Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge Widjabal Country as the Country where Southern Cross University originated and grew, and from where it continues to grow. It seeded the growth of our Gumbaynggirr Campus in Coffs Harbour, our Yugambeh Campus in Coolangatta and it planted the seeds to transform the Countries we are on.
Understanding our origins will make each step into the future a more purposeful one, leading all to transform tomorrow
Our campuses
Southern Cross is a multi-campus university on Australia’s east coast with main campuses at the Gold Coast in Queensland, in the Northern Rivers and at Coffs Harbour in New South Wales.
The regions we call home all have unique characteristics as study locations – from cosmopolitan cities, thriving industries and coastal lifestyles to living laboratories of great natural beauty and ecological diversity within easy reach of the campus.
3 Main campuses
4 Metro campuses
Main campuses Gold Coast, Lismore, Coffs Harbour
Metro and Hotel School campuses
Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth
20,000+
Students
Lismore
10 reasons to study at Southern Cross University
Outstanding student support
Top 100 young university
Times
Higher Education World University rankings
Interactive teaching and learning model
World class facilities
Unique campus locations
Experiential learning opportunities
Study in six-week terms
Short-term summer program (July-August)
Stay on or near campus in comfortable accommodation
Make new friends from around the world
Published by Southern Cross University September 2025. The information in this brochure was accurate at the time it was published and is to be used as a guide only. Southern Cross University reserves the right to alter, amend or delete details of course offerings and other information published in the brochure at any stage. To the extent permitted at law, the University excludes all liability (including all losses, damages, costs and expenses of whatever nature) arising from the use of, or reliance on, any of the Information contained in this brochure. Information in this brochure is for international students wanting to study in Australia.
Study a session in Australia and explore our beautiful country...
Maddie’ s Story
“My adventure here at Southern Cross University will always have a special place in my heart! I love it here in Lismore, and the community is absolutely wonderful. Traveling to Uluru, Great Barrier Reef, and Sydney were all beautiful unforgettable experiences! Volunteering at the Friends of the Koala Hospital on campus has been such a blessing and the team of International Staff has been wonderful during my time abroad. I have made such strong connections and feel I will always have a second family here in Lismore, Australia!”
Maddie University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
“Studying Abroad at Southern Cross University in Australia has been such an amazing opportunity! Exploring this beautiful country and the great people I have met along the way is an experience that will be with me forever.”
Hannah
University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire (USA)
“I am forever thankful for the opportunity to study abroad on the beautiful Gold Coast, I never imagined it would be the most fulfilling experience of my life. In addition to learning how to surf, I started playing beach volleyball, went to yoga classes, and took hikes that were simply amazing. Suddenly, studying had a new meaning.”
Denise (Germany)
“Before coming to Australia, I felt speaking English was a bit scary. After taking the EAP course, having conversations in English is really fun. In EAP there are many great teachers and friendly students from many countries, so it was a very precious experience and the memory is very important for me.”
Maoko Japan
Gold Coast campus
Our Gold Coast campus is located at Coolangatta on the lands of the Yugambeh Nation, just 400 metres from North Kirra Beach, and adjacent to the Gold Coast Airport. Many vantage points offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
The campus is spread across three contemporary buildings that house innovative learning spaces, health science laboratories, computer labs, student lounges, the University’s Digital Enterprise Lab and an on-campus Health Clinic.
Take a virtual tour of our Gold Coast campus
Lismore campus
Lismore is the foundation Southern Cross campus, located in the heart of the Northern Rivers on the lands of the Bundjalung Nation. Set on acres of lush rainforest that includes a koala hospital, Lismore is within easy reach of both national parks and the ocean.
The campus is home to state-of-the-art engineering and environmental science facilities, specialist health labs and simulated hospital wards, a Learning Centre and library complex, heated pool and gym, on-campus accommodation and a Health Clinic.
Take a virtual tour of our Lismore campus
Coffs Harbour campus
Coffs Harbour campus is located on the lands of the Gumbaynggirr Nation at the heart of an education and innovation hub. Coffs Harbour boasts a relaxed coastal lifestyle, but this growing city also hosts international sporting events and regional festivals thanks to outstanding facilities and a major regional airport.
A multi-million-dollar Health Sciences Building on campus features a biomechanics running track and high-tech simulation teaching laboratories. The campus also has a fitness centre, on-campus accommodation, sporting fields and close proximity to beautiful beaches and national parks. The University’s world renowned National Marine Science Centre is located in nearby Charlesworth Bay.
Take a virtual tour of our Coffs Harbour campus
Life at Southern Cross
Southern Cross Global
The team assists students with pre-departure information, settling in, orientation, student visa advice and health insurance advice, wellbeing and welfare. The team assists students with unit selection, pre-departure information, settling in, orientation, student visa advice and health insurance advice, wellbeing and welfare.
Orientation
Orientation is the first week before studies commence. It is designed to help students settle into their new environment and meet new friends.
Community engagement
Students can volunteer with local community organisations including the Koala Hospital located on the Southern Cross University Lismore campus, or at local festivals.
