Are you considering a student exchange program in Australia? The Student Exchange Program (CRICOS course code 095995K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by University of Southern Queensland (USQ) over 1 year, offering you the chance to study in Queensland while experiencing Australian university life. This course is designed for international students who want to immerse themselves in a new academic and cultural environment, often as part of an exchange agreement between their home university and USQ. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00244B), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. Whether you aim to broaden your academic horizons, improve your English, or explore Australia's vibrant communities, this program provides a structured yet flexible pathway. HeadStart Academy provides this information based on the official CRICOS register (April 2026). All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your studies are protected under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, you have many options. This page focuses on the Student Exchange Program at USQ, including fees, entry requirements, and how to apply.
Student Exchange Program (CRICOS course code 095995K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by University of Southern Queensland over 1 year. It is classified under Field of Education 129999 - Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c., which encompasses interdisciplinary studies that combine multiple academic areas. As a Non AQF Award, this course does not lead to a formal Australian Qualifications Framework qualification but provides academic credit and experience that may be transferred to your home institution. University of Southern Queensland (USQ) is a government-operated university with multiple campuses in Queensland: Ipswich, Springfield, and Toowoomba. The CRICOS register shows that USQ (provider code 00244B) is approved to enrol international students, and all courses listed here are current as of 1 April 2026. This program typically involves students from partner universities spending one or two semesters at USQ, taking a range of subjects from USQ's undergraduate offerings. The duration of 52 weeks reflects a full academic year. Language of instruction is English, and the course has no dual qualification or foundation studies component.
As a program within Mixed Field Programmes (n.e.c.), the Student Exchange Program allows you to select from a wide array of subjects across USQ's faculties. This interdisciplinary approach means you can tailor your study plan to your academic goals and home degree requirements. Typical areas include business, arts, sciences, engineering, and health. You'll gain exposure to Australian teaching methods, collaborative learning, and assessment styles. While the specific syllabus depends on your chosen subjects, you will develop critical thinking, communication, and cross-cultural competencies. The Non AQF Award level ensures that the program is not tied to a specific qualification but serves as a flexible exchange experience. It is ideal for students who want to explore a new discipline, fulfil elective units, or research topics not available at their home institution. Remember, this course is not a pathway to further study in Australia unless you apply separately; it is primarily an exchange opportunity. For detailed subject availability, consult USQ's official course catalogue.
The Student Exchange Program has a CRICOS-registered duration of 1 year (52 weeks). It is a full-time program with English as the language of instruction. The course is a single qualification (no dual award) and is not classified as foundation studies. As an exchange program, it typically runs over two semesters (or equivalent) within a standard academic year. You should check with USQ for exact start dates and semester calendars. The program is delivered on campus at USQ's three locations (Ipswich, Springfield, and Toowoomba) and may include some online components depending on subject choices. The workload is equivalent to a full-time load of 40 credit points per year. This duration excludes any vacation periods or breaks. International students should maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative fees for the Student Exchange Program are as follows: tuition fee A$17,400 per year, non-tuition fees A$0, and estimated total cost A$17,400. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the University of Southern Queensland. Please note that fees are indicative and subject to change — always confirm directly with USQ before applying. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). For exchange students, your home institution may have separate fee arrangements. USQ's website provides the most up-to-date fee information. HeadStart Academy does not charge any fees; we are a free resource. As a CRICOS-registered provider, USQ must adhere to the ESOS Act, which protects your tuition fees through the Tuition Protection Service.
Entry requirements for the Student Exchange Program vary by provider. Generally, you must be enrolled in a degree at a partner university of USQ and be nominated by your home institution for exchange. English language proficiency is required — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on the subjects you intend to take. Some subjects may require higher scores. Prior academic qualifications: you should have completed at least one year of undergraduate study with a satisfactory grade point average. There are no foundation or pathway options specifically for this exchange program. You may also need to meet prerequisites for specific subjects. Check USQ's exchange program page for detailed requirements. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa application. Consult USQ's international admissions office for personalised guidance.
This course has no work component. The Student Exchange Program does not include a mandatory internship, placement, or work experience. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work is not part of the academic program but can supplement your study experience. Always comply with visa conditions regarding work. For more details on work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The Student Exchange Program is delivered at three University of Southern Queensland campuses: USQ (Ipswich) in Ipswich, QLD; USQ (Springfield) in SPRINGFIELD LAKES, QLD; and USQ (Toowoomba) in TOOWOOMBA, QLD. Ipswich is a growing city about 40 km west of Brisbane, with a population of over 200,000. Springfield is a master-planned community in the Greater Brisbane area, with modern facilities and good public transport links. Toowoomba is a regional city on the Darling Downs, about 125 km west of Brisbane, known for its parks and cultural scene. Each campus offers its own student services and accommodation options. Queensland has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs vary: Toowoomba's rent is typically A$150–250 per week for shared housing, while Ipswich and Springfield are slightly higher. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Studying in regional areas like Toowoomba can offer a more affordable lifestyle and a close-knit student community.
International students enrolling in the Student Exchange Program will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to maintain full-time enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, have sufficient financial capacity, and meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. You must also hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. As of 2026, the visa application charge is A$1,600. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours on scheduled breaks. Graduate visa pathways are not available for Non AQF Award courses, as they do not lead to a qualification. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent.
A Student Exchange Program is a fantastic opportunity to experience Australian education and culture, but there are key considerations. First, ensure your home institution has a partnership with USQ; otherwise, you may not be eligible. Second, consider credit transfer—confirm that your home university will recognise the subjects you complete at USQ. Third, think about your academic goals: exchange programs are ideal for broadening perspectives but may not lead to a degree. Fourth, evaluate the cost of living in Queensland: weekly expenses for rent, food, and transport can range from A$400 to A$700 depending on location. Toowoomba is generally more affordable than Brisbane's suburbs. Also, factor in health cover and travel costs. Finally, cultural adaptation—Australian universities are supportive of international students, and USQ offers orientation programs. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, you have alternatives, but USQ's regional campuses provide a unique, community-focused experience.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Student Exchange Program at University of Southern Queensland: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to compare courses and confirm USQ (CRICOS 00244B) offers the Student Exchange Program (095995K). Check entry requirements and ensure you meet English proficiency and academic standards. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application through USQ's exchange program portal. You will need your home university's nomination, academic transcripts, English test scores, and a study plan. Deadlines vary; typical semesters start in February and July. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): After acceptance, USQ will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, financial documents, and a GTE statement. For assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Ready to start your Australian exchange journey? Use HeadStart Academy's free directory to explore more CRICOS-registered courses and providers. Always verify current fees and entry requirements directly with University of Southern Queensland.
Student Exchange Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Southern Queensland. 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.