Masters Qualifying Program in Business (Standard) (CRICOS course code 112942M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 42 weeks (~10 months). This program is designed for international students who hold a bachelor's degree but need additional academic preparation before progressing to a master's degree in business. It bridges the gap between your existing qualifications and the entry requirements for postgraduate business programs at Macquarie. The course is registered on CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students), ensuring it meets Australian standards for international student education. Sydney, home to Macquarie University's Wallumattagal Campus, offers a vibrant multicultural environment with over 200,000 international students. As a CRICOS-registered course, the Masters Qualifying Program provides a structured pathway to higher studies, with English language support and foundational business units.
Masters Qualifying Program in Business (Standard) (CRICOS course code 112942M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 42 weeks (~10 months). This course is tailored for international students who have completed a bachelor's degree but require additional academic preparation to meet the entry standards for a master's program in business. It is a pathway course, not an AQF qualification, designed to build foundational knowledge in business and academic skills. Macquarie University is a CRICOS-registered provider (00002J) and a government-funded institution, offering high-quality education in Sydney. The course is taught in English and does not include a work component. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring education quality and consumer rights.
This course falls under the field of education 08 - Management and Commerce, specifically 0899 - Other Management and Commerce, n.e.c. Students develop foundational skills in business concepts, academic writing, critical thinking, and research methods. The curriculum typically covers introductory business disciplines such as accounting, economics, marketing, and management, as well as academic English and study skills. While the exact syllabus is set by Macquarie University, graduates of this program gain the competencies needed to succeed in postgraduate business studies. This level of study is common among international students transitioning to Australian universities, with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering comparable pathway courses.
The course duration is 42 weeks (~10 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the program is a single qualification (no dual award). It is offered on a full-time basis only. Students should expect a structured timetable with classes held at Macquarie University's campus in North Ryde. The duration is designed to provide intensive preparation before progressing to a master's degree, typically starting in February or July. Always check with the provider for exact session dates.
Tuition fee: A$28,300 (indicative). Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total: A$28,300. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Macquarie University—they are subject to change without notice. Additionally, you must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. In Sydney, indicative weekly living costs include rent ($250–$400), groceries ($80–$120), and public transport ($40–$60). For the most current fees, visit the provider's website at www.mq.edu.au. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge booking or referral fees.
English language requirements vary by provider—typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Masters Qualifying Program, you may need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 (or equivalent). You should hold a bachelor's degree from a recognised institution. Specific prerequisites are determined by Macquarie University; contact them directly. If you do not meet the English requirements, pathway programs such as English language courses may be available. Always verify with the provider and consider consulting a registered migration agent for advice on your eligibility. All CRICOS-registered courses require proof of English proficiency.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students on a Subclass 500 visa are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights can change, so check the Department of Home Affairs website for current rules.
This course is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, NSW. The campus is located in Sydney's North Shore, approximately 12 km from the city centre. North Ryde has excellent public transport links, including the Macquarie University Metro station and frequent bus services. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 5 million residents, including more than 200,000 international students from 145 countries. Living costs are higher than the national average, but the city offers diverse employment and cultural opportunities. Over 50 CRICOS-registered providers operate in Sydney, offering thousands of courses across all levels.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to enrol in this CRICOS-registered course. You will need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, show sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a MARA-registered migration agent for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Masters Qualifying Program in Business (Standard) at Macquarie University (Macquarie): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Filter by course level, field, and city to find programs that match your goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application through Macquarie University's admissions portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once offered a place, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa. Remember to arrange OSHC and show sufficient funds. For assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Sydney is a dynamic city with a strong economy and a thriving international student community. Macquarie University's campus is situated in one of Sydney's key business and technology hubs, offering proximity to major companies, innovation districts, and natural attractions like national parks and beaches. The city has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you a wide choice of courses and institutions. However, Sydney's cost of living is among the highest in Australia. Consider your budget carefully: weekly rent for a shared apartment in North Ryde averages $250–$350, and a monthly transport pass costs around $130. If you prefer a lower cost of living, explore other regions like Adelaide or Brisbane. HeadStart Academy can help you compare providers and courses across Australia.
Start your pathway to a master's degree—check your eligibility for Masters Qualifying Program in Business (Standard) at Macquarie University.
Masters Qualifying Program in Business (Standard) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). 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.