Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising (CRICOS course code 0100776) is a Diploma delivered by Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Limited over 2 years. This course is registered on the CRICOS register (provider code 00898G) and is designed for international students seeking a pathway into the Australian fashion industry. As a Diploma (AQF Level 5), it provides foundational knowledge and practical skills in fashion design, merchandising, and production. Holmes Commercial Colleges, operating under the brand Holmes Institute, is a private CRICOS-registered provider with a campus in Melbourne's central business district. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Diploma is one of many options for students pursuing creative arts in Victoria. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you have accurate, up-to-date information to plan your studies.
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This course belongs to the field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 1005 - Graphic and Design Studies (100505 - Fashion Design). At the Diploma level, students typically develop skills in garment construction, pattern making, fashion illustration, textile selection, and understanding fashion trends. They also learn about merchandising, retail management, and supply chain processes within the fashion industry. The curriculum balances creative design with business acumen, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in fashion design, production coordination, or visual merchandising. While specific subject offerings are determined by the provider, the AQF Level 5 qualification ensures a comprehensive introduction to the fashion sector, including both theoretical concepts and hands-on projects. Graduates may also continue studies at an advanced diploma or bachelor degree level.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The language of instruction is English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The course is a single qualification (Diploma) with no mandatory work component. Students should note that the duration includes scheduled breaks, and actual study periods may vary depending on the academic calendar. Holmes Commercial Colleges may offer multiple intake dates; always confirm the course schedule directly with the provider.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$36,000, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. The estimated total cost is therefore A$36,000. Please note: these fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. As a guide, international students in Melbourne should budget approximately A$600–$900 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, though this varies by lifestyle. Always visit the Holmes Commercial Colleges website (www.holmesinstitute.edu.au) for the most current fee schedule and fee policies.
Entry requirements are set by Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Limited and are not centrally prescribed. Typically, for a Diploma level course, you need to have completed Year 12 (or equivalent) in your home country. The English language requirement is generally IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent recognised English test). Some providers may also require a portfolio or prior study in a related field. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the direct entry requirements – check with the provider. HeadStart Academy recommends that you confirm specific entry criteria directly with Holmes Commercial Colleges before applying.
This course has no mandated work component. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work is voluntary and not a requirement of the course.
This course is delivered at the Melbourne campus of Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Limited, located in the central business district of Victoria's capital. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering creative arts courses. The city is known for its vibrant fashion scene, laneway culture, and strong public transport network. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent for a share house averaging $200–$350. The campus is well-connected by trams, trains, and buses, making it accessible for students living in suburbs like Carlton, Fitzroy, or Southbank.
International students enrolled in this course will need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Holmes Commercial Colleges, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year from 1 July 2026), and OSHC for the duration of your stay. As of 2026, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during holidays. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for detailed visa advice, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs website. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student in Australia.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising at Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Limited:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's provider directory to verify that Holmes Commercial Colleges (CRICOS 00898G) is registered and offering the course (CRICOS 0100776). Check the field (Creative Arts), level (Diploma), and location (Melbourne).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Contact Holmes Commercial Colleges via their website (www.holmesinstitute.edu.au) or admissions office. Submit required documents: academic transcripts, English language test results (IELTS 5.5-6.0), passport copy, and any portfolio if requested. Meet application deadlines for your preferred intake.
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare GTE statement, financial evidence, and OSHC. Your visa outcome depends on meeting all requirements.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong fashion culture and diverse creative industries. The city hosts numerous fashion events, including Melbourne Fashion Week, and has a thriving retail sector. For international students, Melbourne offers a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a lower cost of living than Sydney. However, competition for part-time work can be high, and the weather is variable. Consider your personal preferences for city size, climate, and lifestyle. If you value a dynamic urban setting with a strong arts scene, Melbourne could be an ideal choice for studying fashion design.
Ready to apply? Check the exact entry requirements and intake dates on the Holmes Institute website, then follow our three-step application guide above.
View the full Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Limited profile →
Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Limited. 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.