Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) Extended (CRICOS course code 085476E) is a Diploma delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year. This course is specifically designed for international students who want to build a strong foundation in information technology before progressing to a bachelor's degree. It covers essential IT disciplines including programming, web development, networking, and database management. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider 00111D), it meets the requirements for the Australian Student visa (Subclass 500). Swinburne University of Technology, a public institution established in 1908, is renowned for its industry-linked curriculum and strong graduate employment outcomes. The Hawthorn campus is just 7 km from Melbourne's CBD, with excellent public transport connections. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 5 million people and a thriving tech sector. With more than 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, this course stands out for its UniLink pathway, which offers additional academic support and a smooth transition to degree-level study. All students benefit from ESOS Act protections and access to overseas student health cover (OSHC). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026).
Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) Extended (CRICOS 085476E) is an AQF Level 5 Diploma delivered by Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D). This course falls under the broad field of Information Technology (02) and specifically under Other Information Technology (0299). It is designed for international students who have completed secondary education and wish to gain foundational IT skills while receiving additional academic support through the UniLink program. The course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian education standards for international students. Swinburne is a government-funded university with a strong reputation for industry partnerships and hands-on learning. All international students are covered by the ESOS Act, which guarantees tuition protection and refund policies. HeadStart Academy sources all provider and course information directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
As a Diploma in Information Technology (n.e.c.), this course provides a broad introduction to IT concepts and practices. Students typically learn programming fundamentals, database design, networking essentials, web development, and systems analysis. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with practical skills for entry-level IT roles or to progress to a bachelor's degree. While specific units are determined by the provider, the field of education 029999 encompasses a wide range of IT topics not elsewhere classified. Graduates often find employment in technical support, junior programming, or continue their studies in areas like computer science or software engineering. The course emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication in a technology context. For a detailed syllabus, prospective students should contact Swinburne directly.
The Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) Extended is a 1-year full-time program, totaling 52 weeks according to the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies component). The program is designed for on-campus study at the Hawthorn campus, with face-to-face classes and access to university facilities. As a full-time course, it meets the standard study load requirements for the Student visa (Subclass 500). International students must maintain satisfactory attendance and course progress to comply with visa conditions. The UniLink model provides additional tutoring and smaller class sizes to support student success.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$30,000 per year, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. This brings the estimated total to A$30,000 for the full program. Please note that these fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Actual fees are set by Swinburne University of Technology and may change without notice. The following costs are NOT included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — mandatory for international students, typically costing A$500–A$700 per year for single cover; living expenses (rent, food, transport) — estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student (Department of Home Affairs guideline); and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with Swinburne before applying.
To be eligible for the Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) Extended, international students generally need to have completed Australian Year 12 (or equivalent) with satisfactory results. English language proficiency is required, typically demonstrated by an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (with no band less than 5.5). Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Students who do not meet direct entry requirements may consider pathway or foundation programs offered by Swinburne. Note that entry requirements are set by the provider and may vary — always check with Swinburne's international admissions office. There is no work component or prior work experience required for admission.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Unlike some vocational programs that incorporate internships or placements, the Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) Extended is purely academic. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can undertake part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays) to gain Australian work experience. ESOS Act protections ensure that any work does not compromise study commitments. Students seeking practical experience should explore elective options or extracurricular internships offered by Swinburne's career services.
The course is delivered at Swinburne College Pty Ltd, Hawthorn Campus, located at John Street Hawthorn, VIC. Hawthorn is a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria's capital city. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The city has a vibrant student population, with excellent public transport including trams and trains. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for a single student (including rent, groceries, and transport). The Hawthorn campus is close to the CBD, providing access to libraries, cafes, and IT industry hubs. International students benefit from a multicultural environment and strong support services.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa requires: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Swinburne, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds (tuition + living costs + travel), OSHC health cover, and English proficiency (if not from an exempt country). Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. Dependents may have different work conditions. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring tuition assurance and refund mechanisms. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) Extended at Swinburne University of Technology:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm Swinburne's CRICOS code (00111D) and course code (085476E) on the official CRICOS register.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Swinburne's international website (https://www.swinburne.edu.au/international) to check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts, English test results, and a completed application form. Swinburne may also require a personal statement or references. Apply well before the semester start.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, Swinburne will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare your GTE statement, financial evidence, OSHC confirmation, and other documents. Visa processing times vary — apply early.
Ready to apply? Start your journey with Swinburne University of Technology today.
Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) Extended is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.