International Exchange One Sem (CRICOS course code 117204E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for international students who wish to participate in a semester-long exchange program in Australia. CDU is a government-funded university with CRICOS registration 00300K, ensuring all programs meet rigorous Australian standards. The indicative tuition fee is A$0, making it an attractive option for exchange students, though you must factor in Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application fees. With multiple campuses in Casuarina, Darwin City, and Sydney, students can choose a location that suits their lifestyle. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource to help you navigate your study options in Australia. Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA agent.
International Exchange One Sem (CRICOS 117204E) is a Non AQF Award offered by Charles Darwin University (CDU), a government-funded institution with CRICOS code 00300K. The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) and is designed for international students participating in an exchange program. Students can study at CDU's campuses in Casuarina, Darwin City, or Sydney. The indicative tuition fee is A$0, though additional costs for OSHC, living expenses, and visa application apply. This course does not include a work component. CDU is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy presents this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). International exchange students benefit from CDU's diverse student community and modern facilities. The course allows students to select from a range of subjects across disciplines, enriching their academic and cultural experience. Australia offers a welcoming environment for international students, with robust support services.
This course is classified under Mixed Field Programmes (field 12), specifically Other Mixed Field Programmes (1299). As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to a formal Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) qualification but provides a structured learning experience tailored to exchange students. Students typically study a combination of subjects chosen from CDU's undergraduate offerings, allowing them to gain credits toward their home degree. Learning outcomes focus on developing cross-disciplinary knowledge, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. The exact syllabus depends on the student's study plan and home institution requirements. CDU's academics deliver instruction in English, and students have access to university resources such as libraries and learning support. This field of education is designed to offer flexibility and breadth, ideal for students seeking a diverse academic experience.
The International Exchange One Sem course has a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This typically corresponds to one semester of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual award, and it is not a foundation studies program. Students are expected to attend classes on campus, though some components may be offered online depending on CDU's delivery mode. The course is structured to accommodate the academic calendar, with intake periods usually aligned to Semester 1 and Semester 2. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for International Exchange One Sem is A$0, as listed on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees are also A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$0. However, these fees are indicative only and may be subject to change by Charles Darwin University. Important additional costs not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students; living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport; and the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). For current fee information, always refer to CDU's official website. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting at least AUD 21,041 per year for living costs as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines. ESOS Act protections apply, so any fees paid are safeguarded.
Entry requirements for International Exchange One Sem at CDU vary. Generally, students must be enrolled in a degree program at a partner institution and nominated for exchange by their home university. English language proficiency is typically required, with IELTS scores ranging from 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level and subjects chosen. Prior academic qualifications at high school level are usually expected. Because this is a Non AQF Award, formal prerequisites may be determined by CDU in consultation with the partner institution. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements — refer to CDU's website for details. HeadStart Academy provides this as general guidance; for specific entry criteria, contact CDU directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. However, the course itself does not require or guarantee work placements. Students may seek casual employment independently, subject to visa conditions.
International Exchange One Sem is delivered at four CDU campuses: Casuarina Campus in CASUARINA, NT; Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City, NT; Level 10, 815 George Street, Sydney, NSW; and Waterfront Campus in DARWIN CITY, NT. Casuarina is a suburban area of Darwin, offering a relaxed lifestyle with proximity to natural attractions. Darwin City is the capital of the Northern Territory, known for its multicultural community and tropical climate. Sydney's campus is located in the CBD, giving students access to Australia's largest city. Each location provides full student support services. The Northern Territory has a smaller international student population compared to Sydney, offering a more intimate study experience. Sydney, on the other hand, is a global hub with over 150,000 international students and extensive public transport.
International students enrolling in International Exchange One Sem at CDU will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The visa application charge is currently AUD 710 (subject to change). You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and attend classes. For full details, refer to the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — consult MARA-registered agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: use HeadStart Academy to explore courses and filter by location and level. Confirm that CDU (CRICOS 00300K) offers this course. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution: contact CDU's exchange office or your home university's study abroad coordinator. Submit required documents including academic transcripts and English test results. Meet application deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): once CDU issues your CoE, lodge your visa application online, provide GTE statement, OSHC evidence, and financial documents. Allow processing time.
Both NT and Sydney offer unique experiences for international students. The Northern Territory has a small but welcoming international community, lower cost of living (e.g., rent around AUD 300-400 per week in Darwin), and a tropical climate. Sydney is a bustling metropolis with high living costs (rent AUD 600-800 per week), but offers endless cultural activities and job opportunities. Consider your preferences: NT for a close-knit environment and nature, Sydney for urban lifestyle and networking. CDU's campuses in both locations allow you to choose. Regardless of location, all students benefit from ESOS Act protections and support services provided by CDU.
Ready to apply? Start your journey for International Exchange One Sem at CDU.
International Exchange One Sem is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). 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.