Standard Foundation Program (CRICOS course code 114315M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by UNSW Global Pty Limited over 36 weeks (~8 months). This program is designed for international students who have completed their secondary education overseas and need a foundation year to qualify for undergraduate entry at UNSW Sydney. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 01020K), it meets the Australian Government's standards for international education. The program is delivered at UNSW College in Kensington, NSW, and focuses on general education subjects to prepare students for university-level study. With no mandatory work component, students can focus on their academic preparation. Tuition is A$42,700 (indicative), plus non-tuition fees of A$500, totaling approximately A$43,200. Living costs, OSHC, and visa fees are additional. This page provides detailed information about the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and student visa guidance to help you make an informed decision.
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Standard Foundation Program (CRICOS course code 114315M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by UNSW Global Pty Limited over 36 weeks (~8 months). This course falls under the field of education 120199 General Education Programmes, n.e.c., which covers broad preparatory studies for university entry. UNSW Global Pty Limited (CRICOS 01020K) is a private provider offering pathway programs to UNSW Sydney. The program is listed on the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international students. With no dual qualification, this single qualification program is ideal for students who need foundational academic skills. The language of instruction is English, and the course includes no work component. UNSW Global's website (www.unswcollege.edu.au) provides the most up-to-date information on course content and application procedures.
The Standard Foundation Program is classified under Mixed Field Programmes (broad field 12) and General Education Programmes (1201), specifically 120199 General Education Programmes, n.e.c. This means the curriculum covers a range of general academic subjects designed to build foundational knowledge in areas such as English, mathematics, and critical thinking. Students develop skills in academic writing, research, and independent study, preparing them for the demands of undergraduate degrees. While the exact subjects vary by intake, the program aims to bridge the gap between secondary education and university entry. Graduates typically gain the competence to pursue further studies in fields like business, engineering, or arts at UNSW Sydney. The program is not a VET course (N/A VET code) and does not lead to a specific trade or vocational qualification.
The course duration is 36 weeks (~8 months) as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification program (no dual qualification). Students attend full-time at the UNSW College campus in Kensington. The program is structured to be completed within one academic year, typically starting in February or September. Class schedules may include lectures, tutorials, and workshops. As a foundation program, it is not available part-time for international students due to student visa requirements. The CRICOS register lists the duration as 36 weeks, and this is the standard full-time load.
Tuition fees for Standard Foundation Program are A$42,700 (indicative). Non-tuition fees are A$500, bringing the estimated total to A$43,200. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students must budget for OSHC (around A$500–A$700 per year), living expenses (approximately A$24,000–A$30,000 per year for a single student in Sydney), and the Subclass 500 visa application fee (A$1,600 as of 2026). Always check UNSW Global's official website for the most current fee information before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For Standard Foundation Program, students usually need an IELTS score of 5.5 (with no band below 5.0) or equivalent. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Year 11 or equivalent from the home country. Some students may need to complete additional mathematics or science prerequisites. This program includes foundation studies, so it is designed for students who do not yet meet direct undergraduate entry requirements. Entry requirements are determined by UNSW Global and may change – always verify with the provider. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, the foundation program itself is purely academic and does not require practical work experience. Students are advised to focus on their studies, as successful completion is required for progression to undergraduate programs.
The course is delivered at UNSW College (Kensington) in KENSINGTON, NSW. Kensington is an inner-southern suburb of Sydney, approximately 6 km from the city center. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and light rail, and is close to the University of New South Wales (UNSW) main campus. Sydney, as Australia's largest city, offers a vibrant student life with over 100,000 international students. The cost of living in Sydney is higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$300–A$500, groceries A$150, and public transport A$50–A$70. Numerous CRICOS-registered providers operate in NSW – over 400 providers offer thousands of courses. The location provides access to libraries, study spaces, and cultural amenities.
International students enrolling in Standard Foundation Program will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires confirmation of enrolment (CoE) in a CRICOS-registered course, evidence of genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled holidays. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and not working more than allowed. For visa applications, consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Sydney offers a dynamic multicultural environment with world-class education, but it comes with a higher cost of living. The city has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses, making it a hub for international students. Kensington is close to the CBD and beaches, with excellent public transport. However, students should budget carefully – weekly living expenses range from A$500 to A$800. The warm climate and diverse population make Sydney attractive, but competition for housing can be intense. Consider your budget, study preferences, and career goals when choosing a location. UNSW Global's Kensington campus is part of a major university precinct with access to libraries, sports facilities, and student support services.
Applying for Standard Foundation Program at UNSW Global Pty Limited involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Verify the provider's CRICOS registration (01020K) and course details. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UNSW Global's website (www.unswcollege.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language test options, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (transcripts, English test scores, passport). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UNSW Global will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
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Standard Foundation Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at UNSW Global Pty Limited. 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.