Are you an international student looking to advance your accounting career in Australia? The Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 055528B) offered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) is a comprehensive one-year program designed to build on your existing knowledge and prepare you for professional accounting roles. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00122A), it meets Australian standards for international education. Located at RMIT's Melbourne campus, this graduate diploma covers key areas of accounting and is ideal for those seeking to meet entry requirements for professional accounting bodies or pursue further study. With an indicative tuition fee of A$48,960 and strong industry links, this course offers a pathway to a rewarding career in accounting. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 055528B) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 1 year (52 weeks). Classified under the field of Management and Commerce (08) with a focus on Accounting (080101), this course is designed for international students who already hold a bachelor's degree and wish to deepen their accounting expertise. RMIT is a government-funded university with a strong reputation for practical, industry-relevant education. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00122A), RMIT is authorised to enrol overseas students. This course is taught entirely in English and is a single qualification with no dual award or work component. For comprehensive details, refer to the provider's website.
This graduate diploma covers core accounting disciplines such as financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, and corporate finance. At AQF Level 8, students are expected to develop advanced theoretical and technical knowledge, as well as analytical and problem-solving skills applicable to professional accounting practice. The curriculum is aligned with the requirements of professional accounting bodies in Australia, providing a pathway to membership. While the specific syllabus is set by RMIT, graduates typically gain competencies in financial reporting, budgeting, risk management, and ethical decision-making. This course is ideal for those seeking to transition into accounting roles or fulfil the educational requirements for migration assessment.
The Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting has a CRICOS-registered duration of 1 year or 52 weeks. Instruction is conducted entirely in English, reflecting the language requirements for professional practice in Australia. This is a single qualification with no foundation studies or dual award. The full-time study mode allows international students to maintain their student visa conditions. RMIT offers a blend of lectures, tutorials, and self-directed learning, with access to digital resources. Students are expected to commit around 40 hours per week including classes and independent study.
Tuition for the Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting is A$48,960 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register as at April 2026). Non-tuition fees, including student services and amenities, are approximately A$373, bringing the estimated total to A$49,333. Please note: these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living expenses in Melbourne are estimated at A$30,000–A$35,000 per year for a single student, including rent (A$450–A$600 per week), groceries, and transport. For the most current fees, always check RMIT’s official website.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall band of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) and a recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline. Some prior study in accounting may be beneficial but is not mandatory. RMIT may also consider relevant work experience. If you don’t meet the English requirement, pathway programs such as English language courses or foundation studies may be available. Always confirm specific entry requirements with RMIT, as they can change. For visa purposes, you’ll need to demonstrate English proficiency at the required level for your student visa subclass (typically IELTS 5.5 for package courses or 6.0 for direct entry).
This course has no mandatory work component. It is a full-time academic program focused on coursework. However, as an international student holding a Subclass 500 visa, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can provide valuable Australian work experience while you study.
The course is delivered at RMIT University’s campus at 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and a leading education hub, home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers and thousands of international students. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$300–A$450. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, diverse cuisine, and strong job opportunities in accounting and finance.
This course qualifies for the Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you will need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). You must also provide evidence of English proficiency. The visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (1 year) plus additional time. If you wish to bring family members, they may apply for dependent visas. Remember, all international students are protected by the ESOS Act 2000, which ensures education quality and consumer rights. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for the Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting at RMIT involves three simple steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Accounting), and location (Melbourne). Verify RMIT’s CRICOS registration (00122A) and course code (055528B). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit RMIT’s website to submit an online application. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and any additional selection criteria. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, RMIT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. You’ll need to show evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE compliance.
Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities, offering a high quality of life for international students. With over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, it has a strong education sector. The cost of living is generally lower than Sydney, with average weekly rent at A$450–A$600 for a one-bedroom apartment. Public transport is efficient, with a myki card system covering trains, trams, and buses. The city is a hub for professional services, including accounting firms like the Big Four, providing networking and internship opportunities. Melbourne’s multicultural environment also makes it easier for international students to adapt. However, consider that competition for part-time jobs can be high, and the climate is cooler than northern Australia. Weigh these factors against your personal preferences before choosing Melbourne as your study destination.
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Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting is a CRICOS-registered programme at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. 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.