Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) (CRICOS course code 0101233) is a Diploma delivered by AAPA VICTORIA PTY LTD over 10 weeks. This qualification falls under the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology (0315), specifically Aircraft Operation, and is designed for international students aiming to become commercial pilots with an instrument rating. Delivered in both Victoria and New South Wales, the course provides the skills needed to operate aircraft under instrument flight rules. With an indicative total cost of A$21,000 and English language requirements of IELTS 5.5–6.0, it is a practical pathway into Australia’s aviation industry. AAPA VICTORIA PTY LTD (CRICOS 03354E) is a private provider registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring you study under the protections of the ESOS Act. As with all CRICOS-listed courses, this course is open to international student visa (Subclass 500) holders, and HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026).
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The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) focuses on the knowledge and practical skills required to fly aircraft solely by reference to instruments, without external visual cues. Students learn advanced navigation, instrument interpretation, flight planning, and decision-making under instrument meteorological conditions. The course aligns with the VET national code AVI50519 (Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating)). Graduates typically gain the competencies needed to operate as co-pilots in multi-crew environments or pursue further training for commercial pilot licences. While this section provides a general overview, specific syllabus details are available from AAPA VICTORIA PTY LTD.
The course is 10 weeks in duration, as listed on the CRICOS register (10 weeks). All instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. The intensive structure is designed for international students who can commit full-time to flight training, balancing simulated and actual flight hours. Given the practical nature of aviation courses, students should expect a demanding schedule that may include evening or weekend sessions.
Tuition fees for this course are A$21,000 (indicative). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should confirm directly with the provider for any additional charges (e.g., uniform, equipment, examination fees). The estimated total is A$21,000. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500) are not included. Always check the current fees on the provider’s website at www.aapa.net.au before applying. Fees are subject to change and are set independently by the institution.
International applicants typically need an overall IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) for admission to this Diploma course. Prior academic requirements generally include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling. Some providers may also require a medical fitness assessment (e.g., CASA Class 1 Medical) and a valid aviation English proficiency test. Since this course does not include foundation studies, students who do not meet the direct entry requirements should contact AAPA VICTORIA PTY LTD for pathway options. Always refer to the institution’s official entry criteria for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Diploma is purely academic and practical flight training. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work undertaken is separate from the course and must not interfere with study requirements.
The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is delivered at two locations: 2 Bowral Court, Mitchell Park — MITCHELL PARK, VIC, and AAPA Wagga — Forest Hill, NSW. Mitchell Park is a suburb of Melbourne's northern growth corridor, approximately 25 km from the CBD, with good public transport connections via bus and train. Melbourne is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Forest Hill is a suburb of Wagga Wagga in regional NSW, known for its aviation training facilities. Both campuses provide access to airports and flight training infrastructure. Indicative living costs in Melbourne range from A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport; in Wagga Wagga, costs are generally lower, around A$1,200–A$1,500 per month.
International students enrolling in a CRICOS-registered course like this one are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain a visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and hold a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. OSHC is mandatory and typically costs between A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. For visa and migration advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three simple steps to apply for the Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) at AAPA VICTORIA PTY LTD: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Compare providers and check their CRICOS status. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – ensure you meet the entry requirements, prepare your English test results (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and submit your application by the deadline. Contact AAPA VICTORIA via their website for application forms and guidance. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate your financial capacity.
Victoria and New South Wales are popular destinations for international aviation students due to their strong aviation infrastructure, favourable flying weather, and multiple training airports. Victoria has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers offering a range of aviation courses, from diplomas to bachelor’s degrees. Melbourne’s international airport and regional airfields provide excellent training environments. New South Wales, particularly the Wagga Wagga region, is known for its dedicated aviation training facilities and lower cost of living. Both states offer a vibrant international student community and access to industry networks. When choosing a location, consider factors such as proximity to airports, accommodation costs, and climate. HeadStart Academy’s data from the CRICOS register shows that Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, ensuring you have many options.
Ready to start your aviation journey? Use HeadStart Academy to explore CRICOS-registered aviation courses and apply directly to AAPA VICTORIA PTY LTD today.
Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is a CRICOS-registered programme at AAPA VICTORIA 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.