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sydney aerial view
Sydney, Australia

Arts + Sciences Trimester (University of New South Wales)

New for Spring 2025!

Study Program

Dates

-

14 weeks

Costs

$17,450 See Full Breakdown

Credit

12 semester hours

18 quarter hours

Eligibility

3.0 Overall GPA

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

16 weeks

Costs

$17,950 See Full Breakdown

Credit

12 semester hours

18 quarter hours

Eligibility

2.7 Overall GPA

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

14 weeks

Credit

12 semester hours

18 quarter hours

Eligibility

3.0 Overall GPA

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your Arts + Sciences Trimester program in Sydney lasts 19 weeks and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a combination of CIEE courses, host institution courses, and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in Australian culture. Live and learn in Sydney!

Unique Experiences

Live in One of the Best Cosmopolitan Cities in the World

to enjoy everything a big city has to offer and learn about the Australian way of life

Immerse Yourself in Nature

choosing from endless options of beaches, national parks and natural attractions

\

Explore Art and Culture

getting involved in Sydney's bustling art scene with live music, markets, food, art and much more

Experience
  • Sydney

Your Destination

Sydney is Australia’s dynamic global city, celebrated for its rich cultural diversity, thriving arts scene, and world-class education and research. The city blends natural beauty with urban innovation – offering everything from iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge to cutting-edge museums, creative industries, and coastal parks. Whether you're studying the arts or sciences, Sydney provides top-tier academics and a vibrant lifestyle. With its buzzing food scene, outdoor adventures, and laid-back charm, Sydney is the perfect place to study abroad.

sydney-four-girls-boat-flag-island

Program Highlights

  • Academic Courses: Choose from host institution courses and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
  • Immersive Experiences: Participate in activities, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
  • Cultural Projects: Volunteer with members of the local community, join university clubs to socialize with your peers, and attend local workshops and events to get to know your host city.
sydney-student-art-installation

Excursions & Activities

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Sydney will open doors for you to explore Australia's rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.  

Samples of past excursions and activities: 

  • Enjoy a day at the famous Manly beach and join a guided historical Q-station (Quarantine Station) tour
  • Hike the spectacular Blue Mountains with experienced and informed guides ready to share the environmental and cultural history of the spectacular landscape  
  • Learn about Sydney's beach lifestyle while enjoying an Aussie BBQ (Barbie) 

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.    

Program Blogs

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Which Aussie Animal Are You Based on Your Study Habits? Studying abroad is full of adventure, but let’s be honest—we all approach uni life a little differently. Some of us... keep reading

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Sydney’s Best Independent Bookstores

By CIEE Sydney at CIEE

🛋️ Sydney’s Independent Bookstores 📖 Intro Tucked between the beaches, laneways, and buzzing cafés of Sydney are some absolute gems for book lovers—independent bookstores that have captured the hearts of... keep reading

scuba diving australia study abroad ciee
From CIEE

Settling in Abroad in Sydney, Australia

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Hannah Keefe Hi, my name is Hannah Keefe and I studied at CIEE Sydney for my first block. I have loved this program and the ability to stay in... keep reading

Housing

Housing & Meals

Housing

Our housing ensures students are always well-connected to the best of the city. Set in a  welcoming neighborhoods, students will enjoy a peaceful and secure living environment. Everything they need is within walking distance from their home, including various restaurants, supermarkets, a pharmacy, and easily accessible public transport options.    

Standard Housing: Includes homestays or twin rooms inside shared apartments/residence halls/studio apartments.  

  • Homestays provide students with the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Sydney's diverse culture. Sydney is a multicultural city, and students will stay with families from various nationalities, including Australians. These homes are located within a 45-minute to 1-hour public transport commute from CIEE. The homestay experience includes breakfast and dinner from Monday to Friday. Students will have the freedom to come and go as they please while spending quality time with their host families, gaining firsthand insight into everyday life in Sydney.
  • Double occupancy rooms in shared apartments/residence halls/studio apartments that feature a fully equipped kitchen, shared living rooms and bathrooms, and coin-operated shared laundry facilities onsite. Students must bring their own bed sheets and towels, pillows and duvets are provided. All apartments are located within a 45-minute commute to CIEE Center. 

