Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) (CRICOS course code 017227G) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 3 years. This AQF Level 7 program is designed for international students seeking a professional pilot career combined with a university qualification. Based at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, the course covers aircraft operation, aerospace engineering principles, and aviation management. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. With an indicative total fee of A$331,500, including tuition and non-tuition costs, this degree represents a significant investment in your aviation future. Whether you aim to become a commercial airline pilot or work in aviation operations, this program provides the theoretical and practical foundations. HeadStart Academy offers this page as a free resource to help you understand your study options in Australia, with data sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Always verify details with UNSW before applying.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) (017227G) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) in the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology, specialising in Aircraft Operation (031505). Delivered over 3 years (156 weeks) in English, this single qualification prepares students for careers as professional pilots. UNSW is a prestigious Group of Eight university with a strong reputation in engineering and aviation. The course combines theory with practical flying training, though the CRICOS register lists no mandatory work component. Students gain expertise in aircraft systems, navigation, human factors, and aviation law. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,000+ courses, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate this landscape. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
The field of education (031505 - Aircraft Operation) encompasses the skills and knowledge required to operate aircraft safely and efficiently. At Bachelor Degree level, students typically learn advanced principles of flight, aerodynamics, aviation meteorology, and crew resource management. The curriculum also covers aviation safety, regulatory frameworks, and airline operations. While exact subjects are set by UNSW, graduates of such programs often gain the academic requirements for a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). The course may include simulator training and cross-country flight planning. This degree is not a vocational qualification (no VET national code) but a higher education program focused on both theory and practical application. Always consult UNSW's official website for the current syllabus and any changes.
The course is 3 years (156 weeks) full-time, as per the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Study mode is full-time on campus in Kensington, Sydney. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions (Subclass 500). The duration includes both academic study and practical training components as required by the aviation curriculum.
Tuition: A$328,500 | Non-tuition fees: A$3,000 | Estimated total: A$331,500. These figures are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by UNSW and subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, visa application charges, and personal costs. For current fees, always visit UNSW's website. International students in Sydney typically budget for weekly rent (A$400–600), groceries (A$80–120), and transport (A$40–50) as a general guide. The cost of living in Sydney is high compared to other Australian cities.
English language requirement: IELTS overall 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0 (equivalent tests may be accepted). For academic entry, completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent with prerequisites in mathematics and physics is typically expected. UNSW may also consider foundation studies or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry. Additionally, medical fitness requirements apply for pilot training. Always check UNSW's official entry requirements, as they may change. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee admission; consult the provider for specific criteria.
No work component is included in this course. The CRICOS register indicates no mandatory work placement. However, students may seek casual employment during their studies, subject to visa work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). UNSW may offer optional internship opportunities outside the curriculum.
This course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington campus, in Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers. The Kensington campus is well-connected by public transport, including light rail and buses to the city centre. Studying in Sydney offers access to Australia's main aviation industry hubs, including Sydney Airport. The city has a vibrant international student community and diverse cultural experiences.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions: maintain full-time enrolment, hold OSHC health cover for the duration, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act 2000 provides legal protections for international students, including tuition fee protection and complaint processes. For visa applications, always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Apply for Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) at UNSW in 3 steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: HeadStart Academy lists this course; compare it with other aviation degrees using the CRICOS register. Filter by course level, field, and city to find the best fit. 2. Apply directly to UNSW: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any required documents. Meet application deadlines (typically October/November for February intake). Submit through UNSW's admissions portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, UNSW will issue a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application online (ImmiAccount), pay the visa fee, and submit biometrics. Ensure you have OSHC and evidence of funds. For detailed steps, see our Student Visa guide.
Sydney offers world-class aviation facilities, including proximity to Sydney Airport and training airfields. The city is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, many offering aviation-related courses. Living costs in Sydney are higher than in other Australian cities: average weekly rent for a one-bedroom unit is A$550–700, groceries around A$100–150, and public transport A$40–60. However, the job market for pilots in Australia is competitive, with opportunities in airlines, charter operations, and aviation management. Consider your budget, career goals, and lifestyle preferences before choosing Sydney. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you make an informed decision.
Aviation degrees like this one combine academic study with flight training. Key factors: total cost (over A$300k), medical requirements (Class 1 or 2 medical), and the pathway to a Commercial Pilot Licence. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering aviation courses at various levels. Compare this Bachelor Degree with other options such as Associate Degrees or diplomas. The ESOS Act protects international students, so ensure your provider is CRICOS-registered. HeadStart Academy's data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Always verify current fees and delivery modes directly with UNSW.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) at UNSW on HeadStart Academy, then apply directly to the university. For visa guidance, visit our Student Visa page.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.