aerial view of bondi beach in sydney
Sydney, Australia

Semester in Sydney

New for Spring 2025!

Study Program

Dates

-

19 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 17 semester hours

18 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Dates

TBD

Costs

Credit

12 - 17 semester hours

18 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

19 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 17 semester hours

18 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

18 weeks

Credit

12 - 17 semester hours

18 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your Semester in Sydney program lasts a full semester 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

\

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

Experience
  • Sydney

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.

sydney students trying aboriginal food

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 activites, 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. 
sydney student feeding a kangaroo

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

From CIEE

Scared to Go, Sad to Leave: My Life-Changing Semester in Sydney

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

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

From CIEE

Which Aussie Animal Are You Based on Your Study Habits?

By CIEE Sydney at CIEE

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

From CIEE

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

Housing
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.

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.

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

All Semester In students take 4-5 courses for a total of 12-17 semester credits, choosing from: 

  • Minimum of 2oCIEE courses
  • 0-2 University of Sydney courses taught in English
    • Participants can either take all their classes at CIEE or combine courses at CIEE with courses offered at the University of Sydney. There is a commute of about 20 minutes between CIEE and the University of Sydney campus.
  • Online Course Options: substitute up to two ASU online courses

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-17 U.S. semester/18-25.5 quarter credits 

Course Credit

  • CIEE Courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours
  • CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 seminar hours, 100-120 placement hours 
  • University of Sydney Courses: Typically, 4 U.S. semester credits/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

The academic environment at the University of Sydney emphasizes active engagement, collaboration, and the integration of diverse perspectives. Lectures are typically led by knowledgeable instructors who foster discussions and encourage active participation from students.  

CIEE courses, augmented by Canvas Learning Management System, are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The class environment typically features a combination of traditional lecture and discussion with co-curricular excursions and activities. Heavy emphasis is placed on student participation. Similar to classes at U.S. institutions, students should expect to spend an average of two hours of preparation and study for each hour in CIEE classes.

To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel out of Sydney when classes are in session and plan trips for the long weekends. 

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

The academic environment at CIEE Sydney offers a focused and immersive experience for students, blending rigorous coursework with hands-on learning opportunities to deepen understanding of both academic subjects and the local culture.

CIEE courses typically run from Monday through Thursday, providing students with a concentrated schedule that allows for intensive study and exploration. This condensed format encourages students to fully engage with the material and make the most of their time in Sydney. Attendance in CIEE classes is strictly enforced, both for classes and required co-curricular excursions.

University of Sydney 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 University of Sydney 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 University of Sydney 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. For CIEE-administered courses, students’ grades are based on attendance, class participation, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi. The U.S. grading scale of A – F is used.

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

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

History, Philosophy, Religion

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Engineering and Engineering Technologies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Psychology

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

History, Philosophy, Religion

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Engineering and Engineering Technologies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Psychology

Course
Language
Semester Credit

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

 

Program Options
Program Options

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 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.

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 $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.

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 $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.

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 $832
International Airfare $1,700 ††
Local Transportation $650 †††
Books & Supplies $40
Visa Fees $470
Personal expenses $320 ††††
Total Costs $4,012

*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.

††††$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.

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

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

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 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!

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.

Request Info