Select Housing (limited availability): Includes single rooms in shared apartments/residence halls/studios within a 45-minute commute of CIEE. The single rooms will mostly be in the same apartments as the twin rooms. The apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, shared living rooms and bathrooms, and coin-operated shared laundry facilities onsite.  Students must bring their own bed sheets and towels; pillows and duvets are provided.     

A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive. Non-standard housing options require an additional fee that can be found in the program Dates and Fees. 

Meals

  • Homestays: Host families provide two meals per day. 
  • Shared Apartments/Residence Halls/Studio Apartments: You will have shared kitchen facilities to prepare meals or purchase food and drinks at local grocers. Sydney has a vibrant food scene with fresh local fruits, vegetables, and meats readily available. You’ll find Australian food is influenced from all corners of the globe, whether it’s a walk down Spice Alley, fish and chips on the beach, or a traditional Australian pub food there is something for everyone’s tastes.  
Shared apartment bedroom

Apartment

Twin room

Shared apartment kitchen area

Apartment

Shared kitchen

Shared apartment living area

Apartment

Common area

sydney student trying aboriginal bush food

Meals

A student trying aboriginal bush foods

Academics

Academics

CIEE Sydney: Study in a bustling urban area with easy access to the city’s most iconic landmarks and cultural attractions. CIEE Sydney boasts five classrooms, a study, a library, and a cozy lounge with kitchen amenities.

The University of New South Wales (UNSW): Established in 1949, UNSW is one of Australia’s leading research and teaching universities. Its main campus is located in the Kensington suburb of Sydney, which places it between world famous beaches and the multicultural bustling international city center. The university is comprised of nine faculties through which it offers bachelor, masters, and doctoral degrees across a diverse range of study fields. UNSW prides itself on combining world leading academics with modern facilities, quality education standards and a diverse community.

Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.

GPA

2.7

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Immigration/Entry Requirements

Visa Required: Yes

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.   

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

Students will enroll in UNSW full time for 3, 4-credit courses for a total of 12 US credits.  

Note: The required minimum must be secured (for visa purposes); an overload might be accepted on a case-by-case basis but should be avoided due to the expected high workload (this would also come at an additional cost).  

Program Credit

Total credit: 12 U.S. semester/18 quarter credits

Course Credit

UNSW Courses: 4 U.S. semester/6 quarter credits; 60 contact hours 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

Our trimester program at UNSW presents students with an opportunity to integrate into a dynamic academic community renowned for its excellence and innovation. With access to top-tier facilities, esteemed faculty, and an extensive array of courses spanning diverse disciplines, students are encouraged to delve into their interests, broaden their horizons, and forge meaningful connections with peers from across the globe. Classes at UNSW are typically scheduled throughout the week, with timings varying between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., offering flexibility for students to manage their academic commitments alongside other activities.

At UNSW, active participation and consistent attendance are fundamental to academic success. Students are expected to attend classes regularly and punctually, as outlined by UNSW regulations, which dictate that those attending less than 80% of scheduled classes risk being refused final assessment. This underscores the significance of fully engaging in academic experience, encompassing vibrant classroom discussions and immersive co-curricular activities.

With a nurturing learning environment and an unwavering dedication to excellence, UNSW empowers students to thrive academically, intellectually, and personally during their trimester program in Sydney, Australia. By fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and achievement, UNSW equips students with the tools and confidence to navigate their academic journey and emerge as globally minded scholars prepared to make a positive impact on the world.

Arizona State University: Most ASU online courses are asynchronous. You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online.

Class Format

UNSW classes are scheduled throughout the week, Monday to Friday, offering flexibility to accommodate students' various commitments. Attendance is emphasized, with students expected to attend a significant portion of face-to-face sessions.

Australian universities typically require students to take responsibility for learning and encourage self-motivation and self-discipline. Daily assignments and readings are common, disseminated through online platforms or email, allowing students to engage with course material beyond the classroom with the expectation that they will contribute actively to discussions during class. Students are expected to work much more independently than in the U.S., thus more time may be required for studying than students are accustomed to at their home campuses.  

