Graduate Diploma of Accounting (CRICOS course code 055689G) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year. This course, registered under CRICOS provider code 01241G, is designed for international students seeking to deepen their accounting knowledge and skills at AQF Level 8. Southern Cross University, a government-owned institution, offers this program at its Gold Coast campus in Bilinga, Queensland. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to provide you with reliable, up-to-date information. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, the Graduate Diploma of Accounting at SCU stands out as a pathway to professional accounting careers. Whether you aim to meet entry requirements for the accounting profession or pursue further study, this program offers a comprehensive curriculum in a supportive learning environment. Explore fees, entry requirements, and application steps below.
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Graduate Diploma of Accounting (CRICOS course code 055689G) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year. It falls under the field of education 08 - Management and Commerce, specifically 0801 - Accounting (080101 - Accounting). This AQF Level 8 qualification equips students with advanced knowledge in financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, and business law. SCU is a government-owned university with a strong reputation for providing quality education to international students. The course is delivered at the Gold Coast Airport Development Park in Bilinga, Queensland, offering modern facilities and access to a vibrant student community. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 01241G), it ensures compliance with Australian quality standards and the ESOS Act, giving students legal protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with no commission or referral fees, to help you make informed decisions.
The Graduate Diploma of Accounting focuses on the core areas of accounting as defined by the Australian accounting profession. Students typically develop skills in financial reporting, management accounting, taxation law, auditing, and corporate finance. The curriculum is designed to build on prior undergraduate knowledge, extending to complex accounting issues and ethical decision-making. Graduates often pursue careers as accountants, financial analysts, or proceed to further study such as a Master of Professional Accounting. While specific subjects may vary, the course structure generally aligns with the requirements of professional accounting bodies like CPA Australia and CA ANZ. HeadStart Academy recommends checking with Southern Cross University for the detailed syllabus, as course content is subject to change. This course is a single qualification with no dual awards or embedded foundation studies.
The Graduate Diploma of Accounting is scheduled for 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification with no dual award option. Full-time study is typical, allowing students to complete the program within the standard duration. SCU may offer flexible delivery modes, including on-campus or online components; however, international students must attend on-campus classes to maintain visa compliance. For detailed information on study modes and timetables, consult the Southern Cross University website. Remember that student visa conditions require satisfactory course progress and attendance.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma of Accounting is A$26,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees, including materials, amenities, and administrative charges, are estimated at A$2,000, bringing the total to approximately A$28,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge are not included. OSHC typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by city; in the Gold Coast, indicative weekly expenses are around A$350-$500 for rent, A$80-$120 for groceries, and A$30-$50 for public transport. For current fee information, always verify directly with Southern Cross University at www.scu.edu.au.
International students applying for the Graduate Diploma of Accounting should typically have completed a recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Some students may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if their prior qualifications or English level do not meet the entry criteria. Southern Cross University may also consider prior work experience or other qualifications. Exact requirements are set by the institution and may vary; consult the SCU website for the most current entry criteria. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting SCU's admissions office or a registered education agent for personalised advice. Note that meeting academic requirements does not guarantee a visa outcome.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. While the Graduate Diploma of Accounting does not require work experience, students may seek voluntary internships or part-time work to enhance their skills. Always comply with visa work restrictions and consult the Department of Home Affairs for current regulations.
The Graduate Diploma of Accounting is delivered at Southern Cross University's Gold Coast campus: Gold Coast Airport Development Park - Bilinga, BILINGA, QLD. This campus is located near the Gold Coast Airport and is well-connected by public transport, including buses and light rail. The Gold Coast is a major study destination with over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses. Students enjoy a coastal lifestyle with a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Typical student accommodation ranges from shared apartments to purpose-built student housing. For more information about studying in Queensland, visit our Queensland study guide.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants may accompany the primary visa holder with limited work rights. The Department of Home Affairs website (homeaffairs.gov.au) provides full details. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent for visa advice. Remember, you must enrol only in CRICOS-registered courses to be eligible for a student visa.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Accounting at Southern Cross University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Accounting), and city (Gold Coast). Confirm that Southern Cross University (CRICOS 01241G) is the right fit for you. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit SCU’s website (www.scu.edu.au) and complete the online application. You’ll need to provide academic transcripts, English test results, and supporting documents. Check entry requirements and application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once SCU issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance but recommends consulting a registered migration agent for complex cases.
The Gold Coast offers a unique study environment with over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, a diverse student population, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Compared to Sydney or Melbourne, living costs are lower, with indicative weekly rent around $350-$500 for a one-bedroom apartment near the campus. Groceries and transport are also affordable. The Gold Coast Airport and public transport make travel easy. However, consider that the city is spread out, and having a car may be convenient. For accounting students, the region has growing financial services and business sectors, offering potential internship opportunities. HeadStart Academy’s free resources can help you compare providers and courses. Remember, all listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and student protections.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above to start your journey toward the Graduate Diploma of Accounting at Southern Cross University.
Graduate Diploma of Accounting is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.