 - Business and Management (not further defined) covers core areas such as organisational behaviour, marketing basics, financial literacy, and strategic planning. Graduates are prepared to articulate into master's programs in business, management, or related fields. The program emphasises Australian academic conventions and independent learning, essential for success in postgraduate study. As an international student, you'll also gain cross-cultural communication skills. Always check with Swinburne for the exact subjects offered.
The Masters Qualifying Program is listed on CRICOS as 26 weeks (~6 months). This is a full-time course delivered in English. It is a single qualification, not part of a package. Study mode is typically on-campus at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus. The program is designed to be an intensive pathway, so you'll need to commit to regular classes and assignments. There is no distance or online option listed. Language: English. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards for international student enrolment.
Tuition fee for the Masters Qualifying Program is A$15,000 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register April 2026). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but note that these do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check Swinburne's international website: https://www.swinburne.edu.au/international. Living expenses in Melbourne are estimated at around A$1,500–$2,000 per month, including rent (approx. A$200–$400 per week for shared accommodation), groceries ($80–$150 per week), and transport ($30–$50 per week). These are guides only. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition is safeguarded.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this program, Swinburne may require IELTS 6.0 or equivalent. Academic entry: a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent. No specific foundation or pathway options from other providers – this program itself is a pathway. Prior qualifications in any discipline are usually accepted. Always confirm with Swinburne as requirements can change. International students must also meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria.
This course has no work component. No mandatory internship, practicum, or work placement is included. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Work opportunities can be found in Melbourne's vibrant economy.
Masters Qualifying Program is delivered at Swinburne College Pty Ltd, Hawthorn Campus, John Street Hawthorn – Hawthorn, VIC. Hawthorn is a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, making it Australia's largest student city. The campus is well-connected by tram and train, and close to cafes, libraries, and student accommodation. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney. The city offers a multicultural environment with strong support for international students.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while in session, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement means you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. You also need to show sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and dependants. ESOS Act protects your rights. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a MARA registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Compare Swinburne's Masters Qualifying Program with similar offerings. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your documents – prior academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and any required statements. Check Swinburne's application deadlines and submit online via their international application portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you accept the offer and pay the deposit, Swinburne will issue a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with DHA, including OSHC evidence and financials.
This course is ideal if you have a bachelor's degree but need to strengthen your academic skills for a master's in business or management. It's a fast, 6-month pathway into Swinburne's postgraduate programs. Consider if you can afford the total cost: $15,000 tuition plus living expenses of about $9,000–$12,000 for 6 months (excluding OSHC and visa fees). Melbourne offers excellent student life, but the coursework is intensive. If you prefer a longer foundation, explore other options. Always check that this course aligns with your career goals and that the provider is CRICOS-registered (Swinburne is).
Ready to start your journey? Explore the Masters Qualifying Program at Swinburne University of Technology and take the next step toward your master's degree.
Masters Qualifying Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.