The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) (CRICOS course code 0101231) is a Diploma level course delivered by Australian Airline Pilot Academy Pty Ltd over 28 weeks (~6 months). This course, classified under Aircraft Operation (031505), prepares you for flying under instrument flight rules. Here’s everything you need to know, including entry requirements, fees, delivery locations, and visa pathways for international students. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) (CRICOS course code 0101231) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Airline Pilot Academy Pty Ltd over 28 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for students who want to develop the skills and knowledge required to operate aircraft under instrument flight rules. The field of education is Aerospace Engineering and Technology (0315), specifically Aircraft Operation (031505). Graduates typically gain competencies in flight planning, navigation, meteorology, and instrument procedures, preparing them for careers as commercial pilots or further study in aviation.
The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) focuses on advanced flight operations under instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Students learn to interpret instrument displays, manage navigation systems, and communicate effectively with air traffic control. The course covers theoretical subjects such as aerodynamics, aviation law, and human factors, combined with practical flight training. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates typically develop the ability to fly safely in low-visibility conditions, meet Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements, and apply for an instrument rating endorsement on their pilot license.
The course duration is 28 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual awards or foundation studies). Study mode is typically full-time, with a combination of theory classes, simulator sessions, and actual flight hours. Students are expected to attend classes at the specified delivery locations. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to meet your student visa conditions.
The indicative total course fee is A$7,000, as sourced from the CRICOS register. Tuition fees and non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, uniforms, flight hour costs) are set by the provider and may be subject to change. Always confirm the latest fees with Australian Airline Pilot Academy Pty Ltd at www.aapa.net.au. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included in this figure. International students should budget for additional expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance.
For the Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating), applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) and have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Prior aviation experience (e.g., a Private Pilot License) may be required by the provider. Some institutions offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements. Contact Australian Airline Pilot Academy Pty Ltd for specific prerequisites and credit transfer options.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. These work rights are subject to visa conditions and can help offset living costs. Note that the course itself does not arrange work placements.
The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is delivered at four locations in Victoria and New South Wales: AAPA Victoria Pty Ltd — Mitchell Park, VIC; Australian Airline Pilot Academy Wagga — Wagga Wagga, NSW; Narrandera-Leeton Airport — Narrandera, NSW; and Wagga Wagga Airport (RTO Operations) — Forest Hill, NSW. Mitchell Park is a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria’s capital, offering access to a large student population and extensive public transport. Wagga Wagga, Narrandera, and Forest Hill are regional centres in NSW with active aviation training environments. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, while NSW has more than 300, providing a rich study ecosystem.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider, proof of genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and evidence of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (currently A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) at Australian Airline Pilot Academy Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Aviation), and location (VIC or NSW). Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (CRICOS 03181K).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit www.aapa.net.au to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application and required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, etc.).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and meet the GTE and financial capacity criteria.
Ready to start your aviation career in Australia? Explore the Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) at Australian Airline Pilot Academy Pty Ltd and apply today. Visit our course page for more details or contact the provider directly.
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Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Airline Pilot Academy 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.