Gap Year Program in Sydney, Australia
Jump start your undergraduate life by experiencing living and studying abroad in Sydney! While many college study abroad programs don’t accept first year students, TEAN’s unique Gap Year Program in Sydney, Australia offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to spend your freshman year abroad at the prestigious University of Sydney (USyd) with plenty of support from TEAN through the entire experience – from helping you figure out your schedule to organizing free cultural and group activities during your stay! TEAN has been running programs in Sydney since 1997 and our experienced local staff will guide you every step of the way to make the most of this incredible city while also starting your academic career.
Overview
Spend five months studying at the University of Sydney, selecting four courses from more than 70 options ranging from Fine Arts to Business (see the course list below!) earning credit that can be transferred to a U.S. institution
Live in Sydney, the largest and oldest city in Australia, with a magnificent coastline, ideal climate, beautiful beaches and a vibrant cultural scene - there’s always something new to discover!
Take part in a fun, free Sydney Orientation along with ongoing cultural events and catch-ups with other TEAN students and staff
Benefit from access to TEAN’s Sydney-based Resident Director and other local staff for continued support throughout the semester
Live in comfortable furnished student apartments located just a short walk from campus and with easy access to explore the rest of the city
Program Details
ORIENTATION
Hit the ground running with our Sydney-based Orientation Program. Held over two days, Orientation combines helpful academic sessions with fun cultural experiences with each activity designed to help students ease into their time in Australia. Our historical walking tour of Sydney not only introduces you to the city’s icons, but provides you with the tools needed to navigate the city, while a celebratory dinner cruise in Sydney Harbour lets you take in the iconic Opera House from the best angle.
HOUSING
Students attending the University of Sydney live in modern student apartments located just a 10-minute walk from campus.
TEAN STAFF
Our team works closely with you throughout the entire study abroad experience. Our programs staff will help guide you through the application process to go abroad, then upon arrival in Australia, you will meet our team who will provide assistance during your time in-country. Throughout your semester you will meet with TEAN staff for informal discussions and excursions. Our staff is readily available and able to assist you with any academic, social, or cultural questions or issues that you may face during your time abroad.
Meet the TeamAcademic Program
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY
- Founded in 1850, the University of Sydney is consistently ranked in the top three universities in Australia and in the top 50 universities in the world.
- The university has 21 subjects areas ranked in the top 40 universities in the world, including liberal arts and humanities ranked 14th globally. With life sciences, social sciences and management all ranked 20th in the world – and second in Australia – this is truly a prestigious university. The Business School is AACSB accredited.
- The high rankings from QS World University subject rankings don’t just extend to the academics, the university campus is ranked as 9th most beautiful in the world by a recent Huffington Post article. The spacious campus boasts a mix of colonial sandstone buildings and modern architecture set in grassy courtyards and is adjacent to leafy Victoria Park.
- The campus is located on the edge of Sydney’s Central Business District, surrounded by several unique inner-city neighborhoods known for their quirky artistic culture and café scenes.
- With an enrollment of more than 50,000, including 10,000 international students from more than 145 countries, the University of Sydney provides a bustling and multicultural experience.
- The university has also produced six Australian prime ministers, two Nobel laureates, 3 astronauts, 110 Rhodes scholars and a collection of internationally renowned authors, academics, artists, cultural leaders, world business leaders and public figures.
LOCATION
The University of Sydney is a traditional campus, located on the edge of Sydney’s Central Business District. Visit the google map link below to see the campus location.
View MapCourses
Sydney Gap Program Courses
Gap Year students choose 1 course from the SUMMER session of the program and three courses from the SEMESTER 1 session of the program.
The Sydney Summer session is taught over 5 weeks during the Australian summer (January-February). The Semester 1 session is taught over 3 months during the regular semester (March-May). Four courses at The University of Sydney usually transfers as 15-16 U.S. semester credits.
