Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) (CRICOS course code 0100696) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification is designed for international students seeking to undertake advanced research in a field of their choice. As part of the Mixed Field Programmes category (129999), this PhD offers flexibility across disciplines. La Trobe University, a CRICOS-registered provider (00115M) with over 50 years of experience, delivers this course across five Victorian campuses. The indicative tuition fee is A$120,000, with no mandatory non-tuition fees. Before applying, prospective students should confirm current fees and entry requirements directly with the university. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. For visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) (CRICOS course code 0100696) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 4 years. This course is classified under the Mixed Field Programmes field of education (129999) and is a high-cost research degree tailored for international students. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. La Trobe University, a public institution established in 1964, has a strong reputation for research excellence. The course is offered at five campuses across Victoria: Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Melbourne (Bundoora), Mildura, and Shepparton. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this PhD provides a pathway to advanced academic and professional careers. Students benefit from Australia's robust student visa framework (Subclass 500) and the protections of the ESOS Act.
As a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10), the Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) requires candidates to undertake original research that contributes significantly to knowledge. While the specific research topic depends on the student's field, the program typically involves coursework in research methods, a literature review, data collection and analysis, and thesis writing. Graduates develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, project management, and scholarly communication. The Mixed Field Programmes category (129999) allows for interdisciplinary approaches, making this PhD suitable for students whose research spans multiple traditional fields. La Trobe University provides supervision from leading academics, access to research facilities, and opportunities for publications and conferences.
The Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) is a full-time course with a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual or combined degree). There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to be based at one of La Trobe's campuses, though some research activities may be conducted off-site. The duration is standard for Australian doctoral programs, which typically range from 3 to 4 years of full-time study. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$120,000 for the full 4-year program, as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0. The estimated total is A$120,000. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500 and A$2,000 per year depending on the policy. Living costs vary by location: in Victoria, indicative weekly expenses are approximately A$300–A$500 for rent, A$80–A$150 for groceries, and A$30–A$60 for public transport. Fees are set by La Trobe University and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international.
Entry into the Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a master's degree (AQF Level 9) with a research component. A minimum equivalent of Australian second-class upper (2A) honours or a master's degree with a significant research thesis is expected. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (no band less than 6.0–6.5, depending on the discipline). Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English. Applicants must also submit a research proposal and secure a supervisor. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; however, La Trobe offers pre-PhD programs for international students who need to meet academic or English requirements. Always refer to the provider's website for detailed entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) is a research degree focused on independent study and thesis preparation. However, student visa (Subclass 500) holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work must not interfere with course requirements. International students should be aware that work rights are tied to the visa and cannot commence before the course start date.
La Trobe University delivers the Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) at five campuses in Victoria: - Albury-Wodonga Campus (Wodonga, VIC) - Bendigo Campus (Flora Hill, VIC) - Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus (Bundoora, VIC) - Mildura Campus (Mildura, VIC) - Shepparton Campus (Shepparton, VIC)
Victoria is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Melbourne, the state capital, has a large international student population (over 200,000) and excellent public transport. Regional campuses offer lower living costs and smaller class sizes. Each campus provides research facilities, libraries, and support services for PhD candidates.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion: demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. - Evidence of financial capacity: tuition fees, living expenses (A$21,041 per year for a single student), OSHC, and travel costs. - English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0). - OSHC for the duration of the visa.
Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during holidays. Dependants may also have work rights. All visa conditions must be met; violations can lead to visa cancellation. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Victoria offers a vibrant environment for international students, especially those pursuing a PhD. Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a diverse culture, excellent healthcare, and strong research infrastructure. The state has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, including world-class universities like La Trobe. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than regional areas: average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$300–A$500, while in regional centres like Bendigo or Mildura, it may be A$200–A$350. Public transport is reliable in Melbourne, with a myki card system; regional campuses may require a car. Victoria offers beautiful natural landscapes, from the Great Ocean Road to the Grampians, providing a balanced study-life experience. Consider your research area, supervisor availability, and lifestyle preferences when choosing a campus.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) at La Trobe University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and location (Victoria). Verify CRICOS registration (00115M) and course details (0100696). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores, research proposal, and referee reports. Check application deadlines (typically two intakes per year) and submit via La Trobe's online portal. Some disciplines may require an interview. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once admitted, La Trobe will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Processing times vary, so apply early.
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Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). 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.