Extended General Foundation Studies Program (CRICOS course code 117459D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This foundation studies course is designed for international students seeking a pathway to undergraduate degrees, combining academic skills development with introductory subject knowledge. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03663C), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness. Whether you are planning to study in Parramatta or explore other mixed field programmes, this course provides a structured entry point into Australian higher education. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses available, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options free of charge—no referral fees, no commissions.
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Extended General Foundation Studies Program (CRICOS course code 117459D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This foundation studies program is ideal for international students who need to meet academic and English language entry requirements for undergraduate study. As a non-award course, it does not confer a degree or diploma but provides a recognised pathway to further education. The course is registered with CRICOS (provider code 03663C), meaning it complies with the ESOS Act and National Code, ensuring student protections. HeadStart Academy sources all information from the official CRICOS register, updated April 2026, so you can rely on current data. The provider, Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd, is a private institution offering pathway programs to Western Sydney University degrees.
The field of education for this course is Mixed Field Programmes (12), specifically General Education Programmes (1201) and General Education Programmes, n.e.c. (120199). This means the curriculum covers a broad range of foundational subjects rather than a specialised discipline. Students typically develop academic literacy, critical thinking, research skills, and introductory knowledge in areas such as humanities, social sciences, mathematics, and communication. The course prepares learners for undergraduate study by bridging gaps in prior education and building confidence in an academic setting. While specific syllabus details are set by Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd, the general focus is on equipping international students with the skills needed to succeed in Australian universities. Graduates often progress to bachelor's degrees at Western Sydney University or other institutions.
The Extended General Foundation Studies Program is delivered over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, with no dual qualification offered. This is a single qualification course, meaning it does not lead to multiple awards. The duration is designed to accommodate international students who require a full academic year of preparation before commencing undergraduate studies. Full-time study is typically expected, and the course may be offered in semesters or trimesters depending on the provider. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the duration is registered and monitored for compliance. Students should plan their visa accordingly, as the Student visa (Subclass 500) typically aligns with the course duration plus additional time.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$39,900, with non-tuition fees of A$225, giving an estimated total of A$40,125. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. For current fee information, always confirm directly with Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd. HeadStart Academy provides these estimates as a guide only. Parramatta, where the course is delivered, has a weekly cost of living estimated at A$500–700 for rent, food, and transport. The city is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community. ESOS Act protections ensure fee refund policies are in place for international students.
English language requirements for this foundation program vary by provider, but typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level. For this Non AQF Award, a minimum IELTS 5.5 (with no band below 5.0) is commonly required, but check with Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd. Prior qualifications: students should have completed Year 11 or equivalent in their home country. Foundation/pathway options are available, as this course is itself a foundation program. Some students may also need to meet specific subject prerequisites. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly for precise entry criteria. As with all international applications, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; institutions assess each application individually.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, work placement, or industry experience integrated into the program. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake part-time work (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks) subject to visa conditions. This work is not part of the course but can help with living costs. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current work rights. The absence of a work component means the course focuses solely on academic preparation, which may be suitable for students who prioritise study over practical experience at this stage.
This course is delivered at 2b-6 Hassall Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, in the suburb of Parramatta, New South Wales. Parramatta is a major commercial and educational hub in Greater Western Sydney, with a large student population and excellent public transport links (trains, buses, ferries). The campus is easily accessible from Sydney CBD via train (approx. 30 minutes) and from other suburbs. Parramatta has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a diverse mix of courses and nationalities. Weekly rent for a single room in shared accommodation is around A$200–300, with groceries and transport adding another A$200–300 per week. The area offers numerous student services, libraries, and recreational facilities, making it a popular choice for international students.
International students enrolling in CRICOS-registered courses like this one typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and sufficient English language proficiency. Under the current framework, student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance. CRICOS registration ensures the course meets visa eligibility requirements.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Extended General Foundation Studies Program at Western Sydney University International College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and city (Parramatta) to confirm your options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet the entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any other documents. Check application deadlines on the provider's website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you arrange OSHC and show financial capacity. For visa assistance, seek a registered migration agent.
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Extended General Foundation Studies Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University International College 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.