The Sydney Institute of Business and Technology (SIBT) is a well-established pathway college that helps students transition into undergraduate degrees at Australian universities, especially at Western Sydney University and other partner institutions.
Location: Sydney, New South Wales (Macquarie Park area)
Type: Private pathway provider (part of Navitas Group)
Website: www.sibt.nsw.edu.au
SIBT specializes in providing:
Foundation Programs
Diploma Programs
Pre-University Pathways
These programs lead directly into second-year university degrees, saving time and helping students adapt to Australian academic systems.
All diplomas are equivalent to Year 1 of a Bachelor's degree and allow entry into Year 2 at partner universities.
Diploma Pathways:
Business Administration
Commerce
Communication
Information Technology
Engineering
Media and Arts
International Business
Foundation Studies Program:
For students who do not meet direct entry requirements for the diploma.
No ATAR required for entry (helpful for international students)
Flexible entry with multiple intakes per year
Small class sizes and academic support
Opportunity to enter directly into Year 2 of a university degree
Located on a modern city campus in Sydney (Navitas Sydney Campus)
March
July
October
Visa assistance and orientation
Academic and career support
English language preparation
Access to student advisors and counseling
Graduates of SIBT may enter second-year Bachelor programs at:
Western Sydney University (Sydney City Campus)
Other Navitas partner institutions across Australia
Located at Level 4, 255 Elizabeth Street, Sydney
Modern classrooms, computer labs, library access, student lounge
Central location – close to shops, public transport, and accommodation
SIBT offers two main types of programs:
Diploma Programs – Equivalent to Year 1 of a university Bachelor’s degree
Foundation Studies Program – Prepares students who don’t meet direct entry requirements for a diploma
Each diploma can lead to second-year entry into a related Bachelor’s degree at a partner university (e.g., Western Sydney University – Sydney City Campus).
Diploma Program |
Progression Pathway Examples |
|---|---|
|
Diploma of Business Administration |
Bachelor of Business, Marketing, Management |
|
Diploma of Commerce |
Bachelor of Commerce, Finance, Accounting |
|
Diploma of Communication |
Bachelor of Communication, Media, Public Relations |
|
Diploma of Information Technology |
Bachelor of IT, Computer Science, Cybersecurity |
|
Diploma of Engineering |
Bachelor of Engineering (Civil, Electrical, etc.) |
|
Diploma of International Business |
Bachelor of Business (International Business major) |
|
Diploma of Media and Arts |
Bachelor of Arts, Digital Media, Film & TV |
For students who do not meet academic or English requirements for direct entry into a diploma
Duration: 8 to 12 months
Leads into SIBT diploma programs
Subjects include: Academic English, Maths, Computing, Business, Communication
March
July
October
Diploma Entry: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent)
Foundation Entry: Completion of Year 11 or equivalent
English Requirements:
IELTS 5.5 (Diploma)
IELTS 5.0 (Foundation)
or equivalent TOEFL/PTE scores
Diploma Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Diploma of Business Administration |
8–12 months |
~$15,000 – $16,000 |
|
Diploma of Commerce |
8–12 months |
~$15,000 – $16,000 |
|
Diploma of Communication |
8–12 months |
~$15,000 – $16,000 |
|
Diploma of Information Technology |
8–12 months |
~$15,000 – $16,000 |
|
Diploma of Engineering |
8–12 months |
~$16,000 – $17,000 |
|
Diploma of International Business |
8–12 months |
~$15,000 – $16,000 |
|
Diploma of Media and Arts |
8–12 months |
~$15,000 – $16,000S |
The Sydney Institute of Business and Technology (SIBT) is a popular choice among international students looking for a supportive, flexible, and career-focused pathway into Australian universities—particularly Western Sydney University. Located in the heart of Sydney, SIBT helps students transition smoothly into undergraduate study, even if they don’t meet the standard academic or English entry requirements.
SIBT is designed to support international learners from the start. Students can begin with a Foundation Program or go directly into a Diploma, which is equivalent to Year 1 of a Bachelor’s degree. Once completed, students can progress straight into Year 2 of a degree at a partner university.
Programs are practical, accessible, and focused on student success. Fields include Business, IT, Communication, Engineering, Media, and more.
Unlike many Australian universities, SIBT does not require an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank), which makes it ideal for students from different educational systems worldwide. As long as you meet the academic and English language entry requirements, you can start your journey toward a Bachelor’s degree.
