Foundation Program (CRICOS course code 0100863) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The Australian Institute of Music Limited over 1 year. This foundation pathway is designed for international students who want to build academic and English skills before progressing to higher-level study. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00665C), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The Australian Institute of Music Limited (AIM) is a private provider with campuses in Sydney and Melbourne. This course is ideal for students who need a solid foundation in mixed field programmes before moving into music, creative arts, or other disciplines. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
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Foundation Program (CRICOS course code 0100863) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The Australian Institute of Music Limited over 1 year. This course falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (129999), which covers broad foundational skills not specific to a single discipline. The full-time program runs for 52 weeks and is taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award. As a foundation studies program, it is designed to prepare students for further study, often leading into bachelor's degrees. The Australian Institute of Music Limited (AIM) is a private institution registered with CRICOS (00665C) and offers this course at its campuses in The Rocks (NSW) and Melbourne (VIC). All institutions and courses listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act.
This course provides a broad foundation in mixed field programmes. Students typically develop academic skills such as critical thinking, research, communication, and independent learning. The curriculum may also include introductory modules in areas like creative arts, business, or technology, depending on the pathway. Since this is a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to a formal Australian Qualifications Framework qualification but serves as a stepping stone to higher education. Graduates often progress to AQF-level courses. The exact syllabus is set by The Australian Institute of Music Limited – prospective students should contact AIM for detailed unit outlines.
The Foundation Program has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification course – no dual qualification is offered. The program is available at two campuses: 66 Harrington St, The Rocks, NSW 2000 and the Melbourne Campus in VIC. Students should confirm the study mode (on-campus, blended, etc.) directly with AIM.
Tuition fee: A$21,000. Non-tuition fees: A$600. Estimated total: A$21,600. These fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with The Australian Institute of Music Limited (www.aim.edu.au). Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For budgeting, consider that weekly living costs in Sydney are approximately A$400–600 and in Melbourne A$350–550. These figures are guides only.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this foundation program, a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 (or equivalent) is commonly expected. Prior qualifications: completion of Year 11 or equivalent in your home country. Foundation/pathway options: Yes – foundation studies available, and this course is itself a foundation program. Students without direct entry to bachelor's degrees may use this course as a pathway. Note: Entry requirements are set by The Australian Institute of Music Limited and may be subject to change. Always verify with AIM.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are not part of the course but are a general visa entitlement.
This course is delivered at two locations: 66 Harrington St, The Rocks, NSW 2000 (Sydney campus) and the Melbourne Campus, VIC. The Rocks campus is in the heart of Sydney, close to public transport and cultural attractions. Melbourne campus is centrally located. Both cities have large international student communities – Sydney is home to over 150,000 international students across many CRICOS-registered providers, while Melbourne hosts a similar number. Living costs: Sydney is slightly more expensive than Melbourne. Public transport in both cities is extensive with student concession cards available.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during academic term, unlimited during scheduled course breaks. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from AIM is required for the visa application. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Foundation Program at The Australian Institute of Music Limited: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and city (Sydney or Melbourne). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit AIM's website (www.aim.edu.au) or contact admissions. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and meet any other entry requirements. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once AIM issues your CoE, lodge a visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, funds, and genuine temporary stay.
Explore Foundation Program on the CRICOS register or contact The Australian Institute of Music Limited for the latest information.
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Foundation Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Australian Institute of Music 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.