There are 72 Junior Secondary Studies courses offered by 72 CRICOS-registered providers across New South Wales. Junior Secondary Studies typically cater to students in Years 7 to 10 (approx. ages 12–16) and form the middle years of secondary schooling in Australia. This level provides a broad academic foundation before students choose specialised subjects in senior secondary. In NSW, these programs are delivered by a mix of private and government schools, all registered on CRICOS. Whether you're planning to study in Sydney, Newcastle, or regional areas, understanding the options, costs, and visa requirements is essential. HeadStart Academy is your free, independent resource to navigate this journey.
Counted from the official register for NSW: 74 non-expired CRICOS courses across 74 providers.
Most common course levels
Planning baseline from the CRICOS register [CRICOS register, Apr 2026]. Confirm fees, intakes and visa settings with the provider and government sources before applying.
Ranked by active CRICOS course coverage for Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales on the April 2026 register snapshot. Recalculated this build (2026-10-05). Use this as a shortlist, then confirm current fees and intakes with each provider.
Commercial disclosure: Payment does not affect this ranking or inclusion. Ordering is coverage-based from the CRICOS register — not an endorsement or quality score. How we rank · Is this legit?
The University of Sydney is a government CRICOS provider with 665 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$1 to A$634,121.477. Common levels include Doctoral Degree, Bachelor Degree, Masters Degree (Coursework).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00026A, Government, 665 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
The University of New South Wales (UNSW)
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is a government CRICOS provider with 665 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$500 to A$854,000. Common levels include Non AQF Award, Masters Degree (Research), Masters Degree (Coursework).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00098G, Government, 665 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is a government CRICOS provider with 526 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$1 to A$320,031. Common levels include Masters Degree (Coursework), Graduate Diploma, Masters Degree (Research).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00099F, Government, 526 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Macquarie University (Macquarie)
Macquarie University (Macquarie) is a government CRICOS provider with 458 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$1 to A$397,192. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Masters Degree (Coursework), Doctoral Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00002J, Government, 458 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
The University of Newcastle (UoN)
The University of Newcastle (UoN) is a government CRICOS provider with 456 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$3,999 to A$514,259. Common levels include Bachelor Honours Degree, Doctoral Degree, Masters Degree (Research).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00109J, Government, 456 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
University of Wollongong (UoW)
University of Wollongong (UoW) is a government CRICOS provider with 352 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$7,253 to A$312,683. Common levels include Bachelor Honours Degree, Bachelor Degree, Doctoral Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00102E, Government, 352 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Western Sydney University is a government CRICOS provider with 315 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$2 to A$429,100. Common levels include Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Bachelor Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00917K, Government, 315 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Australian Catholic University Limited
Australian Catholic University Limited is a government CRICOS provider with 175 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$10,640 to A$210,176. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Doctoral Degree, Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00004G, Government, 175 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Torrens University Australia Limited
Torrens University Australia Limited is a private CRICOS provider with 167 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$500 to A$134,455. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Diploma, Masters Degree (Coursework).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03389E, Private, 167 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Southern Cross University (SCU)
Southern Cross University (SCU) is a government CRICOS provider with 142 active courses matched to Junior Secondary Studies in New South Wales. Indicative course totals on register from A$13,880 to A$144,000. Common levels include Diploma, Masters Degree (Coursework), Graduate Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 01241G, Government, 142 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Similar to a register-first directory: every claim you can act on should be checkable against an official source. Full ranking rules: methodology.
Maintained by HeadStart Academy editorial · Snapshot recalculated this build (2026-10-05).
Junior Secondary Studies is not a standalone AQF qualification but a stage within the Australian school system, typically covering Years 7–10. It aligns with the AQF Level 1–3 in some vocational contexts, but primarily it prepares students for the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Year 12). Entry requirements usually include completion of primary schooling and demonstrated English proficiency (often IELTS 5.0–5.5 or equivalent). Students who complete Junior Secondary Studies can progress to Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Year 11–12) or vocational pathways like Certificate I or II. Australian schools under CRICOS must meet national standards for international student programs, ensuring a safe and high-quality education.
Tuition fees for Junior Secondary Studies in NSW range from A$9,412 to A$368,018, depending on the school, location, and facilities. Duration ranges from 3 years 1 month (~160 weeks) to 4 years. The table below breaks down indicative costs by field of education (data sourced from CRICOS register). Note that these fees are set by individual providers and subject to change. Additional costs include application fees, textbooks, uniform, and extracurricular activities. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for student visa holders (approx. A$500–$700/year for single cover). Living expenses in NSW vary: Sydney is more expensive (weekly rent A$300–$600, groceries A$80–$150, transport A$30–$50), while regional centres like Newcastle or Wollongong are cheaper. Always budget for these separate from tuition.
Here are some of the top providers by course count:
All these schools are CRICOS-registered, guaranteeing compliance with ESOS Act protections.
At the Junior Secondary Studies level in NSW, two fields of education are offered: 12 - Mixed Field Programmes and 07 - Education. Mixed Field Programmes cover broad, interdisciplinary subjects like general academic skills, literacy, numeracy, and personal development. Education-focused programmes may include studies in teaching or educational support. Most Junior Secondary courses fall under Mixed Field Programmes, reflecting the foundational nature of this stage. The mix of subjects allows students to explore various disciplines before specialising in senior years.
For Junior Secondary Studies in NSW, providers typically require an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL iBT 46–71, PTE Academic 36–46). Some schools may accept completion of English language preparation courses. Always check the specific entry requirements of your chosen provider, as exemptions may apply for students from English-speaking backgrounds or those who have studied in English for a set period.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study Junior Secondary Studies in Australia. Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and provide evidence of English proficiency. For students under 18, an accompanying parent or guardian may need a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). OSHC is compulsory for all student visa holders. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including a tuition assurance scheme. Always verify your visa requirements with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
Follow these three steps to start your Junior Secondary Studies in NSW:
NSW is Australia's most populous state, home to iconic cities like Sydney, as well as Newcastle, Wollongong, and regional centres. Sydney offers a vibrant multicultural environment but higher living costs. Regional NSW provides a quieter, affordable lifestyle with excellent schools. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers operate across Australia, with 72 offering Junior Secondary Studies in NSW. Consider climate, school size, and support services. Proximity to beaches, national parks, and cultural attractions also enrich the student experience.
Explore all 72 Junior Secondary Studies courses in NSW on HeadStart Academy. Use our free search to find your ideal school and start your Australian education journey.
Showing 74 junior secondary studies courses from 74 CRICOS providers in New South Wales.