Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) (CRICOS course code 0101221) is a Diploma delivered by Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd over 16 weeks. This qualification is designed for international students seeking to gain an instrument rating — a critical certification for pilots operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 01933B), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Tristar Aviation, a private provider based in Mentone, Victoria, offers this AQF Level 5 diploma within the field of Aircraft Operation (031505). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this program is ideal for those aiming to build a career in commercial aviation. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no commission or referral fees — helping you compare CRICOS-registered courses like this one.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) (CRICOS course code 0101221) is a Diploma delivered by Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd over 16 weeks. The course falls under the field of education 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically Aerospace Engineering and Technology (0315) and Aircraft Operation (031505). This level of study (AQF Level 5) prepares graduates to operate aircraft under instrument flight rules, a prerequisite for many commercial pilot roles. Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01933B) is a private provider with a long-standing reputation in aviation training. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, meaning they are approved by the Australian Government to enrol international students. Data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. This course does not include a dual qualification or foundation studies, and the VET national code is AVI50519. The language of instruction is English, ensuring international students develop the technical language skills needed in aviation.
As a Diploma-level course in Aircraft Operation, students study advanced flight theory, navigation, meteorology, and instrument procedures. The curriculum typically covers topics such as instrument navigation, flight planning, human factors, and aeronautical decision-making. Graduates gain the skills to safely operate aircraft under instrument flight rules, including in challenging weather conditions. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a specific syllabus, CRICOS-registered courses must meet national competency standards. Tristar Aviation's program is designed to align with industry requirements, preparing students for the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) instrument rating flight test. Field of education 031505 focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of flying, and this diploma is a common pathway for international students aiming for a career as a commercial pilot in Australia or abroad.
The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) has a duration of 16 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time, single qualification course delivered in English. There is no work component included; however, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The intensive 16-week structure allows students to focus entirely on their instrument rating training. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for international student enrolment. Mentone, where Tristar Aviation is based, offers convenient access to Melbourne's major airports, making it an ideal location for aviation studies.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: A$26,739. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but students should confirm directly with Tristar Aviation for any additional charges (e.g., flight hours, equipment, exams). The estimated total is A$26,739. Please note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students; costs vary by provider and duration. Living costs in Melbourne are typically around A$500–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. For current and accurate fees, always visit Tristar Aviation's official website at http://www.tristaraviation.com.au/. Fees are subject to change by the provider.
International students typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) to enter this diploma. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Year 12 or equivalent, and a valid Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is often a prerequisite for instrument rating training. Some providers may also require a Class 1 Medical Certificate. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; students should contact Tristar Aviation for specific entry requirements. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the provider will assess eligibility before issuing a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website or speaking with their admissions team for the most up-to-date requirements.
This course includes no work component. It is a full-time academic program focused entirely on aviation training. While the course itself does not require work, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) have work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living expenses, but students must ensure their work does not interfere with their studies. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights, including the ability to work subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd — Mentone, VIC. Mentone is a suburb in the south-east of Melbourne, approximately 20 km from the CBD. It is well-served by public transport, including the Mentone railway station on the Frankston line, making it accessible for students living in and around Melbourne. The area has several CRICOS-registered providers, though aviation-specific training centres are concentrated near airports. Melbourne is home to over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population, offering a vibrant multicultural environment. Living costs in Melbourne are similar to other major Australian cities, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–350.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions, having sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English proficiency standards. OSHC must be arranged for the entire visa duration. With a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After course completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the requirements. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the latest visa conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised guidance.
Applying for the Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) at Tristar Aviation Company Pty Ltd is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Aircraft Operation), and location (Mentone, VIC). Confirm that Tristar Aviation's CRICOS code (01933B) is current. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Tristar Aviation through their website (http://www.tristaraviation.com.au/) to verify entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts, and provide evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS). Complete the application form and pay any application fees. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Await approval and prepare for your journey to Australia.
Ready to start your aviation career? Explore Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) on HeadStart Academy, or contact Tristar Aviation directly to begin your application.
Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Tristar Aviation Company 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.