STUDENTS SELECT ONE COURSE FROM THIS LIST (SUMMER SESSION)*:
ANHS1602 Greek and Roman Myth
ANTH1001 Cultural Difference: An Introduction
CHEM1111 Chemistry 1A
CIVL1802 Statics
ECON1001 Introductory Microeconomics
ECOP1001 Economics as a Social Science
EDGU1003 Diet and Nutrition for Health and Sport
EDGU2000 Teaching English Internationally 1
EDUF3034 Australian Theatre, Film and Learning
ENGG1801 Engineering Computing
ENGG1802 Engineering Mechanics
ENGL1011 Introduction to Film Studies
FRNC1601 Introductory French 1
GCST1601 Introduction to Cultural Studies
HSTY1089 Australia: Conflict and Transformation
HPSC1000 Bioethics
INFS1000 Digital Business Innovation
MATH1002 Linear Algebra
MATH1005 Statistical Thinking with Data
MATH1011 Applications of Calculus
MATH1013 Mathematical Modelling
MATH1014 Introduction to Linear Algebra
MATH1021 Calculus Of One Variable
MATH1023 Multivariable Calculus and Modelling
MATH1115 Interrogating Data
MKTG1001 Marketing Principles
PSYC1001 Psychology 1001
PSYC1002 Psychology 1002
SCLG1001 Introduction to Sociology 1
SCLG1002 Introduction to Sociology 2
WRIT1001 Writing and Rhetoric: Academic Essays
STUDENTS SELECT THREE COURSES FROM THIS LIST (SEMESTER ONE)*:
IBUS1102 Cross-Cultural Management
WORK1003 Foundations of Work and Employment
ANTH1001 Cultural Difference: An Introduction
ARBC1611 Introductory Arabic 1A
ARBC1651 Introduction to Arab Cultures
ARCO1000 Ancient People: Hunters and Farmers
ARHT1001 Style and Substance: Introducing Art History
ASNS1101 Introduction to Chinese Civilisation
ASNS1200 Tibet and Central Asia: Nomads and Myths
CADR1005 Contemporary Drawing (Life)
CADR1007 Contemporary Drawing (Digital)
CAEL1002 Contemporary Drawing: Life
CAEL2039 Screen Arts: an Introduction
CAEL2042 Photography and the Darkroom
CHNS1101 Chinese 1A (For Beginners)
ECOP1001 Economics as a Social Science
EDGU1001 Creativity, Youth Culture and the Arts
EDGU1003 Diet and Nutrition for Health and Sport
EDGU1004 Young People, Sex and Sexual Health
EDUF1018 Education, Teachers and Teaching
EDUF3034 Australian Theatre, Film and Learning
EDUH4052 Learning in Outdoor Education
EDUH4058 Sport and Learning in Australian Culture
EDUP1002 English, Literacy and Learning
SCWK1001 Social Justice Practice
ENGL1011 Introduction to Film Studies
ENGL1026 Constructing the Fictive Self
EUST1001 European Identity in the 21st Century
FRNC1601 Introductory French 1
GCST1601 Introduction to Cultural Studies
GCST1602 Introduction to Gender Studies
HSTY1004 History Workshop: Premodern
HSTY1005 History Workshop: Modern/Contemporary
ICLS1001 World Literatures in Translation
INDG1001 Introduction to Indigenous Cultures
INMS1101 Indonesian 1A
ITLN1611 Italian 1
LNGS1001 Structure of Language
PRFM1601 Making Theatre: Process and Collaboration
RLST1002 Religion: Texts, Life and Tradition
SANS1001 Sanskrit Introductory 1
SPAN1621 Spanish Level 1
SPAN2611 Spanish Level 3
USSC1604 Sex, Race and Rock: US Culture
WRIT1000 Introduction to Academic Writing
WRIT1001 Writing and Rhetoric: Academic Essays
WRIT1002 Writing and Rhetoric: Argumentation
MCGY1030 This is Music
MUSC1503 Fundamentals of Music 1
MUSC1507 Sounds, Screens, Speakers: Music & Media
ENGG1000 History and Philosophy of Engineering
ENGG1860 Project Initiation and Scope
ENGG1863 Effective Project Communication
HPSC1000 Bioethics
*2019 course list. Courses offerings may vary from year to year.
Eligibility
Eligibility
- Evidence of high school qualification
- 23 ACT score OR 1140 out of 1600 for SAT
Events & Excursions
TEAN Activities & Excursions
Our local staff arrange various activities during the program designed to help immerse you in the local culture. These activities are included in your program. Below are examples of previous activities arranged for students, activities can change from year to year.
Your TEAN Sydney staff also host a catch-up event at least once every two weeks with the Gap Year group – such as a meetup at a local coffee shop (free cake!) or pizza evenings to check in with the group.
In addition to the TEAN-organized events, to make sure you don’t miss out on any opportunities, our local staff send out frequent emails letting you know what is happening in Sydney. Ranging from community events to music festivals, we tap you into the local culture right from the start.
RUGBY LEAGUE MATCH
In Australia, each state has a sport that dominates and in New South Wales, rugby is the obvious favorite!Get a crash course in the rules from your TEAN staff then join the local crowds to watch an exciting game.
LEARN TO SURF
Australians love the beach. Being an island nation with beautiful beaches, and 85% of the population living within an hour of a beach, it’s not surprising that surfing is the favorite pastime of Aussie beachgoers. We introduce you to this sport early on in the program with a surfing lesson.
Program Dates
APPLICATION DEADLINE
TEAN has a rolling admissions process. We recommend submitting your application anytime from March the year before your program. Late applications may be considered. Contact TEAN if the application deadline has passed.
| Spring Deadline | Oct 15 |
Spring 2022*
| Arrive in Australia | Early Jan |
| Classes Begin | Early Jan |
| Program Ends | Early June |
*These dates are tentative. Final dates will be released closer to departure.