Explore Australia
Part of your study abroad experience includes exploring all Australia has to offer. There are several trips through the year, from camping adventures in the Australian outback to exploring World Heritage rainforests and waterfalls, or surf lessons at our beautiful local beaches.
Ambassadors
Student ambassadors provide a point of contact for new students, having experienced the same challenges of living and studying in a new country. Ambassadors mentor students, organise and participate in events and coordinate volunteering.
“Southern Cross has been amazing. Living on campus gave me the opportunity to meet a lot of friends. It’s definitely a plus to be able to walk to my classes, walk to the gym, walk to the plaza to get some food, everything’s close by. I really like the location of the (Lismore) campus, it’s really open and I just like the environment.”
Colin
St Cloud State University, Minnesota
Campus life
Get more out of your experience by joining a club, playing a sport or participating in the many social and cultural activities that make our campuses such great places to study.
The Southern Cross Model
At Southern Cross University, we’re always looking for a better way to do things. That’s why all our courses are taught in a unique academic model that’s designed to set you up for success at university and beyond.
The Southern Cross Model divides the academic year into six-week terms. You’ll study two units (subjects) each Term, for four Terms a year, enabling you to focus deeply on what you are learning.
Content is highly interactive, with engaging face-to-face and active learning formats that have real-world applications. A shorter unit structure gives you a greater sense of momentum and motivation as you achieve milestones quickly.
Use the QR code below to learn more about the Southern Cross Model – a better way to learn.
Six-week Terms
Terms are six-weeks long with a break between each one. You’ll typically study across four Terms a year.
Increased success
Since the Southern Cross Model was implemented, our students have achieved higher grades than ever before.
Immersive learning
Focus on just two units each Term for an immersive study experience. Learn more, quickly, in workshops and tutorials.
Greater completion
More students complete their units successfully in the Southern Cross Model. It’s a better, and more enjoyable way to learn.
You’re in control
The Southern Cross Model works with you in juggling all your other commitments – family, work, sport, friends. It’s university for the 21st century.
“You get to focus really hard, then after that you can relax. That’s the reward at the end of each subject – a two-week break before the next term starts. You can clear your mind and come back with new energy.”
Davi Martins Algranti, Bachelor of Business and Enterprise student.
Cost of living
Southern Cross University students may benefit from the reduced cost of living compared to Australian capital cities. Use the QR code for a general weekly guide in Australian dollars for a single student living near the Gold Coast or Lismore campuses.
Find out more about the cost of living
Gold Coast
Live, surf and study on the Gold Coast
Semester program:
Term 1 and Term 2 March – June
Term 3 and Term 4 July – October
Term 4 and Term 5 September – December
Undergraduate and Postgraduate
Summer Term program:
Term 3 July – August
*Cost and conversion to EUR is indicative only and subject to change.
Subject areas
Business
Accounting
Business and Data Analytics
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Finance
International
Business Marketing
Tourism and Event Management
Arts and Education
Cultural Studies
Education
History
Sociology
Writing
Information
Technology
Big Data Technologies
Digital Interaction and the User Experience
Networks and Cybersecurity
Software
Development
Health
Biomedical
Science
Counselling
Sport and Exercise Science
Lifestyle Medicine
Mental Health
Medical
Laboratory Science
Naturopathic Medicine
Nursing
Occupational
Therapy
Osteopathy
Physiotherapy
Psychology
Social Work and Community Welfare
Engineering
Civil Mechanical
Lismore
Explore the Northern Rivers
Semester program:
Term 1 and Term 2 March – June
Term 3 and Term 4 July – October
*Cost and conversion to EUR is indicative only and subject to change. Undergraduate and Postgraduate
9209103 3 units (22.5 ECTS)
9209104 4 units (30 ECTS)
Summer Term program:
$6,930 AUD (approx. €3,850)
$9,240 AUD (approx. €5,140)
Term 3 July – August
Subject areas
STEM
Applied Chemistry
Biology
Earth and Environmental
Health
Biomedical Science
Counselling
Community Welfare
Exercise Science
Lifestyle Medicine
Indigenous studies
Indigenous Knowledge
Indigenous Worldviews
Science
Marine Science
Regenerative Agriculture
Naturopathic Medicine
Nursing
Physiotherapy
Psychology
Social Work
Friends of the Koala
Gain hands-on experience alongside your study by volunteering at the Koala Hospital on campus.
Friends of the Koala is the lead koala conservation group in Australia, and the only organisation in the world that focuses on all aspects of koala conservation. With over 550 members, 239 active volunteers and 9 staff members, they rescue, treat, rehabilitate and release koalas, protect and enhance habitat, initiate and execute koala health research projects, engage and educate the community and advocate on behalf of koalas at a local, state and national level.
surfOptional camp
Accommodation
At the Northern Rivers and Coffs Harbour, you can enjoy quality on-campus accommodation just minutes from your classes, while the Gold Coast offers a range of private accommodation.
On-Campus
Lismore and Coffs Harbour offer on-campus accommodation.
Gold Coast-based students live off-campus in community (see below for off-campus accommodation options).
