Graduate Diploma in Music (Performance) (CRICOS course code 058359A) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by The University of Sydney over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program in the field of Creative Arts (Performing Arts - Music) is designed for students who have already completed a bachelor's degree and wish to deepen their performance skills. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The University of Sydney, a public institution with CRICOS code 00026A, is consistently ranked among the world's top universities, offering students access to world-class faculty and facilities at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee safeguards and support services. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you plan your study journey.
Graduate Diploma in Music (Performance) (CRICOS 058359A) is a 1-year program at AQF Level 8, offered by The University of Sydney. The course focuses on advanced performance techniques, repertoire studies, and individual tuition, preparing graduates for professional performance careers or further study at master's level. As a Graduate Diploma, it typically requires prior undergraduate study in music or a related field. The program is delivered entirely in English at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, located in the heart of Sydney's central business district. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), and the University of Sydney is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students.
This Graduate Diploma falls under the broad field of Creative Arts, specifically Performing Arts (Music). Students engage in advanced performance practice, including solo and ensemble work, music analysis, and historical context. The curriculum typically includes private lessons with renowned faculty, masterclasses, and public recitals. Graduates develop high-level technical proficiency, interpretive skills, and artistic expression. Please note that this is a general description of the field and level; exact course content is determined by The University of Sydney. For a detailed syllabus, refer to the provider's website.
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Diploma in Music (Performance) has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The program is delivered face-to-face on campus, with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification (not a dual or packaged course) and does not include foundation studies. Full-time study is typical for international students to meet visa requirements. The University of Sydney's academic calendar includes two semesters, with intakes usually in February and July. Always confirm current intake dates with the provider.
The indicative tuition fee for this Graduate Diploma is A$47,500, with non-tuition fees of A$373, giving an estimated total of A$47,873. Please note: These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by The University of Sydney. They are subject to change and do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fees, visit the University of Sydney's website. International students should budget for additional costs such as rent (in Sydney, indicative weekly rent ranges from A$250–A$500), groceries (A$80–A$150 per week), and public transport (A$30–A$50 per week). The Australian Department of Home Affairs requires proof of sufficient funds for living costs, currently calculated at A$21,041 per year (as of May 2025). Always confirm with the provider and official sources.
General entry requirements for this Graduate Diploma include an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Candidates typically hold a bachelor's degree in music or a related discipline, with demonstrated performance ability through audition or portfolio. Some students may be eligible for pathway programs or foundation studies; for specific prerequisites and recognition of prior learning, refer to The University of Sydney's admissions page. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, which assesses your intention to study temporarily in Australia. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are automatically granted with a valid student visa. For detailed information, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The Graduate Diploma in Music (Performance) is delivered at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, located at 1 Conservatorium Road, Sydney, NSW 2000. This campus is part of The University of Sydney and is situated in Sydney's central business district, near the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Sydney Opera House. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a population of over 5 million, hosting more than 200,000 international students. It has a vibrant arts scene and excellent public transport, including trains, buses, and ferries. There are over 80 CRICOS-registered providers in Sydney offering a wide range of courses. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the Australian average; indicative weekly expenses include rent (A$250–A$500), groceries (A$80–A$150), and transport (A$30–A$50).
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Sydney, sufficient English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and evidence of financial capacity. The visa allows work rights as described above. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA agent or visiting homeaffairs.gov.au for visa applications.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma in Music (Performance) at The University of Sydney:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use tools like the CRICOS register to filter by course level, field (Creative Arts), and city (Sydney). The University of Sydney is a registered provider (CRICOS 00026A).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the University of Sydney's website, review entry requirements (including English test scores and audition details), check application deadlines (typically July for February intake), and submit your application online.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa at the Department of Home Affairs, providing evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. For step-by-step guidance, visit our Student Visa page.
Sydney offers a dynamic environment for music students, with world-class venues, orchestras, and a thriving cultural scene. However, living costs are high compared to other Australian cities. Consider your budget, preferred lifestyle, and career goals. The city is well-connected by public transport, and the Conservatorium campus is easily accessible. For more on studying in NSW, explore our New South Wales study guide.
Ready to apply? Check the latest fees and deadlines at The University of Sydney, or explore more creative arts courses in Sydney on HeadStart Academy.
Graduate Diploma in Music (Performance) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. 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.