The Exchange Program (CRICOS course code 117436M) is a Non AQF Award designed for international students seeking a flexible study experience in Australia. Delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03392K), this one-year program allows students to immerse themselves in creative studies in Melbourne, Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act. Melbourne, Australia's cultural capital, offers a vibrant arts scene, diverse communities, and world-class infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for this exchange experience. This page provides all the essential details – from indicative fees and entry requirements to delivery locations and visa guidance – to help you make an informed decision. All data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Exchange Program (CRICOS course code 117436M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd over 1 year (52 weeks). This program falls under the field of education '129999 - Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.', which covers interdisciplinary and customised study pathways that do not fit into standard classifications. As a Non AQF Award, the course does not lead to a nationally recognised qualification but provides participants with valuable learning outcomes, cultural immersion, and academic enrichment. Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd is a private provider registered on CRICOS (provider code 03392K) and is known for its creative arts programs. The course is taught entirely in English and does not include a work component. Students who complete this program may gain skills applicable to further study or career development in creative and cultural industries.
As a Mixed Field Programme (n.e.c.), the Exchange Program offers broad and customisable content that allows students to explore multiple disciplines. While the exact syllabus is set by Australian College of the Arts, typical Non AQF Awards at this level focus on introductory concepts, practical workshops, and cross-cultural learning. Students can expect to engage in subjects such as arts fundamentals, creative practice, communication skills, and Australian culture – all designed to foster adaptability and global perspectives. The program encourages experiential learning through projects, group work, and campus activities. This is not a vocational or higher education qualification, so the emphasis is on personal and professional development rather than a formal credential. Course structure and units are confirmed at enrolment; prospective students should contact the provider for detailed curriculum information.
The Exchange Program is a single-qualification course with a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is conducted entirely in English, suitable for international students. The program is offered on a full-time basis, with classes scheduled across the academic year. There is no mandatory work component or dual qualification attached. This standard duration allows students to fully experience Melbourne's creative environment while meeting their study goals. As a Non AQF Award, it does not follow a traditional semester breakdown; the provider structures the academic calendar to maximise flexibility and immersion.
Indicative fees for the Exchange Program, as recorded on the CRICOS register, are A$0 for tuition, A$0 for non-tuition fees, and an estimated total of A$0. Please note that these fees may not reflect actual costs; they are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change. The zero-fee listing may indicate a reciprocal exchange arrangement or require confirmation. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current, accurate fee information, always visit the provider's website at www.collarts.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider – for Non AQF Awards like the Exchange Program, Australian College of the Arts typically expects IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall or equivalent, depending on the course level. Applicants should have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. Since this is a Non AQF Award, specific prior qualifications may not be mandatory, but providers often assess academic readiness. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements; contact the provider for details. Entry requirements are subject to change, and meeting minimum criteria does not guarantee admission.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may still be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, the course itself does not offer or require work-integrated learning or internships.
The Exchange Program is delivered at four locations in Melbourne, Victoria: 208 Wellington Street, Collingwood; 67-69 Cromwell Street, Collingwood; 209 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy; and Level 2, 156 George Street, Fitzroy. An additional location is at 67-69 Cromwell Street – note that 209 Brunswick Street is listed as Fitzroy but also under South Melbourne in the register; please confirm exact campus with the provider. All campuses are in inner-Melbourne suburbs with excellent public transport access via trams and trains. Collingwood and Fitzroy are known for their vibrant arts scenes, cafés, and creative communities. Melbourne is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population (approx. 200,000), offering a supportive study environment. Typical living costs in Melbourne: rent $400–$600/week, groceries $150–$200/week, public transport $40–$50/week. These figures are indicative and subject to change.
International students enrolled in the Exchange Program must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian College of the Arts, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and proof of financial capacity. With this visa, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). The course duration of 52 weeks makes you eligible for a visa covering the study period plus additional time. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring refund rights and quality standards. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for the Exchange Program at Australian College of the Arts involves three simple steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to search for courses like Exchange Program, filter by state, course level (Non AQF Award), and location. Confirm that the provider is CRICOS-registered (03392K). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit www.collarts.edu.au to review entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (academic transcripts, passport, etc.). 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, offering a rich cultural experience for international students. With over 150 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse student community, you'll find ample support and networking opportunities. The Exchange Program's locations in Collingwood and Fitzroy place you in the heart of Melbourne's creative district, surrounded by galleries, music venues, and studios. Public transport connects all campuses easily to the city centre. Living costs in Melbourne are generally lower than in Sydney: expect weekly rent $400–$600, groceries $150–$200, and transport $40–$50. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including tuition refunds if the provider fails to deliver. Choose the Exchange Program for a flexible, immersive Australian education experience.
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Exchange Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd. 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.