Study Abroad – Research (Fee Band 3) (CRICOS course code 094126G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This course is designed for international students seeking a research-oriented study abroad experience at one of Australia’s leading universities. It falls under the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes, offering flexibility to explore interdisciplinary research topics. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, are subject to the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student rights. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
Study Abroad – Research (Fee Band 3) is a Non AQF Award course registered under CRICOS code 094126G. The course is offered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) (CRICOS 00116K), a public university located in Parkville, Victoria. The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks), with instruction in English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include a work component or foundation studies. As a fee band 3 course, it attracts a higher tuition fee, indicative at A$48,510 total. This course is not a VET course, so no VET national code applies. The University of Melbourne is one of Australia’s Group of Eight universities and is highly regarded globally. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses in Australia, this course represents a research-focused option for students looking to deepen their academic skills.
The field of education for this course is 12 – Mixed Field Programmes, specifically 129999 – Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. As a Non AQF Award, the course does not align to a specific Australian Qualifications Framework level but is designed for students seeking a research experience. Typical learning outcomes include developing research methodologies, critical analysis, and independent project management. While the exact syllabus is set by The University of Melbourne, students can expect to engage in supervised research projects, literature reviews, and possibly produce a research paper or thesis. This course is ideal for those who want to explore a specific topic in depth without committing to a full degree program. It may also serve as a pathway to higher degrees by research, though students should confirm with the provider.
The CRICOS register lists the duration of Study Abroad – Research (Fee Band 3) as 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks. The language of instruction is English. The course is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include a mandatory work component. Students are expected to study full-time on campus at The University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus. There is no VET national code as this is not a VET course. The duration is fixed; part-time options are generally not available for international students on a Student visa without specific approval.
Indicative fees for Study Abroad – Research (Fee Band 3) are as follows (sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026): Tuition fee: A$48,510; Non-tuition fees: A$0; Estimated total cost: A$48,510. Please note: these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover (check providers). Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$30,000–A$35,000 per year (including rent, food, transport) according to the Department of Home Affairs. For the most current fees, visit The University of Melbourne’s official website: http://www.unimelb.edu.au/. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
Entry requirements for Study Abroad – Research (Fee Band 3) are determined by The University of Melbourne. Generally, students must have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12 and may need to have prior academic results sufficient for university entry. English language proficiency is required – typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level (the provider sets specific requirements). Students may also need to submit a research proposal or obtain a supervisor’s agreement. International students should also check their academic qualifications are recognised. There is no foundation or pathway component within this course, but The University of Melbourne offers pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always confirm entry requirements with the provider.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Work must not interfere with studies. The university’s career services can help find part-time work. Note that any work is optional and not part of the course.
The course is delivered at The University of Melbourne’s main campus in Parkville, Victoria. Parkville is a suburb close to Melbourne’s central business district (CBD). Melbourne is Victoria’s capital city, home to over 5 million people and a large international student community. Melbourne has more than 10 CRICOS-registered providers, including The University of Melbourne, RMIT, Monash University, and others. The city offers excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) connecting Parkville to the CBD and other suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne are relatively high: indicative weekly expenses (rent A$200–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, transport A$40–A$60). The ESOS Act protects students at all CRICOS-registered providers.
International students enrolling in Study Abroad – Research (Fee Band 3) will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights (48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled course breaks). To obtain a visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. After receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the university, you can apply online via the Department of Home Affairs. Visa processing times vary. Remember: HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a registered MARA agent for advice.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities. It offers a vibrant arts scene, diverse food culture, and world-class universities. The city has a strong public transport system, making it easy to navigate without a car. However, the cost of living can be high, especially for rent in popular areas. International students make up a significant portion of the population, so support services are widespread. Consider your budget, climate preferences (Melbourne has variable weather), and lifestyle when choosing. For research-focused students, The University of Melbourne provides excellent libraries, labs, and academic networks.
Applying for Study Abroad – Research (Fee Band 3) at The University of Melbourne is straightforward:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers:** Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and city (Melbourne) on HeadStart Academy. Compare courses and confirm eligibility.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution:** Check entry requirements (e.g., academic transcripts, English test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE). Submit your application online through The University of Melbourne’s admissions portal. Pay attention to application deadlines (usually semester-based). You may need to provide a research proposal or letter of support.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa:** Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via ImmiAccount. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. After visa grant, you can travel to Australia and commence studies.
Ready to explore Study Abroad – Research (Fee Band 3)? Visit The University of Melbourne’s website to start your application or use HeadStart Academy to compare more courses.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Study Abroad - Research (Fee Band 3) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). 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.