Master of Combined Studies in Finance / International Business (CRICOS 099552E) at Macquarie University (Macquarie)

Course overview

Master of Combined Studies in Finance / International Business (CRICOS course code 099552E) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 2 years 6 months (~130 weeks). This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring that as an international student, you are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. Macquarie University is one of 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering a wide range of courses across all study levels. The course is delivered at the Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde in New South Wales, a state that hosts over 300 CRICOS-registered providers and more than 6,000 courses. Sydney, where the campus is located, is Australia's largest city with a student population exceeding 200,000 international students, providing a vibrant multicultural environment. The indicative tuition fee is A$121,100, with non-tuition fees of A$933, bringing the estimated total to A$122,033. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change — always confirm directly with Macquarie University. This course does not include a mandatory work component, but student visa holders have work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.

What you'll study

As a Combined Studies program in Finance and International Business, you will explore the intersection of financial theory, investment analysis, and global business strategy. The field of education is 12 - Mixed Field Programmes, specifically 129999 - Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c., which indicates a customised integration of disciplines rather than a single specialised field. At the Masters Degree (Coursework) level (AQF Level 9), you can expect to develop advanced knowledge and skills in both finance and international business, including areas such as corporate finance, risk management, international marketing, cross-cultural management, and global supply chains. Graduates typically learn to synthesise complex information, make data-driven decisions, and apply strategic thinking to international business challenges. The course is designed to prepare you for leadership roles in multinational corporations, financial institutions, consulting firms, or government agencies. Keep in mind that this is a general description — for specific subjects and learning outcomes, you should refer to the official course information on Macquarie University's website (www.mq.edu.au). As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the provider must meet rigorous quality standards set by the Australian Government.

Duration and study mode

The Master of Combined Studies in Finance / International Business is a full-time program with a duration of 2 years 6 months (130 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course leads to a single qualification (not a dual award). There is no work component included in this course, meaning you will not be required to undertake a mandatory internship or practicum. However, as a student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to your visa conditions. Macquarie University offers the course on campus, with no online or distance learning options indicated. You will be expected to attend classes at the Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde, Sydney. The campus is well-served by public transport, including Macquarie University Station on the Sydney Metro, making it accessible from various parts of Sydney. If you are planning your study timeline, note that the 130-week duration includes study periods and breaks.

Fees (indicative — set by Macquarie University (Macquarie))

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$121,100, with additional non-tuition fees of A$933, resulting in an estimated total cost of A$122,033. These figures are sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that this estimate does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students in Australia must maintain OSHC for the duration of their visa. Living costs in Sydney, where the campus is located, are among the highest in Australia. As a guide, you should budget approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, A$150–200 for groceries, and A$40–60 for public transport. Always check the most current fees and cost estimates directly with Macquarie University at www.mq.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — we do not charge referral fees, and our data is based on public CRICOS records.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

International students applying for this master's degree are typically expected to have completed a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field (such as finance, business, economics, or commerce). Macquarie University may consider relevant work experience as part of your application. The minimum English language requirement is an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent), with no band below 6.0. This is a general guideline; specific requirements may vary depending on your academic background and country of origin. Macquarie University also offers pathway options such as graduate certificates or diplomas for students who do not meet the direct entry criteria. However, foundation studies are not listed for this course. For precise entry requirements, including any prerequisites or portfolio requirements, consult Macquarie University's official website or contact their admissions office. Remember, HeadStart Academy does not provide migration or academic advice — we recommend consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for visa matters and the university for admission details.

Work component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. While some master's programs in Australia incorporate internships or industry placements, the Master of Combined Studies in Finance / International Business has no such requirement. That said, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work can be in any sector and is a great way to gain local experience and offset living costs. The Macquarie University campus is situated in North Ryde, a major business district with many corporate offices, offering potential part-time opportunities. Keep in mind that work rights are subject to visa conditions and must not interfere with your studies. Always check current work rights on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Delivery locations

This course is delivered at Macquarie University's Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, New South Wales. The campus is located approximately 15 kilometres northwest of Sydney's central business district and is part of the Macquarie Park innovation district, which is home to numerous multinational companies. The campus is easily accessible via Macquarie University Station on the Sydney Metro, as well as several bus routes. With over 45,000 students, including a large international cohort, the campus offers a vibrant, inclusive environment. Sydney itself has a population of over 5 million, and the state of New South Wales has more than 300 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you plenty of options if you are exploring multiple study destinations. Living costs in Sydney are higher than other Australian cities, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$500–700. The city's public transport system, including trains, buses, and ferries, makes commuting feasible from many suburbs.

Student visa (Subclass 500)

To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (2 years 6 months) plus additional time for travel. Key conditions include: maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay, satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. As mentioned, work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled breaks. You may also be eligible to bring family members, but they must also meet visa requirements. The visa application charge is around A$650 (subject to change). It is essential to apply well in advance and ensure you have your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie University. For detailed, up-to-date information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.

How to apply

Applying for this course involves three clear steps:

1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's free tool to filter by course level (Masters Degree), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and location (New South Wales). Confirm that Macquarie University (CRICOS 00002J) is registered for this course (CRICOS 099552E). All listed providers are verified against the official CRICOS register.

2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application to Macquarie University via their online portal or through an authorised education agent. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall or equivalent), and any other required documents. Pay attention to application deadlines – Macquarie typically has February and July intakes.

3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, Macquarie University will issue your CoE. With this, you can apply for the student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide biometrics, health checks, and evidence of financial capacity. After visa grant, you can plan your travel and start your academic journey.

Remember, HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we do not charge fees or receive commissions. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the university.

Start your journey to study in Australia with HeadStart Academy — compare CRICOS-registered courses and find your perfect program today.

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