To enhance learning experiences, many courses at both CIEE and the UNSW incorporate practical applications such as local field trips and guest speakers. These opportunities not only deepen students' understanding of the subject matter but also provide insights into the local culture and context.

Courses taught at the CIEE Center are typically for CIEE students only. Host Institution classes include both local and international students. Instruction for both CIEE and Host Institution courses is supported and augmented online by the learning management system, Canvas.

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5-weeks long in the semester, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end.

Grading

Assessment at UNSW is typically based on essays, project reports, a midterm, tutorial/seminar participation and performance, and practical and final exams. CIEE reports final grades for host institution courses using recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, following a predetermined grade conversion scale. 

ASU grading follows the same format and standards as ASU courses taught in-person. “Pass/fail” or “Audit” is not allowed for CIEE students.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

University of New South Wales (UNSW) Courses

Faculty of Engineering

Course Offerings: Explore a diverse range of engineering disciplines, from civil and mechanical engineering to electrical and aerospace engineering. Sample courses include Introduction to Engineering Design, Sustainable Energy Systems, and Advanced Materials Engineering.

Course Lists:(Note: Not all courses listed are offered every semester, and some courses may have prerequisites. Final course lists are available during the enrollment process.)

Faculty of Business

Course Offerings: Immerse yourself in the world of business with courses covering areas such as finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. Sample courses include Financial Accounting, Marketing Principles, and Strategic Management.

Course Lists: (Note: Course availability may vary each semester, and some courses may require prior background knowledge for enrolment.)

Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture (Includes Social Science)

Course Offerings: Engage with a wide array of disciplines including sociology, psychology, languages, and media studies. Sample courses include Introduction to Psychology, Globalization and Culture, and Spanish Language and Culture.

Course Lists: (Note: The listed courses serve as a representative sample and may not be available every semester. Prerequisites may apply for certain courses.)

Faculty of Science

Course Offerings: Delve into the realms of science with courses covering biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. Sample courses include Cell Biology, Organic Chemistry, and Astrophysics.

Course Lists: (Note: Course availability is subject to change, and prerequisites may be required for enrollment.)

Please note that not all courses listed are offered every semester, and course availability may vary. Additionally, some courses may have prerequisites, and final course lists are made available during the enrollment process on-site. The provided sample courses offer a glimpse into the diverse academic offerings available at the University of New South Wales. 

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing
Program Fall 2025 14 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $17,450
Program Spring 2026 16 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $17,950
Program Fall 2026 14 weeks Start Date * End Date *

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $11,506 **
Housing $5,450 ***
Insurance $194
Total Fees $17,450

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.

Select Housing Fee $2,800

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $590 †
International Airfare $1,700 ††
Local Transportation $800 †††
Books & Supplies $40
Visa Fees $1,120
Personal expenses $261 ††††
Other $330 †††††
Total Costs $4,841

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

†For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day during the week. For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $375 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on US East Coast departure

†††Transport costs are $50AUD per week.

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

†††††OSHC - Extra Health Insurance for Student Visa

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $11,706 **
Housing $5,750 ***
Insurance $194
Total Fees $17,950

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $701 †
International Airfare $1,700 ††
Local Transportation $550 †††
Books & Supplies $40
Visa Fees $1,120
Personal expenses $285 ††††
Other $330 †††††
Total Costs $4,726

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

†For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day during the week. For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $390 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on US East Coast departure

†††Transport costs are $50AUD per week.

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

†††††OSHC - Extra Health Insurance for Student Visa

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Thais Oso

Thais Oso

Regional Director of Operations for South Pacific Rim, Interim Center Directy, CIEE Sydney

Thais started her career as a psychologist working in the Brazilian favelas. She travelled to Australia 19 years ago as a Study Abroad student and fell in love with the...

jane-hanley

Jane Hanley

Academic Director

Dr. Jane Hanley has a PhD in International Studies from Macquarie University, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Latin American Literature from University of New South Wales, and a Bachelor of...

Crystal Reay

Crystal Reay

Program Manager

Crystal is a born and raised Sydney Sider with a Bachelor of Theology and a background that blends over 15 years in Arts, Library Information, and Museum Services. After completing...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

Apply Now

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

Contact Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Contact Us

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