Fees & Inclusions
Spring 2021
- Estimated tuition and program fees: $14,780*
- Estimated housing off campus): $7,490 – $9,850
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Full tuition (4 courses)
- Guaranteed, pre-arranged, off-campus housing
- Overseas health insurance, plus evacuation and repatriation insurance
- Services of local Resident Directors
- Two-day Orientation Program with meals, excursions and transportation
- Cultural events scheduled throughout the semester
- Catch up events with TEAN Sydney staff every two weeks (pizza nights, etc)
- Wireless internet access in housing
- Access to pre-arranged and affordable cell phone packages
- Extensive pre-departure counseling and information
- University and course selection advice
- Official academic transcripts from host institution
- Help with student visa preparation
- Airport pickup and reception in Sydney
- Arrival Welcome packet containing important local contact details and information
- Sydney Farewell Dinner at conclusion of program
- Host university orientation
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- International airfare ($1,800)
- Domestic airfare in U.S. ($500)
- Student visa ($450)
- Books ($365)
- Meals during the semester ($2,500)
- Airport transfer at the end of the semester ($50)
- Travel insurance ($350)
- Travel and personal expenses ($1,500 – 2,500+)
We love Sydney
Laura Carroll
Resident Director - NSW
Sydney Tip
Cockatoo Island
Take the ferry to Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbour. It has an interesting history, and you can get some great views of the city. They sometimes host special events here, such as art exhibitions, but you can just go anytime if you want to wander around and explore.
What do you do for TEAN and what is the best part of your job?
I am the New South Wales Resident Director working with students who study in Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong. The best part of my job is watching students grow throughout their study abroad experience!
What should be on every student’s bucket list for a semester in Australia?
There are so many things to pick from!! My absolute favorite thing I have done in Australia was go to Rottnest Island in Western Australia. It is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. There are no cars on the island, so you rent bikes and ride around beach hopping. There are amazing snorkeling spots, great beaches to lay out and the quokkas are the absolute cutest!
What are some must-do activities for every Sydney study abroad student?
Everyone should do the Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk. If you do that and love it, then check out the Spit to Manly Coastal Walk. It’s a bit longer but so beautiful! You can also take the ferry to Manly Beach then, once you get to Manly Beach, walk up to Shelly Beach and go snorkeling. I also recommend heading to Newtown for some of the best vegan food around as well as great shopping and nightlife, wandering through Sydney’s amazing markets, like theGlebe and Marrickville markets, and seeing if there are any shows or concerts you’re interested in while you’re in Sydney – there are some really cool old theaters here!
Besides Sydney, what are some of your favorite places in Asia Pacific?
I loved Thailand for its culture – the people were so lovely, the food was amazing and seeing elephants is hard to beat! Of course, the beaches are gorgeous and I loved all the fun shopping too. I would highly recommend visiting Thailand while students are living in Australia. It’s very affordable and it’s so close!
What is the best meal (or food) you’ve had while traveling abroad?
When I was in Bali, I tried this jackfruit curry dish in Ubud. It was unbelievably delicious and the texture was amazing. This introduced me to cooking with jackfruit, which is now a weekly staple at my house. All the food in Bali was so fresh. I loved how you could buy tempe and tofu wrapped in banana leaves on the side of the road!
Leslie Johnson
Program Manager
Sydney Tip
Hidden Beaches
While Sydney has many famous beaches, take the time to explore the more hidden, much less crowded harborside beaches like Milk Beach, Redleaf, Camp Cove, all accessible by public transport. There are some really beautiful spots for you to discover.
What makes TEAN unique in your opinion?
All of the staff are so passionate about their work and everyone has either traveled, lived, worked or studied in our locations, so everyone brings so much personal experience and knowledge to the table.
What is the best part of your job?
I’ve always enjoyed working with students! A lot of the students I work with are much more confident and resourceful than I was in college. Studying abroad made a huge impact on my life and I love having the opportunity to help students make their dreams realities. It’s also wonderful to hear from students when they return!
What should be on the bucket list for those traveling to New Zealand?
I love adventure activities, so I was super excited to try skydiving, bungee jumping and zorbing (you roll down a hill in a big hamster ball!). I understand that it might not be for everyone, but hiking around the area alone is still an amazing experience. Everywhere you go is beautiful!
What is your advice to those nervous to travel abroad?
I had never been out of the country before I studied abroad, so I was definitely very nervous before going. I was also much more reserved and shy than I am now. I made it a goal to talk to a new person or try a new thing everyday and that slowly helped push me out of my comfort zone and helped me become a more confident person.
If you could participate in any one of TEAN’s programs tomorrow, where would you go?
I’ve still never been to Thailand and I think our Tourism, Ethnic Identity and Heritage in Thailand program sounds like a really interesting topic, so that’s where I’d go!