Are you an international student aiming to study engineering in Australia but need to bridge academic or language gaps? The Master Qualifying Program - Engineering (CRICOS course code 102260J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) over 1 year. This program is designed to prepare you for postgraduate engineering studies at one of Australia's leading universities, ranked in the top 1% worldwide. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00123M), it meets strict Australian Government standards for international education. Whether you need to strengthen your English proficiency, build foundational engineering knowledge, or adapt to the Australian academic system, this pathway program offers a structured route to a Master of Engineering. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — always verify current details with the provider.
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Master Qualifying Program - Engineering (CRICOS course code 102260J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) over 1 year. This course falls under the broad field of Engineering and Related Technologies (03) and is specifically classified as 'Other Engineering and Related Technologies' (0399). It is intended for international students who wish to pursue postgraduate engineering studies but do not yet meet direct entry requirements. The program provides a pathway to the university's Master of Engineering degrees, covering essential academic skills, discipline-specific knowledge, and English language development. The University of Adelaide is a public, government-funded institution with a strong reputation in engineering research and teaching. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00123M), it is authorised to enrol overseas students and is subject to the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights and tuition protection.
While specific curriculum details should be confirmed with the provider, students in this field of education typically cover foundational engineering principles, mathematics, physics, and communication skills. The program is designed to bring students' academic background up to a level suitable for postgraduate study in engineering. You may also develop research skills, critical thinking, and an understanding of Australian engineering standards. Graduates are generally prepared to articulate into a Master of Engineering (including specialisations such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering). The Non AQF Award level means it does not confer a degree or diploma but serves as a bridging qualification. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting The University of Adelaide for a detailed syllabus and learning outcomes.
The course duration on the CRICOS register is 1 year (52 weeks). Study is full-time, with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification — no dual award or combined degree. The program is campus-based at the University of Adelaide's North Terrace campus. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy your student visa conditions. The duration is indicative; some students may complete faster or slower depending on prior learning and academic progress. Always check the provider's website for the latest course structure and delivery modes.
Indicative fees from the CRICOS register are: tuition A$52,300, non-tuition fees A$0, estimated total A$52,300. These fees cover the full program duration. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge are NOT included. Living costs in Adelaide are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne — typical weekly rent for a student is around A$200–350, and groceries about A$80–150. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Always confirm current fees with The University of Adelaide before applying. HeadStart Academy displays fees as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and does not guarantee amounts.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this program, you may need IELTS 6.0 overall (with no band below 5.5) or equivalent. Academic entry generally requires completion of a recognised bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a related field, but specific prerequisite may be lower as this is a qualifying program. If you don't meet the English requirement, the university may offer ELICOS or pathway options. Foundation studies are not part of this course. Consult the provider directly for precise entry criteria, as they can change. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not assess applications.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs while studying.
The course is delivered at The University of Adelaide, North Terrace — AUSTRALIA, SA. The North Terrace campus is the main campus of the University of Adelaide, located in the Adelaide city centre. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, with a population of over 1.3 million. The city has a vibrant student community, with over 30 CRICOS-registered providers. Public transport is accessible via buses, trams, and trains, with student concession fares available. Living costs are relatively affordable, with typical student rent A$200–350 per week. The city is known for its festivals, food, and wine regions. For more on studying in South Australia, visit our /states/sa page.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied — you need to demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity requirements apply; you must show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; for visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master Qualifying Program - Engineering at The University of Adelaide:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. The University of Adelaide (CRICOS 00123M) is a government university with a strong engineering focus. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), and application deadlines. Submit your application online through the university's admissions portal. You may need to provide academic transcripts, personal statement, and passport copy. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Then apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement.
Adelaide offers a high quality of life with lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a strong engineering industry, with opportunities in defence, mining, and renewable energy. The University of Adelaide's North Terrace campus is close to public transport, shops, and cultural venues. However, consider the climate (Mediterranean, hot summers) and that the job market is smaller than in larger capitals. For a pathway program like this, Adelaide provides a focused academic environment. Weigh your preferences for city size, career opportunities, and lifestyle before choosing.
Ready to start your engineering journey? Contact The University of Adelaide for application details.
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Master Qualifying Program - Engineering is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Adelaide (Adelaide). 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.