Facilities at each college include internet access and on-site laundries, indoor and outdoor entertainment areas and movie facilities. Weekly room rental starts from $240 (in 2026).
Unilodge at Coffs Harbour provides modern, fully furnished four-bedroom apartments with wireless internet access, laundry facilities, and a recreation lounge for group gatherings and organised social events. Weekly room rental starts from $240 (in 2026).
For more details, please visit: scu.edu.au/accommodation
Off-Campus
Check out Unistays for a range of off-campus accommodation in the local area: unistays.scu.edu.au
Local real estate agents also list private rentals.
For homestay options, check out Australian Homestay Network: homestaynetwork.org
Scan the code visit unistays.scu.edu.au
Scan the code visit homestaynetwork.org
Academic English Pathways
Learn English in Australia
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
Duration 5 to 50 weeks
Starts See table below
Location Gold Coast
$460 per week for 15 weeks or less
2025 Tuition fees
$420 per week for 16 weeks or more
$270 enrolment fee (non-refundable)
CRICOS 019864G
Admission requirements: Students will be assigned to an appropriate English language level based on proficiency scores (e.g. SCU College English Language Test, IELTS) presented on application.
English for Academic Purposes (EAP) prepares students for study at Southern Cross University. EAP builds on existing English language abilities in reading, writing, speaking and listening. It then develops students’ academic and digital literacy practices, including: researching, referencing, note taking, using the Southern Cross University Learning Management System and giving presentations. The length of EAP studies will depend on a student’s English language level at application. Successful completion of EAP provides direct entry to a range of Southern Cross University degrees. Homestay is strongly recommended for students studying EAP, please scan the QR code for more information for more information.
EAP start dates
General English
Duration 4 to 50 weeks
Starts Monday of any teaching week
Location Gold Coast
$460 per week for 15 weeks or less
2025 Tuition fees
$420 per week for 16 weeks or more
$270 enrolment fee (non-refundable)
CRICOS 019864G
Admission requirements: Students will be assigned to an appropriate English language level based on proficiency scores (e.g. SCU College English Language Test, IELTS) presented on application. The student’s proficiency is monitored to determine progress.
General English helps students develop their English speaking, listening, reading and writing skills with a focus on communicative English. Students will have the opportunity to develop their language skills as well as strategies for learning and using English in a range of contexts (e.g. work, holidays). Classes may be mixedlevel ability. Homestay is strongly recommended for students studying General English, please scan the QR code for more information for more information.
How to apply
Admission Requirements
Successfully completed a year of study at a Higher Education Institution with GPA of 2.5 out of 4, or 60%, or equivalent; and English language comparable to Academic IELTS 6.0 with no bands less than 5.5.
Step 1. Start your application
Scan the code to apply
Complete the International Application for Admission form with all supporting documents:
• Original or Certified Copy of academic transcripts, with grading system
• English language test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
• Colour copy of your valid passport
• You must sign the application form in ink (digital and electronic signatures are not accepted)
Step 2. Assessment
Successful applications receive an International Offer Package (Offer) including:
• Offer
• Information for Accepting Your Offer
• Offer Acceptance Agreement.
Step 3. Review
1. Review the Offer to make sure all information is correct and submit extra documents if requested. Once conditions are met, send the signed Offer Acceptance Agreement before the Offer Lapse Date.
2. Pay the ‘fee payable on acceptance’ amount on the Offer once Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) conditions.
3. Once all documents are received and conditions are met, Southern Cross University will issue an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCOE) so you can apply for an Australian visa.
Scan the code to choose your program
Arriving in Australia
Getting to Australia
Make sure you know how to get to the campus before you leave as public transport in regional areas is limited.
scu.edu.au/international/arrive
Accommodation
Review short-term and longterm accommodation options before you leave.
scu.edu.au/accommodation
Orientation
Orientation week is compulsory and full of essential information. Bring your passport as identification.
scu.edu.au/orientation
Contact
studyabroad@scu.edu.au scu.edu.au/studyabroad
T: +61 2 6620 3876
southern-cross-university scu_australia southerncrossuniversity southerncrossuni uniscu southerncrossuniversity southerncrossuniversity
2026 Key Dates
Term 1
Orientation: 2 – 6 March
Teaching starts: 9 March
Teaching ends: 17 April
Assessment and grading week: 20 - 24 April
Grade publication: 29 April
Term 2
Teaching starts: 4 May
(5 May in Gold Coast)
Teaching ends: 12 June
Assessment and grading week: 15 – 19 June
Grade publication: 24 June
Term 3
Orientation: 29 June – 3 July
Teaching starts: 6 July
Teaching ends: 14 August
Assessment and grading week: 17 – 21 August
Grade publication: 26 August
Term 4
Orientation: 24 - 28 August
Teaching starts: 31 August
Teaching ends: 9 October
Assessment and grading week: 12 – 16 October
Grade publication: 21 October
Term 5
Orientation: 19 – 23 October
Teaching starts: 26 October
Teaching ends: 4 December
Assessment and grading week: 7 – 11 December
Grade publication: 16 December