SIBT provides outstanding academic and personal support, including:
Orientation programs for new students
Study skills workshops and academic support
Help with adjusting to Australian education
1-on-1 tutoring and access to student advisors
Career advice and job-seeking workshops
These services are designed to help international students thrive both academically and personally.
Located on Elizabeth Street, the SIBT campus is right in the Sydney CBD, close to everything—transport, shopping, entertainment, and accommodation. Living in Sydney gives you access to world-class amenities, a multicultural lifestyle, and work opportunities during and after study.
International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods on a student visa, which helps cover living costs.
Tuition fees for international students range between USD $15,000 to $17,000 per year, depending on the program. Living expenses in Sydney typically range from USD $1,200 to $1,800 per month, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.
After completing a diploma at SIBT, you can enter Year 2 of a Bachelor’s degree at:
Western Sydney University – Sydney City Campus
Other Australian universities through credit transfers (subject to course and grades)
This pathway saves time and gives international students the confidence to succeed at university level.
Start by selecting the program that suits your academic level and goals:
Foundation Studies Program (if you don’t meet diploma entry requirements)
Diploma Programs (equivalent to Year 1 of a university degree)
Popular study areas include:
Business
Commerce
Communication
Information Technology
Engineering
Media & Arts
Academic Requirements:
For Diploma Programs: Completion of high school (Year 12 or equivalent)
For Foundation Program: Completion of Year 11 (or equivalent)
English Language Requirements:
Diploma: IELTS 5.5 overall (no band less than 5.0), or equivalent TOEFL/PTE score
Foundation: IELTS 5.0 overall (no band less than 4.5)
If you don’t meet the English requirement, you can take a Navitas English course first.
You’ll need:
Valid passport copy
Academic transcripts (translated into English if needed)
English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.)
Program application form (online or PDF)
Statement of Purpose (if requested)
You can apply in two ways:
Online via SIBT website: www.sibt.nsw.edu.au
Through an authorized education agent in your country
There is usually no application fee for international students.
If your application is successful, SIBT will send you a Letter of Offer outlining:
Program details
Fees
Conditions (if any)
Sign and return the Written Agreement
Pay the first semester tuition fee
Meet any additional conditions (like submitting final results)
Once payment is confirmed, SIBT will issue a CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment).
This document is required to apply for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500).
Apply for your visa through the Australian immigration website using your CoE.
Make sure to:
Include your GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statement
Provide financial documents and health insurance (OSHC)
Book accommodation in Sydney
Attend orientation week
Get your student ID and join campus activities!
SIBT offers three main intakes per year, giving students the flexibility to start their studies when it suits them best.
March Intake
July Intake
October Intake
These intake periods apply to both Diploma and Foundation Studies programs. Applying early is recommended to allow time for visa processing, travel, and accommodation planning.
For Diploma Programs (equivalent to Year 1 of a Bachelor’s degree):
Completion of Year 12 (Australian equivalent)
For international students, this can include:
CBSE/ISC/State Boards (India)
A-Levels, IB, or equivalent qualifications
U.S. High School Diploma
Other national high school certificates (subject to assessment)
For Foundation Studies Program:
Completion of Year 11 or equivalent
Suitable for students who don’t meet direct entry to the diploma program
Diploma Programs:
IELTS: 5.5 overall (minimum 5.0 in each band)
TOEFL iBT: 46
PTE Academic: 42
Cambridge English: 162
Foundation Program:
IELTS: 5.0 overall (minimum 4.5 in each band)
TOEFL iBT: 35
PTE Academic: 36
If you do not meet the English requirements, you can take an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course with a Navitas English partner school.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Value |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
SIBT Academic Merit Scholarship |
High-performing international students (based on academic results) |
Up to AUD $3,000 tuition fee reduction |
Diploma and Foundation Programs |
|
Early Acceptance Scholarship |
Offered to students who accept and pay early |
AUD $1,000 – $2,000 tuition discount |
All SIBT programs |
|
Navitas Family Bursary |
Available to students who have family members studying at any Navitas institution |
10% tuition fee discount (on one program) |
Diploma and Foundation Programs |
|
Navitas Academic Merit Scholarship |
Top-performing students during SIBT study (based on GPA) |
50% tuition fee for one program |
For continuing SIBT students |
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
255 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia (Central CBD) |
|
Campus Features |
- Modern classrooms and computer labs |
|
Transport Access |
- Close to Museum Station and major bus routes |
|
On-Campus Accommodation |
Not available (SIBT does not have its own student housing) |
|
Off-Campus Accommodation Options |
Homestays |
|
Estimated Weekly Cost (AUD) |
AUD $250 – $500/week (depends on location & type) |
|
Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
USD $660 – $1,320/month (1 AUD ≈ 0.66 USD) |
|
Accommodation Support |
- SIBT provides guidance on finding housing through trusted platforms and homestay providers |
Urbanest Sydney Central – fully furnished studios and shared rooms
Scape Sydney – all-inclusive student apartments near the city
Unilodge – budget-friendly and student-centered housing
Australian Homestay Network (AHN) – live with a local family, meals included
Student life at SIBT is vibrant, welcoming, and designed to make your transition into Australian education smooth and enjoyable—especially if you’re coming from overseas or just getting started with tertiary study.
