Bachelor of Fine Arts Melbourne

Bachelor of Fine Arts (CRICOS 075490A) at The University of Melbourne

Bachelor of Fine Arts (CRICOS course code 075490A) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 3 years. This AQF Level 7 program falls under the field of Fine Arts (100301), equipping students with advanced skills in visual arts and creative practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00116K), it meets Australian government standards for international education. Students at UniMelb benefit from a world-class education in Melbourne's vibrant arts precinct. Whether you're exploring painting, sculpture, or digital media, this degree provides a rigorous foundation. HeadStart Academy, a free resource sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), helps you compare courses and plan your study journey. Read on for fees, entry requirements, and application steps.

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Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (CRICOS 075490A) is a 3-year full-time bachelor degree offered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) at its Southbank campus. It is classified under the field of Fine Arts (100301) within Creative Arts. The course is designed to develop technical proficiency, critical thinking, and creative expression. Students engage in studio practice, art history, and contemporary art theory. As a CRICOS-registered course, it ensures international students receive education that meets the ESOS Act protections. The University of Melbourne is a prestigious public university (CRICOS 00116K) ranked among the world's top institutions. For the latest details, always refer to the provider's website at unimelb.edu.au.

What you'll study

This degree immerses students in the discipline of fine arts, covering visual arts, crafts, and contemporary creative practices. Graduates typically develop expertise in artistic techniques, conceptual development, and professional portfolio building. The curriculum often includes drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and digital media, alongside art theory and history. Students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary approaches and build a unique artistic voice. While specific syllabi are set by The University of Melbourne, the broad learning outcomes include creative problem-solving, critical analysis, and effective communication. International students gain exposure to Australia's dynamic arts scene, with opportunities to exhibit work and collaborate with industry partners.

Duration and study mode

The Bachelor of Fine Arts is a 3-year full-time program, equivalent to 156 weeks of study as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies or a VET component. Students are expected to attend classes at the Southbank campus, with a mix of studio sessions, lectures, and tutorials. Part-time study options may be available for domestic students; international students typically must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions. Always check with The University of Melbourne for current study mode flexibility.

Fees (indicative — set by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb))

The indicative tuition fee for the Bachelor of Fine Arts is A$128,724 for the entire 3-year program, as recorded in the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, amenities) are approximately A$150, bringing the estimated total to A$128,874. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Living in Melbourne costs around A$500–700 per week for rent, food, and transport. These fees are indicative and subject to change — always confirm the latest fees directly with The University of Melbourne at unimelb.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not set fees; we source data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).

Entry requirements (general guidance)

International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent English test results). Prior qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 are expected, along with a portfolio or audition as determined by The University of Melbourne. Some students may enter via foundation or pathway programs — refer to the provider for details. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; the university assesses each application holistically. For the most accurate and up-to-date entry criteria, visit The University of Melbourne's website. HeadStart Academy advises consulting the provider directly and, for visa-related queries, a registered migration agent.

Work component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Practical experience can be gained through internships, exhibitions, or part-time work in the arts sector. The University of Melbourne may offer optional professional placement opportunities — check with the faculty. Remember, work rights are tied to your visa; always comply with Department of Home Affairs regulations.

Delivery locations

The Bachelor of Fine Arts is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Southbank campus, located at 234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank, VIC. Southbank is Melbourne's premier arts and cultural precinct, home to the Victorian College of the Arts, National Gallery of Victoria, and numerous galleries and theatres. The campus is well-served by public transport, including tram routes and Flinders Street Station nearby, making it accessible from across Melbourne. Victoria has over 450 CRICOS-registered providers, and Melbourne's student population exceeds 200,000, offering a vibrant, multicultural environment for study.

Student visa

International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa conditions include maintaining full-time enrolment, adequate OSHC, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during course breaks. Financial capacity must cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed visa information, refer to the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent for personalized advice. All courses listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Fine Arts at The University of Melbourne: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses like this one. Filter by course level, field (Fine Arts), and location (Victoria) to find the right program. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines on The University of Melbourne's website. Prepare your portfolio and academic transcripts. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, use the CoE to lodge your visa application. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.

Studying Fine Arts in Melbourne

Melbourne is Australia's cultural capital, home to a thriving arts community and numerous galleries, museums, and creative industries. The city offers a high quality of life with a diverse population and strong public transport. Living costs in Melbourne: indicative weekly rent A$200–400 (share house), groceries A$80–150, transport A$50–70. There are over 200,000 international students in Victoria, creating a welcoming environment. Southbank, where the course is delivered, is the epicenter of arts and entertainment. With over 450 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria, you have many options, but The University of Melbourne stands out for its prestige and resources. Consider your career goals and budget when choosing.

Explore more fine arts courses on HeadStart Academy — your free guide to CRICOS-registered study in Australia.

Other courses at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb)

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Source-backed course facts

Bachelor of Fine Arts is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Bachelor of Fine Arts
CRICOS course code
075490A
Provider
The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) (00116K)
Course level
Bachelor Degree
Field of education
10 - Creative Arts
Duration
156 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$128,724
Estimated total (indicative)
A$128,874
Delivery locations
Southbank
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee is A$128,724 for the full 3-year program, with non-tuition fees of approximately A$150, totaling A$128,874. This does not include OSHC, living costs, or visa application fees. Fees are set by the provider and subject to change — always confirm directly with The University of Melbourne.
The Bachelor of Fine Arts is a 3-year full-time program, equivalent to 156 weeks of study as per the CRICOS register. It is a single qualification with no dual award or mandatory work component.
International students generally need an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0) and prior qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12. A portfolio or audition may also be required. Specific requirements vary, so check The University of Melbourne's website for exact criteria.
The course is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Southbank campus, located at 234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank, VIC, in Melbourne's arts precinct. It is easily accessible by public transport.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$128,874 for Bachelor of Fine Arts (tuition A$128,724). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 075490A, offered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) (provider code 00116K). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.