Summer Down Under Program (Study Abroad) (CRICOS course code 119422A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 11 weeks. This short-term study abroad program is designed for international students seeking an immersive academic and cultural experience in Newcastle, NSW. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00109J), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. The program falls under Mixed Field Programmes (Field of Education 129999), offering a broad interdisciplinary curriculum. Students will gain exposure to Australian education methods, develop cross-cultural skills, and explore the vibrant city of Newcastle. With an indicative tuition fee of A$5,000 and additional non-tuition costs of A$3,999, the estimated total is A$8,999. Please note: OSHC, living expenses, and visa application fees are not included. The University of Newcastle, a government-funded public university, has a strong reputation for research and teaching. For current fees and detailed course information, always refer to the provider's website at www.newcastle.edu.au.
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Summer Down Under Program (Study Abroad) (CRICOS 119422A) is a Non AQF Award level course at The University of Newcastle (UoN). The program is ideal for international students who want a short-term study experience in Australia without committing to a full degree. It is classified under Field of Education 129999 (Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.), meaning it covers a broad mix of subjects rather than a single discipline. This course does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but provides a certificate of completion. It is part of the university's study abroad offerings, allowing students to experience academic life at a leading Australian university while enjoying the coastal lifestyle of Newcastle. The course is delivered face-to-face at the Newcastle City campus, with English as the language of instruction. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can enrol and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The University of Newcastle is CRICOS provider 00109J, a government-owned institution with over 40,000 students. Newcastle itself is a vibrant city with a student population exceeding 50,000 studying across multiple CRICOS-registered providers.
As a Mixed Field Programme (n.e.c.), the Summer Down Under Program offers a customisable curriculum that typically includes a combination of academic subjects, cultural activities, and language support. While the specific syllabus is set by The University of Newcastle, students can expect to engage in interdisciplinary learning that may cover areas such as Australian society, business, environment, and communication. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, cross-cultural competency, and foundational knowledge across multiple fields. For international students, this is an excellent opportunity to improve English proficiency and gain exposure to Australian teaching styles. The course content is structured to be intensive yet accessible, with assessments that may include projects, presentations, and reflective journals. Graduates of this program often return home with enhanced global perspectives and academic confidence.
According to the CRICOS register, the Summer Down Under Program has a duration of 11 weeks (11 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification with no dual or foundation components. It is delivered full-time on-campus at the Newcastle City campus. There are no online or part-time options for this program. Students must attend classes in person, which provides full immersion into the university environment and local culture. The relatively short duration makes it an attractive option for students on semester break or those seeking a compact study abroad experience.
The indicative tuition fee for the Summer Down Under Program is A$5,000, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$3,999. The estimated total cost is A$8,999. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Important: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Students should budget for additional expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and personal costs. Newcastle's cost of living is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne; indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around A$350–$450, while a typical weekly grocery bill is A$80–$120. For the most current fee schedule, always check The University of Newcastle's official website at www.newcastle.edu.au.
Entry requirements for the Summer Down Under Program vary by provider. Typically, applicants need to have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. English language proficiency is essential; providers usually require IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on the course level. For this Non AQF Award program, a minimum IELTS of 5.5 or equivalent may be acceptable, but The University of Newcastle will set specific requirements. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable as this is a short-term program. Students should confirm exact entry criteria with the university before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The Summer Down Under Program is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Newcastle City) campus, located in the heart of Newcastle, NSW. Newcastle is a coastal city approximately 160 km north of Sydney, known for its beaches, culture, and student-friendly atmosphere. The city is home to over 50,000 students across multiple institutions, including the University of Newcastle and several VET providers. Public transport includes buses and a light rail connecting major suburbs to the city campus. The Newcastle City campus is modern and well-equipped, with libraries, study spaces, and student support services. Newcastle also offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney, making it an appealing study destination.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in Australia, and students may also work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, with unlimited work during scheduled break periods. Visa applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or visiting homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy’s course finder to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that The University of Newcastle (CRICOS 00109J) offers Summer Down Under Program (119422A).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application via the university’s international admissions portal. Provide academic transcripts, English language test results, and a copy of your passport.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once the university issues a CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Pay the visa application charge, arrange OSHC, and provide evidence of financial capacity.
For detailed application guidance, visit The University of Newcastle’s official website.
Mixed Field Programmes offer flexibility for students who want to explore multiple subjects without committing to a single major. However, they may not lead to a specific qualification recognised in your home country. Before enrolling, consider your long-term academic and career goals. Research whether the credits from this short program can be transferred to your home institution. Newcastle offers a safe, affordable environment with plenty of outdoor activities and a multicultural community. The city has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationwide, including many in Newcastle, offering diverse courses. Check that the provider meets ESOS Act protections for international students.
Ready to experience study in Australia? Explore Summer Down Under Program at The University of Newcastle and take the first step. Check CRICOS registration and apply today.
Summer Down Under Program (Study Abroad) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.