Diploma of Engineering (UniLink) Extended (CRICOS course code 085478C) is a Diploma delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year. This program is designed for international students who want to build a strong foundation in engineering and related technologies before progressing to a bachelor's degree. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00111D), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Delivered at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus in Melbourne, Victoria, the course offers hands-on learning in a supportive environment. With an indicative tuition fee of A$33,000, it provides an affordable pathway to higher education. All fees are set by the institution and may change, so always confirm directly with Swinburne. HeadStart Academy sources data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. While this page offers guidance, we are not a registered migration agent and recommend consulting a MARA agent for visa advice. International students also benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
This Diploma falls under the field of Education 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically 039999 - Engineering and Related Technologies, n.e.c. Graduates typically gain foundational knowledge in engineering principles, mathematics, physics, and problem-solving skills. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between secondary education and university-level engineering studies. Although specific units may vary, students can expect topics such as engineering mechanics, materials science, basic circuit theory, and engineering design. The course emphasises both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing students for further study or entry-level roles in engineering support. As a Diploma (AQF Level 5), it is equivalent to the first year of a bachelor's degree in many cases. Swinburne’s UniLink model integrates additional academic support to help international students succeed. The course is delivered entirely in English, and all teaching staff are qualified according to Australian standards. For detailed syllabus information, refer to Swinburne's official course page.
The Diploma of Engineering (UniLink) Extended is a full-time course with a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no foundation studies component, nor a mandatory work component. Students attend classes on campus and are expected to commit approximately 20 hours per week to lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions. Additional self-study time is recommended. The course structure is designed to be completed within the standard CRICOS duration, but extensions are possible subject to visa conditions. Swinburne offers intakes typically in February, July, and November; check the provider's website for exact dates. International students must maintain full-time enrollment as per their student visa conditions. The course is not available online; all delivery is face-to-face at the Hawthorn campus in Melbourne.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Engineering (UniLink) Extended is A$33,000 per year, with no non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$33,000. These fees are set by Swinburne University of Technology and are subject to change. The CRICOS register indicates these amounts as at April 2026, but always confirm current fees directly with the provider at swinburne.edu.au/international. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (approximately A$500-A$700 per year for single cover); living expenses (approx. A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs); and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Scholarships may be available from Swinburne for eligible students. HeadStart Academy provides this fee information as a guide only; we do not guarantee amounts. For a full breakdown, contact the institution or refer to their official website.
Typical entry requirements for the Diploma of Engineering (UniLink) Extended include an overall IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent English language test) and completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling. Some academic background in mathematics and science is recommended. Swinburne may also accept foundation programs or pathway courses from approved providers. Specific prerequisite subjects are not listed on the CRICOS register, so refer to the institution for detailed entry criteria. International students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and have sufficient financial capacity. English language waivers may be possible for applicants from certain countries. Always check the course page on Swinburne's website for the most up-to-date entry requirements. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; for tailored advice, consult a registered migration agent or the provider directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This work is not part of the curriculum and does not contribute to academic credit. Swinburne may offer optional internship or work experience opportunities outside the course structure, but these are not guaranteed. International students should ensure work does not interfere with their study commitments, and must comply with visa work conditions. For more information about work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs or the student visa section on our site.
This course is delivered at Swinburne University of Technology’s Hawthorn campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122. Hawthorn is an inner-city suburb of Melbourne, approximately 6 km east of the CBD. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community (over 200,000 students). The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Hawthorn itself offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with cafes, libraries, and parks within walking distance. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$500-A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, but can vary by lifestyle. The campus provides modern facilities including engineering labs, libraries, and student support services. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00111D), Swinburne complies with the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student welfare.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Swinburne, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and family members, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The current visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). Student work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during course periods and unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must maintain full-time enrollment and satisfactory course progress. The ESOS Act provides protections including refund policies and access to the Overseas Students Ombudsman. For detailed visa advice, we recommend consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or visiting the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for Diploma of Engineering (UniLink) Extended at Swinburne University of Technology is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers using HeadStart Academy's directory. Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Engineering), and location (Victoria) to compare options. 2. Apply directly to Swinburne through their online application portal. Ensure you meet entry requirements including IELTS 5.5-6.0 and academic qualifications. Prepare documents like transcripts, English test results, and a passport copy. Check application deadlines, as intakes vary. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Swinburne and use it to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Once your visa is granted, you can plan your travel to Melbourne. For personalised assistance, contact Swinburne International directly.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, offering a vibrant multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a strong job market in engineering. The city has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you a wide choice of courses. Living costs are moderate, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–A$350, groceries about A$80–A$120, and a public transport myki pass at A$10–A$20 per week (concession). The city's climate is temperate with four seasons. Hawthorn campus is close to the city centre, allowing easy access to cultural and recreational activities. However, consider your personal preferences: if you prefer a quieter lifestyle, regional Victoria may be more suitable. Always research accommodation options and connect with student communities before arriving. HeadStart Academy provides location guides to help you decide, but ultimately the choice is yours.
Ready to start your engineering journey? Explore Diploma of Engineering (UniLink) Extended on Swinburne's website or contact their international team for personalised advice.
Diploma of Engineering (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.