Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) (CRICOS course code 0101220) is a Diploma delivered by Becker Helicopter Services Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 5 qualification prepares students for advanced helicopter operations, focusing on instrument flight rules and navigation. As a CRICOS-registered provider (01742J), Becker Helicopter Services meets Australian Government standards for international education. The course is delivered at two locations in Mudjimba, Queensland, a hub for aviation training on the Sunshine Coast. With an indicative total cost of A$57,258, students gain skills in aircraft operation within the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology (031505). All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student.
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The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) falls under the field of Education: 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically 0315 - Aerospace Engineering and Technology and 031505 - Aircraft Operation. At AQF Level 5, graduates develop technical and theoretical knowledge in helicopter instrument flying, including navigation, meteorology, and flight planning. While the exact syllabus is set by Becker Helicopter Services, typical learning outcomes include operating aircraft under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), managing cockpit resources, and complying with aviation regulations. This diploma is designed to meet industry standards and can lead to further qualifications or employment as a commercial helicopter pilot.
The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and no dual qualification or foundation studies are included. This is a single qualification with the VET national code AVI50519. Students should expect full-time study, with both theoretical and practical flight training components. Becker Helicopter Services operates from the Sunshine Coast Airport, offering modern facilities and aircraft for hands-on training.
Tuition and non-tuition fees are set by the provider; please refer to www.beckerhelicopters.com for current fees. The indicative total cost sourced from the CRICOS register is A$57,258. This does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for additional expenses: OSHC is mandatory under Student visa conditions, and living costs in Mudjimba/Sunshine Coast are approximately A$400–$500 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm fees directly with Becker Helicopter Services before applying.
For this Diploma level, typical entry requirements include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. An English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) is expected. Specific prerequisites (e.g., aviation medical fitness, previous flying experience) are set by the provider. Foundation or pathway options may be available—contact Becker Helicopter Services for details. All entry requirements are subject to the institution's admission policy. We recommend consulting the provider's website for the most up-to-date criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is delivered at two locations in Mudjimba, Queensland: Becker Helicopters Pilot Academy at 3 Friendship Ave and Becker Helicopters School & Hangar at 7 Friendship Ave. Mudjimba is a suburb of the Sunshine Coast, approximately 100 km north of Brisbane. The Sunshine Coast region is home to several CRICOS-registered providers and a growing international student community. Living costs here are slightly lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $350–$500 per week. Public transport connects Mudjimba to Sunshine Coast University and Maroochydore. The aviation industry in Queensland benefits from year-round flying conditions.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria, OSHC for the duration of your stay, and evidence of financial capacity. As a student, you can work 48 hours per fortnight when your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current visa conditions. Australia's ESOS Act provides tuition protection and consumer rights for international students. For visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) at Becker Helicopter Services Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Aerospace Engineering), and location (QLD). Confirm CRICOS registration status on cricos.teqsa.gov.au. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Review entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications), prepare documents, and submit your application through Becker Helicopter Services' admissions portal. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Queensland is a popular destination for aviation studies, with multiple flight schools and a favourable climate. The Sunshine Coast offers a relaxed lifestyle, lower cost of living compared to Sydney, and proximity to major airports. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Queensland hosts many high-quality aviation courses. Consider factors like weather, industry connections, and accommodation when choosing your study location. HeadStart Academy's free resource helps you compare options—no referral fees, all data from the official CRICOS register.
Ready to take the first step? Explore all CRICOS-registered aviation courses in Queensland on HeadStart Academy—free, no commission, data from the official register.
Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Becker Helicopter Services Pty Ltd. 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.