Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 084211E) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Central Queensland University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for international students seeking to build expertise in accounting, management, and commerce. As part of the field 080101 Accounting, you'll develop skills in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and business strategy. Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C) is a government-funded institution with campuses in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. Whether you're aiming for CPA Australia or CA ANZ accreditation, this course provides a strong foundation for a career in accounting. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Graduate Diploma is one of the many pathways available.
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This Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting focuses on advanced accounting principles and practices. Typical learning outcomes include financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, taxation law, and corporate finance. You'll also develop analytical and problem-solving skills relevant to the accounting profession. While the specific syllabus is set by Central Queensland University, graduates at this level are prepared for roles such as accountant, financial analyst, or auditor. The course aligns with AQF Level 8, which typically requires a bachelor degree or equivalent. International students benefit from a curriculum that incorporates Australian accounting standards and international frameworks. With a focus on practical application, you'll be equipped to navigate complex financial environments. This field of education (080101 Accounting) is one of the most popular among international students in Australia, with strong demand for qualified professionals.
The Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting has a duration of 1 year, or 52 weeks, as registered on CRICOS. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual award or foundation studies program. The course is typically delivered full-time, with intake periods set by Central Queensland University. Students should check the provider's website for specific start dates and study mode options (on-campus or online, if available). Studying in Australia offers a multicultural environment and access to world-class facilities. As an international student, you'll be covered by the ESOS Act protections, which safeguard your rights and tuition fees. Remember that your student visa (Subclass 500) requires you to maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting is A$38,790 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs such as textbooks, materials, and other expenses. The estimated total is A$38,790. Please note: these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. For current fees, always check Central Queensland University's website (www.cqu.edu.au). Additional costs not included in the tuition are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student in Australia), and the visa application charge (currently A$710). The cost of living varies by city: in Brisbane, expect weekly rent of A$200–350; in Melbourne, A$250–400; in Sydney, A$300–500. Use the Department of Home Affairs' financial capacity guidelines as a reference.
Entry requirements for the Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting typically include an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0, or equivalent English language test results. Prior qualifications expected for this level include a bachelor degree in any discipline, or equivalent work experience. Central Queensland University may have specific prerequisite subjects or minimum academic standards. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – contact the provider for details. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for your student visa. Always confirm the exact entry requirements with the institution before applying, as they can change. If you need guidance on visa requirements, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can provide valuable Australian work experience and help offset living costs. Remember that your primary purpose is study, and work must not interfere with your course progress. Casual work in retail, hospitality, or accounting internships are common options. Use career services at Central Queensland University to explore opportunities. The ESOS Act ensures you have access to support services during your studies.
This course is delivered at three Central Queensland University campuses: Brisbane C.Q.U. Campus in Brisbane, QLD; Melbourne C.Q.U Campus in Melbourne, VIC; and Sydney C.Q.U. Campus in Sydney, NSW. Each city offers a vibrant student community: Brisbane has over 100,000 international students with a lower cost of living; Melbourne is known for its culture and diverse student population (over 250,000 international students); Sydney is Australia's largest city with a high concentration of universities and financial hubs. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Studying in these cities gives you exposure to Australia's major business centres, ideal for networking and future employment. Choose a location that suits your lifestyle and budget.
To study this Graduate Diploma on a student visa (Subclass 500), you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Your visa allows work rights as mentioned. Upon completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet specific criteria. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current conditions. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only – we are not a registered migration agent. For personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting at Central Queensland University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Accounting), and city (Brisbane, Melbourne, or Sydney) to compare options. Use HeadStart Academy to access official CRICOS data.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Central Queensland University's website (www.cqu.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English test scores, application deadlines, and submit your application. You can apply online through the provider's international admissions portal.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once you accept the offer and pay the deposit, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE requirement.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Central Queensland University's website to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting today.
Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland University. 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.