Study Abroad CASA (CRICOS course code 112852B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 1 year. This programme is designed for international students seeking a short-term academic experience in Australia, and is classified under the Mixed Field Programmes category (129999 - Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.). As a CRICOS-registered course at Australia's leading university, it offers a unique opportunity to study in Melbourne while building cross-cultural skills. The University of Melbourne (CRICOS 00116K) is a government-funded institution renowned for its research and teaching excellence. This page provides a detailed overview of the course structure, indicative fees, entry requirements, and the steps to apply. Whether you're planning a semester abroad or exploring study options down under, HeadStart Academy's CRICOS-sourced data helps you make an informed decision. All information on this page is drawn from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
This course falls under the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes (Code 12), specifically within Other Mixed Field Programmes (1299) and Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. (129999). As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification, but rather provides a structured learning experience that may include subjects from multiple disciplines. Students typically engage in a combination of coursework designed to develop general knowledge, communication skills, and an understanding of Australian society and culture. While the exact curriculum is set by The University of Melbourne, graduates of similar programmes often gain enhanced cross-cultural competency, academic English proficiency, and a foundation for further study. The programme is ideal for students who want to sample Australian university life without committing to a full degree, and may count towards credit transfer at home institutions.
According to the CRICOS register, the duration of Study Abroad CASA is 1 year (52 weeks). The course is taught in English and is offered as a single qualification (no dual award). Study mode is typically full-time on-campus, though students should confirm delivery mode with the provider. The University of Melbourne delivers this course at its Parkville campus, providing access to world-class facilities, libraries, and student support services. As a standard full-time load, students can expect to attend lectures, tutorials, and possibly workshops. The fixed 52-week duration makes it manageable for students on a standard Student visa (Subclass 500) and aligns with academic year calendars.
The indicative tuition fee for Study Abroad CASA is A$26,000 per year, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. The estimated total cost is therefore A$26,000. However, this fee does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for additional costs: OSHC typically ranges from A$500 to A$700 per year for single cover, living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$30,000 per year (including rent, food, and transport), and the student visa application fee is currently A$1,600 (as of 2026). Always check the latest fees directly on The University of Melbourne's website (unimelb.edu.au) as fees are subject to change.
Entry requirements for Study Abroad CASA are set by The University of Melbourne. Generally, for Non AQF Award courses at this level, applicants should have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 12. English language proficiency is typically required, with IELTS scores ranging from 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level – for this programme, an IELTS 6.0 or equivalent is common. Some students may need to complete foundation or pathway programmes, but this course itself does not include foundation studies. Applicants should satisfy the university's academic entry criteria and provide evidence of English proficiency. For precise requirements, contact The University of Melbourne directly or consult a registered education agent.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may engage in part-time work in Australia subject to visa conditions: currently, 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work must not interfere with study commitments. The absence of a work component means students can focus entirely on their studies, but the option to work part-time provides valuable income and experience.
Study Abroad CASA is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant student population of over 400,000 international students from 185 countries. The city offers extensive public transport (trams, trains, buses) connecting Parkville to the city centre and suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$250–A$400, groceries about A$80–A$150, and a myki transport pass around A$45 per week. Melbourne consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities, providing a safe and culturally rich environment for study.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, work part-time (48 hours per fortnight during term), and accompany family members. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC for yourself and dependents, and English language proficiency (if required). OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. The Department of Home Affairs assesses applications on a case-by-case basis. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; for visa lodgement, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. All international students in Australia are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring education quality and consumer rights.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm Study Abroad CASA meets your academic and career goals. 2) Apply directly to The University of Melbourne – check entry requirements, prepare your English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and submit your application by the deadline. You may need to provide transcripts, a personal statement, and proof of English proficiency. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, you'll get a CoE from the university, which you use to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence and financial documents. Allow 4–6 weeks for visa processing.
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Study Abroad CASA 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.