Overview
This program, through IFSA, allows you to take courses at the University of Sydney (USyd) on their Early Start/Early Depart program during the Spring Term. Students arrive early and begin their semester with a single, intensively taught course in Sydney’s summer term (January-February), then take three courses during Semester 1. These are chosen from a curated list of courses that either do not have exams or from a special list of business units where arrangements have been made for students to take their exams early.
Academics
Founded in 1850, the University of Sydney (USyd) is Australia's first university. Modeled after Oxford University, it is considered one of Australia’s most prestigious universities. Subjects range from Economics, Gender and Cultural Studies, Film Studies, Political Science, and more. The curated list of courses for the Early Start/Early Depart program, along with more information, can be found on IFSA's external program webpage.
You should note that the Early Start/Early Depart program during the Spring Term is growing increasingly popular, as it more closely aligns with the U.S. semester schedule. The Early Start/Early Depart Spring Term has an earlier application deadline than the standard University of Sydney program.
Program Features
Sydney is a beautiful, cosmopolitan city with a variety of recreational and cultural opportunities. The University of Sydney campus is in Newtown, a student-friendly neighborhood known for its café culture. The campus is also close to Sydney’s central business district. The campus is modeled after Oxford University, with beautiful quadrangles and Gothic buildings.
You will live in an off-campus apartment complex or an on-campus residential college. As a visiting student, you will have access to the University’s student union, student clubs, and social activities. IFSA will provide administrative support for your experience. They will offer academic advising, an orientation, activities, and excursions.
Eligibility
Review eligibility to ensure that you meet all Columbia requirements to study abroad.
Review the external program webpage to understand any additional program prerequisites.
Application Instructions
To apply, you must complete the two steps below. Deadlines vary and some applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Therefore, you should complete the steps below simultaneously:
- To apply for Columbia clearance (approval) to study abroad, click on "Start Your Application" on this webpage. Clearance applications are approved on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this webpage.
- To apply for program admission, complete an external application directly on the program webpage. Note that this deadline may be in advance of the Columbia clearance deadline.