Study Abroad (1 Trimester) (CRICOS course code 117377F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Sydney Polytechnic Institute over 17 weeks. This short program is designed for international students who want to experience studying in Australia without committing to a full degree. It falls under the Mixed Field Programmes category (Field of Education 129999), offering a broad introduction to academic study in an Australian context. As a CRICOS-registered course (04090E), Sydney Polytechnic Institute is approved to enrol international students, ensuring you study under the protections of the ESOS Act. Whether you're exploring future study options or enhancing your global perspective, this one-trimester program provides a flexible pathway. With tuition fees from A$9,900 and a prime location in Haymarket, Sydney, it's an accessible entry point to Australian education. Read on for full details on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and how to apply.
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Study Abroad (1 Trimester) is a Non AQF Award course, meaning it does not lead to a formal Australian qualification (Certificate, Diploma, or Degree) but provides valuable learning experience and a statement of attainment. The course is delivered over a single 17-week trimester in English, making it ideal for students seeking a short-term study option. As part of the mixed field programmes category (129999), the curriculum is broad and flexible, often covering study skills, cultural orientation, and foundational subjects. Sydney Polytechnic Institute is a private provider registered on CRICOS (04090E) and based in Sydney's CBD. All CRICOS-registered courses guarantee that the provider meets Australian Government standards for international education, including the ESOS Act protections.
While the specific syllabus is set by Sydney Polytechnic Institute, courses in the Mixed Field Programmes category (129999) typically offer a combination of general academic skills, exposure to Australian teaching methods, and an introduction to various disciplines. Students may develop English language proficiency in an academic context, critical thinking, and cross-cultural communication. The program is often tailored for international students, helping them adapt to the Australian education system. As it is a Non AQF Award, the focus is on learning outcomes rather than a formal qualification, making it suitable for those wanting to upgrade skills or explore new fields without a long-term commitment.
The course runs for 17 weeks (one trimester). According to the CRICOS register, the duration is exactly 17 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual awards) and is not classified as foundation studies or a VET course. Being a short course, it requires full-time attendance, typically with around 20 contact hours per week. The 17-week structure aligns with the academic trimester calendar at Sydney Polytechnic Institute, allowing students to complete the program within a single semester.
Tuition for the Study Abroad (1 Trimester) course is A$9,900 (indicative). Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment and administration) are A$454, giving an estimated total of A$10,354. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders and costs approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year depending on cover. Living costs in Sydney are around A$30,000–A$40,000 per year for a single student. Always check the Sydney Polytechnic Institute website (spi.nsw.edu.au) for the most current fees, as they are subject to change.
Entry requirements for Non AQF Award courses vary by provider. Typically, Sydney Polytechnic Institute may require applicants to have completed senior secondary schooling (Year 12 or equivalent) and demonstrate a certain level of English proficiency. The English language requirement is often IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent), depending on the course level and provider policy. For this specific course, it is essential to confirm directly with Sydney Polytechnic Institute whether they accept other English tests (TOEFL, PTE) or offer pathway programs. There is no formal foundation studies component. As a general guide, international students should also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, work placement, or professional experience integrated into the program. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you will still have work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain part-time work experience alongside your studies.
The course is delivered at Levels 3 and 4, 191 Thomas St, Haymarket, NSW. Haymarket is a vibrant inner-city suburb in Sydney, adjacent to the Sydney CBD and Chinatown. The campus is well-served by public transport, including Central Station (10-minute walk), light rail, and multiple bus routes. Living costs in the area are higher than the national average, with weekly rent for a share house around A$300–A$500, groceries A$100–A$200, and transport A$40–A$60. Sydney is home to over 60,000 international students and more than 300 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a rich multicultural study environment.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for CRICOS course 117377F, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Student work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. After course completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. Remember, visa conditions can change – always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
Follow these three steps to begin your Australian study journey:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS website to verify that Sydney Polytechnic Institute (CRICOS 04090E) is approved to offer course 117377F. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award) and location (NSW).
2. **Apply directly to Sydney Polytechnic Institute** – Submit your application via their admissions portal. You'll need to provide transcripts, English test scores (if required), and meet any specific entry criteria. Check application deadlines and intake dates for trimester start.
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll get a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a genuine student statement.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a top destination for international students. It boasts world-class universities, a diverse population, and a strong economy. However, the cost of living is high – expect to budget A$500–A$700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. The city has excellent public transport, including trains, buses, ferries, and light rail, making the Haymarket campus easily accessible. With over 60,000 international students from 140+ countries, you'll find a supportive community. Consider factors like climate (warm temperate), lifestyle, and career opportunities when deciding if Sydney is right for you.
Ready to apply? Start by exploring more CRICOS-registered short courses in Sydney on HeadStart Academy.
Study Abroad (1 Trimester) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney Polytechnic Institute. 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.