Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning (CRICOS course code 0100525) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission (TAFE NSW) over 1 year. This program, classified under Management and Commerce (Field 081105 - Investment and Securities), prepares students for roles in financial planning and investment advisory. With an indicative total cost of A$24,160 and a mandatory work component of 288 hours, this course offers practical, industry-relevant training. Delivered at TAFE NSW Ultimo in Sydney, it provides access to one of Australia's largest vocational education networks. All institutions on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you study with a government-approved provider. Whether you're aiming to become a financial planner or advance your career, this graduate diploma combines theoretical knowledge with real-world experience in Australia's financial hub.
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The Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning (CRICOS 0100525) is a level 8 qualification offered by Technical and Further Education Commission (CRICOS 00591E), a government provider. This course spans 52 weeks and is delivered in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and is not a VET course. As a graduate diploma, it builds on prior undergraduate study and provides specialised knowledge in financial planning, investment strategies, and securities. The course includes a compulsory work component of 24 weeks at 12 hours per week (288 total hours), allowing students to gain hands-on experience in Australian financial institutions. With an indicative tuition fee of A$23,160 and non-tuition fees of A$1,000, the estimated total is A$24,160. Note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are additional. Always confirm current fees directly with TAFE NSW via their international website.
This graduate diploma falls under the field of Investment and Securities (081105). Students typically explore advanced topics in financial planning, including wealth management, risk assessment, retirement planning, taxation strategies, and ethical decision-making. The curriculum emphasises Australian regulatory frameworks such as the Corporations Act and ASIC guidelines. Graduates develop skills to advise clients on investment portfolios, superannuation, and insurance. While specific subjects are set by the provider, courses at this level often include case studies, financial modelling, and compliance training. The work component further integrates classroom learning with industry placement, providing practical exposure to financial advisory roles. This combination prepares students for professional certification pathways, such as becoming a Financial Adviser in Australia.
The program is scheduled for 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). Full-time study is typically required to maintain visa compliance. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification with no foundation or dual components. Students should expect a mix of lectures, tutorials, and self-directed study. The provider may offer flexible delivery options, but the CRICOS registration confirms a standard full-time mode. As an international student, you must maintain satisfactory course progress to meet visa conditions. The 52-week duration also includes scheduled breaks, during which students can work unlimited hours (subject to visa conditions).
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning is A$23,160, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, totalling an estimated A$24,160. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Technical and Further Education Commission. Fees are subject to change, so always verify with the provider before applying. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders, and living expenses. For 2026, the Australian Government suggests annual living costs of approximately A$21,041 for a single student. The student visa application fee (Subclass 500) is currently A$1,600. Get the latest fee information at TAFE NSW International.
To enter the Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning, international students typically need an IELTS score between 5.5 and 6.0 overall (or equivalent). This is a guideline; actual requirements are set by TAFE NSW. As a graduate diploma, prior completion of a bachelor's degree or equivalent is expected. Students without a relevant background may be required to complete bridging or pathway programs. TAFE NSW offers pathway options through certificate or diploma courses. Meeting minimum English and academic requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are limited. Always check the provider's entry criteria and consult their international admissions team. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; for visa eligibility, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 24 weeks, 12 hours per week (approximately 288 total hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) is designed to provide practical experience in the financial planning industry. Activities may include industry placement, internships, or simulated workplace projects. The WIL component allows students to apply financial planning concepts in real Australian business environments, build professional networks, and enhance employability. It also helps students meet professional accreditation requirements. The provider ensures that placements are organised in compliance with visa work conditions. Note that student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but the work component is part of the course and not additional paid employment.
The Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning is delivered at TAFE NSW Ultimo, located in ULTIMO, NSW (postcode 2007). Ultimo is a suburb near Sydney's central business district (CBD), making it highly accessible via public transport including trains, buses, and light rail. Sydney has the largest number of CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, with over 350 offering more than 6,000 courses to international students. The city's vibrant financial district provides ample networking and employment opportunities. Living costs in Sydney are estimated at A$500–700 per week for rent, with additional expenses for groceries and transport. The campus is close to major amenities, libraries, and student support services.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs, and a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from TAFE NSW. As a student visa holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain enrolment and satisfactory course progress. OSHC is mandatory and covers medical treatment but not all services. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights, including access to refunds and complaint processes. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
<strong>Step 1:</strong> Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Management and Commerce), and location (NSW). Confirm that Technical and Further Education Commission is CRICOS-registered (00591E).<br><strong>Step 2:</strong> Apply directly to TAFE NSW International. Check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, English test results, and any required documents. Observe application deadlines – typically several months before course start.<br><strong>Step 3:</strong> After acceptance, receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use the CoE to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a global financial hub, home to major banks, investment firms, and financial planning businesses. With over 350 CRICOS providers, you'll have a diverse student community. The city offers world-class public transport, multicultural experiences, and stunning beaches. However, living costs are high – rent averages A$500–700/week for a one-bedroom apartment in the inner city. If you prefer a lower cost of living, consider regional NSW providers. But for networking and practical work placements, Sydney's Ultimo campus puts you in the heart of the action. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences before applying.
Ready to advance your career in financial planning? Explore the Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning at TAFE NSW and check your eligibility on HeadStart Academy. Remember, all listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and government oversight. Start your application today!
View the full Technical and Further Education Commission profile →
Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.