SIBT has a multicultural student body, with students from over 30 different countries. Whether you're from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, or Latin America, you’ll find yourself in a welcoming environment where everyone is adjusting and growing together. The small class sizes also mean you won’t feel lost in the crowd—teachers know your name and offer personal support.
Classes at SIBT are interactive and practical, not just lecture-based. The college focuses on helping you build academic skills like essay writing, presentations, and critical thinking—things that will help you succeed in university later on. There's also access to free tutoring, learning support workshops, and English language assistance if needed.
The campus is located on Elizabeth Street in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, so you’re right in the action. Cafes, shopping, transport, museums, and nightlife are all nearby. When class ends, you can hop on a train to the beach, go exploring with friends, or just enjoy the buzz of the city.
New international students go through a comprehensive orientation program, which helps you settle into life in Australia. You’ll get help with banking, transport cards, SIM cards, finding housing, and understanding Aussie culture. Throughout the year, SIBT also runs events like:
Social mixers
Cultural celebrations
Resume and job search workshops
Mental health awareness weeks
Fun competitions and giveaways
These are great ways to meet people and feel part of the community.
As an international student on a student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. SIBT's location in the city means it’s easy to find part-time jobs in retail, hospitality, or admin. Plus, SIBT offers career support, including resume help, interview coaching, and connections to internships or casual work.
Many students say that SIBT feels like a “stepping stone” into university life—they gain confidence, skills, and friendships that help them succeed in their Bachelor's degree. It's less intimidating than going straight into a large university and more tailored to individual needs.
SIBT is a pathway education provider, meaning its main role is to help students transition into a Bachelor’s degree at a university (mainly Western Sydney University – Sydney City Campus). Because of this, SIBT does not offer formal job placements like a university or vocational institute might.
However, SIBT prepares students for future employment by offering career-focused services and skills training that benefit students as they progress through their education.
Even though formal internships or placements aren't built into the SIBT diploma programs, students receive a lot of career guidance and preparation, including:
Resume and cover letter writing workshops
Job interview coaching
Career planning sessions
Casual and part-time job search assistance
Access to student job boards and employer partnerships
These services help students find part-time work while studying or prepare for internships and job opportunities once they transfer into university.
After completing a diploma at SIBT, students typically transfer into Year 2 of a Bachelor’s degree at Western Sydney University or another partner university. These universities often do offer internships and placement opportunities in fields like:
Business
IT
Engineering
Media & Communication
So while SIBT itself doesn’t directly place students into jobs or internships, it is the first step in a pathway that leads to strong employability outcomes through university programs.
As an international student, you're allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the study period and unlimited hours during breaks. Many SIBT students find jobs in:
Retail and customer service
Hospitality (cafés, restaurants, events)
Administration and office support
Internships or freelance work in media, marketing, or IT
These jobs not only help with expenses but also boost your resume for when you finish university.
Approximately 80% – 90%
SIBT is a pathway provider, designed to help students who may not meet direct entry requirements for Australian universities.
It does not require an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank), which makes it accessible to a wide range of international students.
The entry criteria focus on:
High school completion (Year 11 or 12 equivalent)
English proficiency
The admission process is supportive and flexible, aiming to prepare students for success rather than filter them out.
Academic transcripts (Year 11 or 12 equivalent)
Valid passport
English test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE)
A completed application form
No entrance exam or interview required for most programs
SIBT – Sydney City Campus
Level 4, 255 Elizabeth Street
Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
Just a 2-minute walk from Museum Station
Close to major bus routes and train lines
Surrounded by shops, restaurants, cafes, and student-friendly services
Near key city landmarks like Hyde Park, Town Hall, and Pitt Street Mall
Easily accessible from student accommodation and homestays around Sydney
Urban and modern setting in a professional building
Shared facilities with Western Sydney University – Sydney City Campus
Close to potential employers, part-time job opportunities, and networking events
Great for international students who want to live and study in the heart of Sydney
