Semester in Sydney
Unique Experiences
Immerse Yourself in Sydney's Vibrant Culture
with hands-on experiences like Indigenous art workshops, harbor cruises, and guided walking tours
Discover Sydney's Dynamic Urban Scene
with access to world-class museums, bustling markets, and performances at iconic venues like the Sydney Opera House
Experience the Natural Beauty of Sydney
with excursions to stunning coastal cliffs, wildlife sanctuaries, and surfing lessons on famous beaches like Bondi and Manly
Your Destination
Sydney is Australia's cosmopolitan city, offering an inspiring environment for students of all disciplines. The city’s unique blend of cultures, iconic architectural landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, bustling markets, and lively arts scene create an enriching backdrop for studying abroad. Whether you're studying business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Sydney is the perfect place to study abroad.
Program Highlights
- Academic Courses: Choose from CIEE courses, host institution courses, and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
- Optional Internship Placements: Enhance your program with an optional for-credit internship that aligns with your career aspirations.
- 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.
- Academic Projects: Enroll in an optional for-credit independent research project or service-learning project for increased professional development opportunities.
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:
- Learn about Sydney's beach lifestyle while enjoying an Aussie BBQ at locations like Bondi Beach, Coogee Beach, and Shelly Beach
- Hike the spectacular Blue Mountains with experienced and informed guides ready to share the environmental and cultural history of the spectacular landscape
- Visit Australia's capital Canberra, where you'll learn about parliamentary government while seeing world-class attractions and amazing architecture
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
Scared to Go, Sad to Leave: My Life-Changing Semester in Sydney
By: Jordan Schwartz Choosing Sydney, Australia with CIEE Study Abroad was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I cannot even begin to describe how incredible this experience... keep reading
Which Aussie Animal Are You Based on Your Study Habits?
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
Sydney’s Best Independent Bookstores
🛋️ 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
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.
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.
University of Sydney: Established in 1850, the University of Sydney stands as Australia’s oldest university and is known for academic excellence and research. As a proud member of the Group of Eight, akin to the Ivy League in the USA, its history is matched by its modern, vibrant campus in downtown Sydney's Camperdown neighborhood. Here, students benefit from a seamless integration of esteemed faculty, cutting-edge research, and a diverse array of programs across nine faculties, offering opportunities for growth and innovation in every field of study.
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.
Course Information
Academic Projects
Social Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
History, Philosophy, Religion
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
Academic Projects
Social Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
History, Philosophy, Religion
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
University of Sydney
- Students can opt to take courses across a wide range of academic fields, including:
- Architecture, design, and planning
- Arts and social sciences
- Business
- Communications
- Economics
- Education and social work
- Engineering and computer science
- Law
- Medicine and health
- Music
- Science
The University of Sydney offers around 2500 courses per semester. Explore the full list of courses in the Course Handbook Online.
CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO
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 & 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
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- MSI Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
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 19 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $21,950 |
| Program Academic year 2025-2026 | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date * | End Date TBD* | Fees & Housing $42,800 |
| Program Spring 2026 19 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Fees & Housing $21,950 | |
| Program Fall 2026 18 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 | $14,456 ** |
| Housing | $7,000 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $21,950 |
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.
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 | $758 † |
| International Airfare | $1,700 †† |
| Local Transportation | $800 ††† |
| Books & Supplies | $40 |
| Visa Fees | $470 |
| Personal expenses | $310 †††† |
| Total Costs | $4,078 |
*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 U.S. East Coast departure
†††Transport costs are $50AUD per week.
††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
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 | $27,306 ** |
| Housing | $15,000 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $42,800 |
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.
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 | $758 † |
| International Airfare | $1,700 †† |
| Local Transportation | $800 ††† |
| Books & Supplies | $40 |
| Visa Fees | $470 |
| Personal expenses | $310 †††† |
| Total Costs | $4,078 |
*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 U.S. East Coast departure
†††Transport costs are $50AUD per week.
††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
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 | $13,456 ** |
| Housing | $8,000 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $21,950 |
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.
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 | $832 † |
| International Airfare | $1,700 †† |
| Local Transportation | $650 ††† |
| Books & Supplies | $40 |
| Visa Fees | $1,280 †††† |
| Personal expenses | $320 ††††† |
| Total Costs | $4,822 |
*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 U.S. East Coast departure
†††Transport costs are $50AUD per week.
††††$1,280 for students who enroll in at least three courses at a partner institution. $429 for students who enroll in two courses or fewer at a partner institution.
†††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
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.
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
Our Staff
Thais Oso
Regional Director of Operations for South Pacific Rim, Interim Center Director, CIEE Sydney + CIEE Auckland
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
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
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
1
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.
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