Graduate Diploma of Music (Performance) (CRICOS course code 081573C) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Australian Academy of Music and Performing Arts over 1 year. This course sits at AQF Level 8 and is designed for musicians seeking to deepen their performance skills through advanced study. As a CRICOS-registered program at a private provider in Sydney's creative hub of Surry Hills, it offers international students a pathway to refine their craft while experiencing Australia's vibrant arts scene. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you receive accurate, up-to-date information to plan your studies. Whether you aim to perform professionally or pursue further study, this graduate program provides intensive training in a supportive environment.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Graduate Diploma of Music (Performance) (CRICOS 081573C) is a Graduate Certificate qualification offered by the Australian Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA), a private CRICOS-registered provider (01108B). The course runs for 52 weeks (1 year) with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study component. This program focuses on the field of Creative Arts (broadly defined as 10 - Creative Arts) and prepares graduates for professional performance careers. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
In this Graduate Diploma, students engage with advanced music performance techniques, repertoire development, and stagecraft. The curriculum typically covers solo and ensemble performance, interpretation, and stylistic analysis across various musical periods. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with AMPA, graduates at this level often develop enhanced technical proficiency, artistic expression, and critical reflection skills. The field of Creative Arts encompasses a wide range of disciplines, and this program is tailored for those seeking to specialise in instrumental or vocal performance. Practical workshops, masterclasses, and performance opportunities form the core of the learning experience.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. There is no work component. As a single qualification, it does not lead to a dual award or require foundation studies. International students should note that this CRICOS duration influences their student visa length. AMPA's Surry Hills campus provides a dedicated environment for music study, with access to rehearsal spaces and performance venues. The standard study load for a graduate certificate level is typically 4 subjects per semester, but check with AMPA for exact structure.
The indicative fees for Graduate Diploma of Music (Performance) at Australian Academy of Music and Performing Arts, sourced from the CRICOS register, are as follows: Tuition fee A$25,500, Non-tuition fees A$1,100, Estimated total A$26,600. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Sydney are among Australia's highest, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$400–$600, plus groceries and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with AMPA on their website (http://ampa.edu.au/) as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees only.
English language requirements for this course vary by provider but typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Graduate Diploma, a minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent is common. Prior qualifications expected for this level include a bachelor's degree in music or equivalent professional experience. Some providers may offer pathway options if you do not meet direct entry. AMPA will assess your application individually. Contact the provider for specific academic requirements and English test scores. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider's entry requirements page.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Work opportunities can provide valuable industry experience and help offset living costs. Always check your visa conditions before commencing any employment. The ESOS Act ensures your rights in the workplace are protected.
The course is delivered solely at AMPA Surry Hills, located in the inner-city suburb of Surry Hills, New South Wales. Surry Hills is known for its creative community, close to Sydney CBD and well-served by public transport (buses, trains, light rail). The area hosts many music venues, studios, and galleries, offering students a lively cultural environment. Sydney is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, and living costs here are among the highest in Australia. The campus address should be confirmed with AMPA.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Requirements include demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. From 1 July 2016, OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Always apply with accurate documentation. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is currently registered on CRICOS. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English language tests, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, portfolio, and English test results. Submit your application to AMPA. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, AMPA will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Sydney offers a dynamic arts scene with world-class venues, but living costs are high. International students on a Student visa can work part-time to supplement income, but should budget for rent (approx. A$400-600/week), groceries (A$100-150/week), and transport (A$40-60/week). The city has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 2,500 courses, making it competitive. Consider your career goals: a Graduate Certificate at AQF Level 8 can lead to further study or professional performance roles. AMPA's Surry Hills location is ideal for networking. Always verify CRICOS registration and ESOS protections before enrolling.
Ready to apply for Graduate Diploma of Music (Performance)? Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses and start your application today.
View the full Australian Academy of Music and Performing Arts profile →
Graduate Diploma of Music (Performance) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Academy of Music and Performing Arts. 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.