Western Sydney University (CRICOS provider code 00917K) is a government CRICOS-registered provider offering 315 active courses to international students. As a public university in New South Wales, it delivers programs across multiple campuses in Greater Western Sydney, as well as a delivery location in Melbourne. With capacity for 10,500 international students, Western Sydney University is one of Australia's largest and most diverse universities. Its courses span from Diplomas and Bachelor degrees to Doctorates, covering fields such as Health, Management and Commerce, Engineering, Information Technology, and more. The university is committed to providing high-quality education and support services for international students, with all programs covered by the ESOS Act protections. Whether you're looking to study in Bankstown, Parramatta, or Liverpool, Western Sydney University offers a welcoming environment with strong industry connections and research opportunities.
Western Sydney University, established in 1989, is a modern public university focused on innovation and impact. Its CRICOS provider code 00917K uniquely identifies it on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). The university is registered to enrol up to 10,500 international students at any one time, reflecting its significant role in Australian higher education. With 315 active courses, it offers one of the broadest ranges of study options among Australian universities. The main administrative address is in Penrith, NSW 2751, but teaching takes place across multiple campuses in Greater Sydney and one location in Melbourne. As a government institution, it meets stringent quality standards set by the Australian Government, including compliance with the ESOS Act and the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students.
In the CRICOS context, 'Government' means the institution is publicly funded and operated. For Western Sydney University, this classification indicates it is a public university, as opposed to a private college or independent provider. Government institutions in Australia include universities, TAFEs, and public schools. They are subject to oversight by Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and must meet the Higher Education Standards Framework. For international students, studying at a government provider often means access to robust student support services, research facilities, and government-funded amenities. Public universities like Western Sydney University are also generally more affordable than private alternatives while maintaining high academic standards. Additionally, degrees from government universities are widely recognised globally, and graduates may be eligible for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485).
Western Sydney University delivers courses across multiple campuses in New South Wales and one in Victoria. Here are the primary delivery locations:
These campuses are well-connected by public transport. Parramatta is a major transport hub, and Liverpool and Campbelltown have train stations. The Melbourne location is in the CBD. Sydney has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, and Western Sydney University is one of the largest. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is about AUD 250-400, groceries AUD 80-150, and transport AUD 40-60. In Melbourne, similar costs apply. Students should budget accordingly. The university offers on-campus accommodation and support for finding housing.
Western Sydney University offers a wide range of course levels on the CRICOS register. These include:
With 315 active courses, students can find programs in almost every discipline. The university is particularly strong in Health, Nursing, Education, Business, and ICT. Many courses offer work-integrated learning and industry placements.
Western Sydney University offers courses in the following ASCED broad fields of education:
These fields cover a vast range of specialisations. For example, under Health, the university offers a Bachelor of Nursing and a Doctor of Medicine. Under Management and Commerce, there are over 30 programs. Students can easily find courses aligned with their career goals.
International students accepted into a CRICOS-registered course at Western Sydney University can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion: demonstrating genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. - English language proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic scores as specified by the university. - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): mandatory health insurance for the duration of the visa. - Financial capacity: proof of funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. - Welfare arrangements if under 18.
Visa applications are processed by the Department of Home Affairs. While the university's Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is required, HeadStart Academy cannot guarantee visa outcomes. Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department for individual advice. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights, including refund policies and course quality standards.
Follow these three steps to study at Western Sydney University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Check that your chosen course is CRICOS-registered (all Western Sydney University courses are).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Meet entry requirements (academic and English), submit your application via the university's online portal, and provide all necessary documents. Deadlines vary by intake (typically February and July).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, the university issues a CoE. Use this to apply for the Student visa. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a genuine study intention.
HeadStart Academy provides course information but does not process applications. Contact Western Sydney University for specific admission guidance.
Always confirm the CRICOS registration status of any provider before applying. Western Sydney University's CRICOS provider code is 00917K. You can verify this on the official CRICOS register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au. As of April 2026, the provider is actively registered with no restrictions. Registration status can change, so check before enrolling. CRICOS registration is your assurance that the course meets Australian Government standards for international students. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Ready to start your journey at Western Sydney University? Browse all 315 courses on HeadStart Academy and apply today.
Western Sydney University (CRICOS 00917K) is a Government provider in Penrith, NSW with 315 currently non-expired CRICOS courses [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Example course from the register: Graduate Diploma in Start Up Scale Up (CRICOS 0100186) is listed at 52 weeks with tuition A$39,340.455 and estimated total A$39,640.455 [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Important: This page is general information only and not migration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) evidence requirements and current financial settings, verify directly with the Department of Home Affairs [checked 2026-08-21].