Are you considering an honours degree in International Studies in Australia? The Bachelor of International Studies (Honours) (CRICOS course code 116269G) at The University of Sydney is a one-year Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) designed for international students seeking advanced study in society and culture. Delivered on the Camperdown campus in Sydney, this program combines rigorous academic training with critical analysis of global issues. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00026A), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, indicative fees, entry requirements, and student visa information to help you plan your study in Australia. Whether you are drawn to international relations, cultural studies, or global policy, this honours year offers a pathway to deeper expertise.
Bachelor of International Studies (Honours) (CRICOS course code 116269G) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of Sydney over 1 year. Classified under the field of education 099999 - Society and Culture, n.e.c., this AQF Level 8 program is designed for students who have completed a bachelor's degree in a related field and wish to pursue advanced study and research. The University of Sydney is a public research university and a CRICOS-registered provider (00026A), ensuring all courses meet strict quality standards under the ESOS Act. With a focus on international studies, students engage with contemporary global challenges, develop critical thinking, and hone research skills essential for careers in diplomacy, academia, or international organisations. The course is a single qualification (not a dual award) and has no mandatory work component, allowing full-time study commitment over 52 weeks.
The Bachelor of International Studies (Honours) falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (09). Specifically, it is classified under 'Other Society and Culture' (0999) and 'Society and Culture, n.e.c.' (099999), indicating an interdisciplinary approach. At the honours level, students typically undertake a supervised research thesis or project, complemented by advanced coursework seminars. Graduates develop skills in qualitative and quantitative research, critical analysis of international systems, cross-cultural communication, and policy evaluation. While the exact curriculum is set by The University of Sydney, honours degrees generally require students to demonstrate mastery of their chosen field, produce original research, and contribute new insights. This program is ideal for those aiming for doctoral studies or leadership roles in global affairs. For specific syllabus details, always refer to the provider's official course handbook.
According to the CRICOS register, the Bachelor of International Studies (Honours) has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The course is delivered full-time in English on campus at the University of Sydney's Camperdown location. It is a single qualification, meaning it leads to one award upon completion. The language of instruction is English, and all assessments are conducted in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component associated with this course. Students are expected to attend classes, seminars, and research supervision sessions as scheduled by the faculty. The standard academic year typically runs from late February to early November, with possible mid-year intakes – check with the provider for exact start dates.
The indicative tuition fee for this honours degree is A$52,500 per year, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees, which may include student services and amenities fees, are estimated at A$373 per year, bringing the estimated total to A$52,873. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change by the institution. The total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year (depending on provider and coverage). Living costs in Sydney – including accommodation, groceries, and transport – are additional, with average weekly expenses around A$500–A$700. The student visa application fee (currently A$710) is also separate. For the most current fees and any applicable scholarships, visit the University of Sydney's official website at sydney.edu.au.
General entry requirements for international students for this honours degree include a completed bachelor's degree in a relevant field (such as international studies, political science, or similar) with a strong academic record. English language proficiency is required, with an indicative IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall and no band below 5.5–6.0. Equivalent English language tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) may be accepted. The University of Sydney may also have specific prerequisite subjects or minimum grade point averages. If you do not meet the direct entry requirements, consider pathway or foundation programs offered by the University or its partner colleges. Always confirm precise entry criteria on the provider's website, as requirements can vary between intake periods. Meeting eligibility does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to complete internships, placements, or work experience as part of the honours program. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work part-time while studying: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Any employment is optional and must not interfere with full-time study commitments.
The Bachelor of International Studies (Honours) is delivered at The University of Sydney – CAMPERDOWN, NSW. Camperdown is a suburb near the Sydney CBD, offering excellent public transport access via buses and the nearby Redfern train station. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and more than 12 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses. The city has a vibrant international student community, with multicultural events, affordable food options, and diverse accommodation. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; typical weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$250 to A$400. The campus itself is historic, with state-of-the-art libraries, research centres, and student support services.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course and work part-time (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the University of Sydney. You also need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, and OSHC), and obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs assesses visa applications; processing times vary. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For personalised assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Choosing where to study is a big decision. Sydney offers world-class education, a dynamic job market, and a lifestyle that balances urban convenience with natural beauty. For an honours degree in International Studies, the city provides numerous opportunities: proximity to embassies, non-profits, and international organisations; a multicultural population that enriches learning; and strong transport links across the region. However, consider the higher cost of living compared to other Australian cities. Rent, groceries, and transport can quickly add up, so budgeting is essential. The University of Sydney's Camperdown campus is centrally located, giving you easy access to libraries, networking events, and cultural activities. If you value a cosmopolitan environment with strong academic reputation, Sydney is an excellent choice. For other locations, explore courses on HeadStart Academy by filtering by state and field.
Applying to study at The University of Sydney is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to browse courses and providers. Filter by course level (Bachelor Honours Degree) and field (Society and Culture) to find programs like this one. Always verify the provider's CRICOS registration status.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the University of Sydney's website (sydney.edu.au) to review entry requirements, submit your online application, and upload required documents (transcripts, English test results, personal statement). Pay attention to application deadlines – typically several months before the intake.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE statement. Check visa processing times and ensure you apply well in advance of your course start date.
Ready to take the next step? Apply to the University of Sydney today or explore more honours degrees on HeadStart Academy.
Bachelor of International Studies (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. 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.