Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) (CRICOS course code 117241M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 21 weeks. This program is designed for international students who need to strengthen their academic and English language skills before entering a master's degree. It falls under the field of General Education Programmes (Literacy and Numeracy), providing foundational competencies essential for postgraduate success. Macquarie University, a CRICOS-registered institution (00002J) located in North Ryde, NSW, offers this course at its Wallumattagal Campus. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, ensuring a wide range of study options. This page provides comprehensive information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa conditions to help you make an informed decision.
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Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) (CRICOS course code 117241M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 21 weeks. This program is classified under the field of education 12 - Mixed Field Programmes, specifically 1201 - General Education Programmes, 120103 - Literacy and Numeracy Programmes. It serves as a pathway for international students aiming to progress into a master's degree at Macquarie University or other Australian institutions. The course focuses on developing academic literacy, numeracy, and study skills necessary for postgraduate coursework. As a CRICOS-registered course (117241M), it is approved by the Australian Government for enrolment of overseas students. Macquarie University (CRICOS 00002J) is a public university renowned for its research and teaching excellence. The program does not include a mandatory work component, and it is delivered in English at the Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde, New South Wales. Students who complete this program may meet the entry requirements for selected master's programs, subject to achieving the required grades and meeting specific program prerequisites. HeadStart Academy sources all course data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and reliability.
The Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) is a Non AQF Award that provides foundational skills in literacy and numeracy, tailored to the needs of future postgraduate students. While specific syllabi are determined by Macquarie University, graduates of such programs typically develop advanced reading comprehension, academic writing, data interpretation, and critical thinking skills. The field of General Education Programmes (1201) encompasses broad-based learning that prepares students for more specialised higher education. Literacy components often include essay writing, research methods, and oral presentations, while numeracy components cover statistical reasoning, quantitative analysis, and problem-solving. These skills are essential for success in a master's degree, particularly in business, arts, or social sciences. The program also emphasises English language proficiency, helping students meet the communication demands of Australian university study. Because this is a pathway program, it is designed to bridge the gap between existing qualifications and the academic standards expected at the postgraduate level. Students are encouraged to contact Macquarie University for the full syllabus and learning outcomes.
According to the CRICOS register, the Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) has a duration of 21 weeks. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and is delivered full-time in English. The program does not involve a work component. Students study on campus at Macquarie University's Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde, New South Wales. The 21-week timeframe is designed to provide intensive preparation for postgraduate study. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The language of instruction is English, and students are expected to have sufficient English proficiency to engage with the curriculum. Macquarie University may offer the program in different sessions (e.g., Session 1 and Session 2); prospective students should check the provider's website for current start dates and intakes.
The indicative tuition fee for Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) is A$24,000, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$24,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Macquarie University. Boarding costs are not included. Please note that additional expenses such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge are not included in this estimate. For current fees and any potential fee changes, always refer to the official Macquarie University website: www.mq.edu.au. HeadStart Academy provides indicative fee information as a guide only, and fees are subject to change without notice. international students should budget approximately A$20,000–A$30,000 per year for living costs in Sydney, including rent ($300–$500 per week), groceries ($80–$120 per week), and public transport ($40–$60 per week).
English language requirements vary by provider for this course level. International students typically need an IELTS overall score between 5.5 and 7.0, depending on the course level and institution. For Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) at Macquarie University, prospective students should have prior qualifications equivalent to an Australian bachelor's degree or diploma. Some applicants with a three-year degree from certain countries may be eligible. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements; contact Macquarie University for details. Additionally, students must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria and financial capacity to support their studies and stay in Australia. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the specific entry requirements on the Macquarie University website before applying. All CRICOS-registered courses have admission standards set by the provider, and meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) does not include a mandatory work component. The CRICOS register indicates no work component for this course. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is not part of the course curriculum but can provide valuable experience and income. Students should refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current work limitations and conditions.
Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, New South Wales. The campus is located in the Macquarie Park area, a major hub for education and technology in Sydney's north. Macquarie University is well connected by public transport, including the Macquarie University railway station on the Metro line and bus services. North Ryde offers a mix of student accommodation, shopping centres, and green spaces. Sydney, as a city, has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The typical living cost for a single student in Sydney is approximately A$1,200–A$1,500 per month excluding tuition. The campus is close to Macquarie Shopping Centre and various dining options. Prospective students should consider the suburban setting, which balances accessibility with a quieter study environment compared to the Sydney CBD.
International students enrolling in Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) require a Student visa (Subclass 500). To be eligible, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie University, meet the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and living costs. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain your enrolment and satisfactory course progress. The Health insurance (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). For detailed information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only and does not offer migration advice.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a top destination for international students. With over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, including world-renowned universities and colleges, Sydney offers diverse study options. Macquarie University's North Ryde campus is located in the Macquarie Park innovation district, home to many global companies. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is $250–$400, groceries $70–$100, and a public transport weekly pass $40–$60. The city has an extensive public transport network, including trains, buses, metro, and ferries. Students can enjoy beaches, cultural festivals, and a vibrant food scene. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring quality education and student rights. When choosing a program, consider factors like proximity to your accommodation, public transport access, and the specific support services available for international students. Sydney's warm climate and multicultural environment make it a welcoming place for migrants and students.
Follow these three steps to apply for Masters Qualifying Program (Standard) at Macquarie University: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers - use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare providers like Macquarie University to find the best fit. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution - check entry requirements, prepare English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and submit your application before the deadline. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) - once Macquarie University issues your CoE, use it to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and proof of financial capacity. For personalised guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
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Masters Qualifying Program (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.