International Student Exchange Program (CRICOS course code 115890E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Adelaide University over 26 weeks (~6 months). This CRICOS-registered program is designed for international students seeking a short-term study experience in Australia through an exchange arrangement. As part of the Mixed Field Programmes category, this course offers a flexible curriculum that allows students from various academic backgrounds to engage in cross-cultural learning while studying at one of Australia's prestigious Group of Eight universities. Adelaide University is a government-owned institution with CRICOS provider code 04249J, ensuring compliance with Australian education quality standards. With a zero tuition fee structure (indicative), the program emphasizes academic collaboration rather than commercial enrollment. Students can choose from multiple campuses across South Australia, including Adelaide City, Magill, Mawson Lakes, Mount Gambier, Roseworthy, and Waite. This page provides detailed information about the course structure, entry requirements, student visa conditions, and application process to help you make an informed decision.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
| Metric | Value |
|---|
The International Student Exchange Program falls under the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes, specifically 'Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.' (field of education code 129999). This classification indicates that the program combines elements from multiple disciplines rather than specializing in a single field. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification, but it provides a valuable international academic experience. Students typically study a range of subjects relevant to their home degree, with an emphasis on cross-cultural understanding and academic enrichment. The exact curriculum depends on the exchange agreement between Adelaide University and the student's home institution. Graduates gain global perspectives, improved English language proficiency, and a stronger academic network. This program is ideal for students who want to explore Australian higher education without committing to a full degree.
The program runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as indicated on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English, the language of tuition at Adelaide University. This is a single qualification course with no dual qualification. There is no work component integrated into the program. Students are expected to attend classes on a full-time basis to maintain their student visa conditions. The 26-week duration is considered a short-term program, allowing students to experience study at an Australian university during a single semester.
According to the CRICOS register as at April 2026, the indicative fees for the International Student Exchange Program are: tuition fee A$0, non-tuition fee A$0, and total estimated cost A$0. This means that under standard exchange agreements, students pay tuition to their home institution, not to Adelaide University. However, please note that these fees are indicative only and set by Adelaide University. You must confirm the exact fee arrangement with both your home institution and Adelaide University before applying. Additional costs not included in the CRICOS fees are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current fee information, always check the provider's website.
Entry requirements for the International Student Exchange Program are set by Adelaide University and may vary by home institution agreement. Generally, students must be enrolled in a degree program at their home university and be nominated for exchange. English language requirements typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level and field. For this Non AQF Award, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 is common. Academic prerequisites include satisfactory academic standing in your current program. There are no foundation or pathway options specific to this course, as it is designed for students already pursuing a degree elsewhere. Always refer to the provider's official entry requirements before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are, however, eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, provided they maintain their visa conditions. Work is not part of the curriculum but can supplement your study experience.
International Student Exchange Program is delivered at six campuses of Adelaide University across South Australia: Adelaide City Campus in Adelaide's central business district, Magill Campus in the eastern suburb of Magill, Mawson Lakes Campus in the northern suburb of Mawson Lakes, Mount Gambier Campus in the regional city of Mount Gambier, Roseworthy Campus in the rural area of Wasleys, and Waite Campus in the suburb of Urrbrae. Each campus offers unique facilities and a distinct study environment. Adelaide itself is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and a thriving international student community. Public transport connects all campuses to the city. Living costs in Adelaide are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly expenses around A$350-A$500 for rent, A$80-A$120 for groceries, and A$30-A$50 for public transport.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights as mentioned. To obtain a student visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and hold a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs sets visa conditions; always check current requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice — consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for the International Student Exchange Program at Adelaide University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level and field to find programs that match your goals. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (Adelaide University code 04249J). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact your home university's exchange office to be nominated for Adelaide University. Submit required documents, including academic transcripts and English test scores (e.g., IELTS), by the application deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Adelaide University will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Consider seeking assistance from a registered migration agent for visa matters.
Ready to experience Australian education? Start your exchange journey today by contacting your home institution's exchange office and exploring Adelaide University's programs. For more information on student visas, visit our Student Visa (Subclass 500) guide.
International Student Exchange Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at Adelaide University. 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.