Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 085206E) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Federation University Australia over 1 year. This course is designed for international students who wish to gain foundational accounting knowledge at a graduate level, preparing them for further study or entry-level roles in accounting. As a CRICOS-registered qualification (provider 00103D), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Accounting is a field with strong demand in Australia, and this certificate can be a stepping stone to a Master of Professional Accounting or direct employment. With multiple delivery locations across Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia, students can choose a campus that suits their lifestyle. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and legal protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource to help you navigate your study options in Australia.
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Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 085206E) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Federation University Australia over 1 year. This course belongs to the field of Management and Commerce (Broad Field 08), specifically Accounting (080101). It is an AQF Level 8 qualification, indicating postgraduate-level study. The course provides a foundation in accounting principles, financial reporting, and related areas, suitable for those with a prior degree or relevant work experience. Federation University Australia is a government-owned institution with a long history of education, offering this course at multiple campuses including Ballarat, Gippsland, Melbourne, Sydney, and through partner providers IIBIT Adelaide and MIT Sydney. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is approved for international student enrolment, and students are protected by the ESOS Act.
While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with Federation University, graduate certificate programs in accounting typically cover introductory to intermediate topics such as financial accounting, management accounting, taxation law, auditing, and commercial law. The course aims to develop skills in financial analysis, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making. Graduates may progress to a master's degree or seek roles in accounting firms, corporate finance, or government. The field of accounting (080101) is a popular choice among international students due to its pathways to professional accreditation (e.g., CPA Australia, CA ANZ) and strong employment outcomes in Australia. Note that this is a single qualification, not a dual or packaged program.
The Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting is registered on CRICOS as a 1-year program (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification with no integrated work component. Students typically study full-time, but part-time options may be available depending on visa conditions. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment. This course does not include foundation studies or a VET national code, as it is a higher education graduate certificate.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$34,500 per year. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, materials) are estimated at A$905, bringing the total to A$35,405. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students. Living expenses vary by location: for example, weekly rent in Melbourne may range from A$200–$400, groceries around A$80–$150, and public transport about A$30–$50. The visa application charge for a Student visa is currently A$710. All fees are set by the institution — check Federation University's website (www.federation.edu.au) for the most current information. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees or commissions.
English language requirements vary by provider, but for a graduate certificate, a typical IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall (with no band below 5.5–6.0) is expected. Equivalent tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. Applicants usually need a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in any discipline. Some providers may accept relevant work experience in lieu of a degree. Foundation or pathway programs are not applicable for this course level. Always check with Federation University Australia for precise entry criteria, as these can change. CRICOS-registered providers must publish their entry requirements clearly.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. Students may, however, seek part-time employment independently, subject to their visa conditions. International students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work must not interfere with study.
This course is delivered at six locations across Australia: (1) Federation University Ballarat – Ballarat, VIC; (2) Federation University Gippsland – Churchill, VIC; (3) Federation University Melbourne – Melbourne, VIC; (4) Federation University Sydney – Sydney, NSW; (5) International Institute of Business and Information Technology (IIBIT Adelaide) – Adelaide, SA; (6) Melbourne Institute of Technology (MIT Sydney) – Sydney, NSW. Each city offers a unique lifestyle. Ballarat and Churchill are regional areas with lower living costs, while Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide are metropolitan hubs with diverse student populations. All campuses are accessible via public transport. Choosing a location depends on your preferences for city size, cost of living, and proximity to industry.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Federation University Australia, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) assessment, sufficient financial capacity to cover fees and living costs, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight when their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. It is essential to comply with visa conditions to maintain your stay. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but recommends consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting at Federation University Australia: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Certificate), field (Accounting), and city. Compare providers using CRICOS data. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements, English language tests, and application deadlines. Submit your application and supporting documents to Federation University Australia. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs, including GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence.
Australia is a leading destination for accounting education, with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. Accounting is on the skilled occupation list, meaning graduates may have pathways to permanent residency. The ESOS Act ensures international student protections, including tuition refunds and course quality. Living costs vary by city: for example, Sydney is more expensive than Ballarat. Consider your budget and career goals. HeadStart Academy's free database includes 26,433 courses across all levels – explore your options today.
Explore this course on Federation University Australia's website or use HeadStart Academy to compare similar Graduate Certificate programs in Accounting across Australia.
Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.