Career Start (Study Abroad) (CRICOS course code 096807M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 35 weeks (~8 months). This program is designed for international students seeking a short-term study experience in Australia, combining foundational business and management knowledge with cultural immersion. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 01241G), it meets strict Australian Government quality standards, ensuring you receive a recognised educational experience. Whether you're exploring study options or planning a gap year, this course offers a structured pathway into Australia's world-class education system. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Career Start (Study Abroad) (CRICOS course code 096807M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 35 weeks (~8 months). This course sits within the field of Management and Commerce (broad field 08, narrow field 0803, detailed 080399 – Business and Management, n.e.c.), providing a general introduction to business concepts, communication skills, and Australian workplace culture. It is not a dual qualification nor a foundation program, and it carries no VET national code. The course is taught entirely in English and does not include a mandatory work component. As a CRICOS-registered program, it is subject to the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, giving you legal protections including tuition fee refunds in certain circumstances. Southern Cross University, a government-funded public university, has been welcoming international students for decades, with campuses in vibrant coastal locations.
While specific curriculum details are set by Southern Cross University (SCU), the field of Business and Management (n.e.c.) typically covers foundational topics such as organisational behaviour, marketing principles, financial literacy, and cross-cultural communication. At the Non AQF Award level, courses are often designed to be introductory or preparatory, equipping students with practical skills and knowledge for further study or workplace readiness. Graduates can expect to develop critical thinking, teamwork, and basic business acumen. The program may also include orientation to Australian academic conventions and student support services. For exact unit outlines and learning outcomes, please refer to the SCU website or course handbook.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 35 weeks (~8 months). This is a single qualification (no dual award) taught in English. Study mode is typically full-time on campus, but Southern Cross University may offer flexibility – check with the provider for delivery options (e.g., face-to-face, blended). As an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you must maintain full-time enrolment. The course code (096807M) is specific to this program and should be quoted in all official communications.
According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), indicative fees for Career Start (Study Abroad) at Southern Cross University (SCU) are as follows: tuition fee A$26,000, non-tuition fee A$835, estimated total A$26,835. Please note that these figures are indicative only and subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – mandatory for student visa holders – living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. For current fee schedules and payment policies, visit the Southern Cross University website at www.scu.edu.au. Always confirm fees directly with the provider before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Non AQF Award, SCU may require IELTS 5.5 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo). You should also have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent international secondary schooling. Some students may be admitted via foundation or pathway programs – check with SCU for alternative entry options. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; the university assesses each application holistically. For precise entry criteria, consult the SCU website or contact their admissions office.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (subject to visa conditions). This can help offset living costs and gain Australian work experience. Remember that work rights are a visa condition, not a course requirement.
Career Start (Study Abroad) is delivered at two Southern Cross University campuses: (1) Gold Coast Airport Development Park – Bilinga, BILINGA, QLD; (2) Lismore, EAST LISMORE, NSW. Bilinga is a coastal suburb of the Gold Coast, a major tourist and student hub with over 60 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Lismore is a regional city in northern NSW, known for its vibrant arts scene and lower cost of living. Both campuses are accessible by public transport. The Gold Coast has a large international student population, while Lismore offers a quieter, community-focused experience. Living costs vary: on the Gold Coast, weekly rent may range from A$200–$400 for shared accommodation; in Lismore, A$150–$300. For budgeting, allocate approximately A$500–$700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport (indicative only).
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: (1) Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Southern Cross University; (2) Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria – demonstrate you intend to study temporarily; (3) Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full duration; (4) sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. Post-study work rights are generally not available for Non AQF Awards – check the Department of Home Affairs for eligibility. Always consult the official Department of Home Affairs website (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Career Start (Study Abroad) at Southern Cross University (SCU):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like 096807M. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Business and Management), and location (Gold Coast or Lismore). All listed providers are CRICOS-registered.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit SCU's website (www.scu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Submit your application with supporting documents (transcripts, English test results, passport copy). Pay the application fee if required.
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, SCU will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for GTE assessment, arrange OSHC, and demonstrate financial capacity. Visa processing times vary – apply early.
Both locations offer unique benefits. The Gold Coast (Bilinga campus) is Australia's sixth-largest city, with over 300 sunny days a year, famous beaches, and a bustling student community. It has more than 60 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you access to a diverse student network and many part-time job opportunities in tourism and retail. Lismore, in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, offers a slower pace, lower cost of living, and close-knit community. It is surrounded by national parks and known for its creative industries. Consider your lifestyle preferences: if you thrive in a fast-paced urban environment, choose the Gold Coast; if you prefer affordability and nature, Lismore may be ideal. Public transport is available in both cities, though owning a bicycle or car can be helpful.
Non AQF Awards like Career Start (Study Abroad) are not formally accredited under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), but they are CRICOS-registered and delivered by quality providers. They are ideal for short-term study, cultural immersion, or as a stepping stone to higher qualifications. However, they may not lead to further study credits or post-study work rights. Ensure you understand your goals: if you plan to progress to a degree, check if SCU offers pathways or credit transfer. Also, confirm that the course meets any requirements for your home country's education system. Always verify the course's CRICOS registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au before enrolling.
Ready to start your Australian study adventure? Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses, then apply to Southern Cross University directly.
Career Start (Study Abroad) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.