Diploma of Fashion Design (CRICOS course code 0102086) is a Diploma delivered by LCI Melbourne Pty Ltd over 36 weeks (~8 months). This course is designed for international students seeking a creative career in fashion design. As a CRICOS-registered provider (02201G), LCI Melbourne Pty Ltd meets Australian Government standards for delivering courses to overseas students. The Diploma of Fashion Design falls under the field of Fashion Design (100505) and is ideal for those wanting to develop practical skills in garment construction, textiles, and fashion illustration. Melbourne, Victoria, is a vibrant fashion hub with numerous boutiques, ateliers, and a thriving creative scene. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you plan your study in Australia. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student.
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Diploma of Fashion Design (CRICOS course code 0102086) is a Diploma level (AQF Level 5) qualification delivered by LCI Melbourne Pty Ltd over 36 weeks (approximately 8 months). This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), meaning it meets strict standards for international student education. LCI Melbourne Pty Ltd is a private provider located in Collingwood, Victoria. The course aims to equip students with foundational and intermediate skills in fashion design, including design processes, pattern making, sewing techniques, and fabric knowledge. Graduates often pursue careers as fashion designers, stylists, or pattern makers. With Melbourne home to over 200,000 international students and more than 400 CRICOS-registered providers, studying fashion in this city offers access to a vibrant creative industry. The field of education is Creative Arts (10), specifically Graphic and Design Studies (1005) and Fashion Design (100505). This Diploma does not include a work component, but graduates may explore internship opportunities independently.
The Diploma of Fashion Design covers core areas of fashion design and production. While the exact syllabus is set by LCI Melbourne, typical topics at this level include fashion illustration, pattern making, garment construction, textiles and materials, fashion history, and design software skills. Students learn to translate creative ideas into practical garments, understand the fashion industry cycle, and develop a professional portfolio. Assessment usually involves practical projects, presentations, and written work. This course helps build technical and creative skills needed for entry-level roles in fashion. Note that this is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and is not a VET course (VET national code N/A). The language of instruction is English, and the course is delivered full-time on campus. Melbourne's fashion scene offers many opportunities to gain industry exposure, with regular fashion weeks and local designer markets.
The Diploma of Fashion Design at LCI Melbourne Pty Ltd has a duration of 36 weeks (approximately 8 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study is full-time and conducted in English. This is a single qualification, not a foundation or dual-degree program. Students typically attend classes on campus at the Collingwood location. Melbourne's public transport network, including trains, trams, and buses, provides convenient access to the campus from across the city. With a student population of over 300,000 in Melbourne, the city is well-equipped with accommodation, libraries, and student support services. The relatively short duration allows students to enter the workforce sooner or progress to higher-level studies such as a Bachelor of Fashion Design, which may offer credit transfer.
Indicative fees for the Diploma of Fashion Design (CRICOS 0102086) are as follows, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Tuition fee: A$31,900. Non-tuition fee: A$0 (no mandatory extras reported). Estimated total course cost: A$31,900. These fees are set by LCI Melbourne Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with the provider on their website (www.lcimelbourne.edu.au). Not included in the indicative total: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover; living costs — estimated at A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport in Melbourne; and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). OSHC is mandatory for international students. Refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current visa costs.
Entry requirements for the Diploma of Fashion Design at LCI Melbourne typically include a minimum English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. Mature-age students with relevant work experience may also be considered. Some students may need to complete a foundation program or pathway course if they do not meet direct entry requirements; please check with LCI Melbourne for specific options. A portfolio or interview may be required to demonstrate creative potential. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for the student visa. For IELTS equivalencies, refer to the provider's website.
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 and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This allows students to gain part-time work experience in Melbourne's retail, hospitality, or creative sectors. Note that work should not interfere with study commitments. All student visa holders must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress. For fashion students, voluntary internships or freelance projects can complement their studies and build industry connections.
This course is delivered at LCI Melbourne Pty Ltd's campus in Collingwood, Victoria. Collingwood is a trendy inner-city suburb of Melbourne, known for its art galleries, cafes, and fashion boutiques. The campus is well-served by public transport, including the Collingwood train station and tram routes along Smith Street and Johnston Street. Melbourne's city center is just a 15-minute tram ride away. Victoria has over 500 CRICOS-registered providers, with the majority in Melbourne. Living costs in Melbourne average A$450–A$600 per week for rent, A$80 for groceries, and A$50 for transport (myki card). The city is home to diverse student communities and offers numerous part-time job opportunities.
To study the Diploma of Fashion Design in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus a period of time afterward (typically 2–3 months). Conditions include: maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if applicable), and maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You may also bring eligible family members on Subclass 500 (dependent) visas. Consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent for personalized advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Fashion Design at LCI Melbourne Pty Ltd:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy's directory to compare courses. Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Fashion Design), and location (Melbourne, VIC). Confirm that LCI Melbourne (CRICOS 02201G) meets your needs.
Step 2: Apply directly to LCI Melbourne Pty Ltd. Prepare your documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS etc.), portfolio (if required), passport copy, and personal statement. Check application deadlines on their website (www.lcimelbourne.edu.au). Submit the application and pay any application fee.
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once LCI Melbourne issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include your CoE, OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary; apply early. After visa grant, arrange accommodation and travel to Melbourne.
Melbourne is Australia's fashion capital, hosting major fashion events like Melbourne Fashion Week and a thriving independent design scene. The city has a large international student population (over 200,000) and offers excellent public transport, diverse cuisine, and cultural attractions. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney but higher than regional areas. For fashion students, access to fabric stores, pattern-making services, and networking events is excellent. However, the job market is competitive. Consider whether you prefer a bustling city lifestyle or a quieter regional study environment. Melbourne's climate is temperate with variable weather. Think about your budget, career goals, and personal preferences before choosing.
Before enrolling in a Diploma of Fashion Design, evaluate your career aspirations. This diploma provides practical skills but may not be sufficient for high-level design roles without further study. Consider progression pathways to a Bachelor degree. Check if LCI Melbourne offers credit transfer to partner universities. Also consider the reputation of the provider, location, and alumni network. Fashion design requires creativity, dedication, and the ability to handle critique. Additionally, understand the ESOS Act protections: your tuition fees are protected if the provider fails, and you have rights regarding refunds and complaints. Always verify CRICOS registration status.
Ready to start your fashion journey? Browse more Diploma courses in Victoria on HeadStart Academy or apply directly to LCI Melbourne.
Diploma of Fashion Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at LCI Melbourne 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.