Diploma of Science (UniLink) (Standard) (CRICOS course code 089746M) is a Diploma delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 44 weeks (~10 months). This course is designed for students seeking a pathway to university-level science studies, offering foundational knowledge in natural and physical sciences. It is a single qualification, not part of a dual award or foundation program, and is taught entirely in English at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus in Melbourne, Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00111D), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Swinburne University of Technology is a public university with over 50,000 students, providing a supportive learning environment in one of Australia's most student-friendly cities. This page outlines everything you need to know about the course, from fees and entry requirements to visa guidance and application steps.
Diploma of Science (UniLink) (Standard) (CRICOS course code 089746M) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology. The course falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (broadly 01), specifically 'Other Natural and Physical Sciences' (0199) and more precisely 'Natural and Physical Sciences, n.f.d.' (019900). This level of study provides foundational scientific knowledge and skills, preparing students for further undergraduate studies or entry-level roles in science-related fields. Swinburne's UniLink diplomas are designed as pathway programs, offering a supportive transition into bachelor degrees. The course is delivered over 44 weeks (approximately 10 months) of full-time study, with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification, meaning no dual award or VET national code applies. While there is no mandatory work component, international students may access work rights under their student visa.
As a Diploma of Science (UniLink) (Standard), you will engage with foundational topics across the natural and physical sciences. While the specific syllabus is determined by Swinburne University of Technology, typical subjects include introductory biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and scientific communication. The course aims to develop analytical skills, laboratory techniques, and critical thinking essential for scientific inquiry. Graduates often progress to bachelor degrees in science, engineering, health sciences, or environmental studies. The general capabilities acquired align with AQF Level 5, emphasizing autonomy, problem-solving, and application of knowledge in routine and novel contexts. For a detailed unit outline, consult the provider's website.
The course duration is 44 weeks (~10 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time, face-to-face program delivered at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus in Melbourne, Victoria. All instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification (not dual or embedded). There are no VET national codes associated, as this is a higher education diploma. Students are expected to attend classes, participate in practical sessions, and complete assessments. The 44-week period typically includes breaks or holiday periods as per the academic calendar. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Science (UniLink) (Standard) is A$38,440, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register (A$0). Therefore, the estimated total fee is A$38,440. However, this does not include other compulsory costs for international students such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. According to the Department of Home Affairs, you should budget approximately A$21,041 per year for living costs (as of 2026), plus OSHC (typically A$500–$700 per year for single cover) and the visa application fee (A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with Swinburne University of Technology, as fees are subject to change. Visit their website at https://www.swinburne.edu.au/international for the most up-to-date information.
Entry requirements for Diploma of Science (UniLink) (Standard) are set by Swinburne University of Technology. Based on typical CRICOS data, an English proficiency of IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall is expected (with no band below 5.5 or 6.0 depending on the test provider). You must have completed Year 12 or equivalent with satisfactory grades in science or mathematics subjects. International students who do not meet direct entry may consider foundation studies or pathway programs offered by Swinburne College. Always check the specific entry criteria on the provider's website, as requirements can vary by intake and country of origin. HeadStart Academy does not assess qualifications; contact the provider for individual assessment.
No work component is included in this course. There is no mandatory internship, placement, or work experience required. However, as an international student holding a Subclass 500 visa, you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is not part of the course but can help with living costs. For more details on student work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The course is delivered at two locations, both at the Hawthorn campus in Hawthorn, Victoria (a suburb of Melbourne). The primary location is Hawthorn Campus, John Street, Hawthorn, VIC, affiliated with Swinburne University. Additionally, delivery is also listed at Swinburne College Pty Ltd, Hawthorn Campus, John Street Hawthorn, Hawthorn, VIC. Hawthorn is a vibrant inner-city suburb, approximately 5 km from Melbourne's central business district. Melbourne is home to over 600,000 international students and hosts more than 40 CRICOS-registered providers. Public transport to Hawthorn campus includes trains (Glenferrie station), trams, and buses. The cost of living in Melbourne is moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a room around A$200–$300 and groceries roughly A$100–$150.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled full-time in a CRICOS-registered course like this one. Key conditions include: maintain enrolment, meet attendance and academic progress, hold valid OSHC insurance, and adhere to work limitations (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating intent to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity is a requirement — you must show you can cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. After receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Swinburne, you can apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Science (UniLink) (Standard) at Swinburne University of Technology: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location (Victoria). Compare providers and ensure the course is CRICOS-registered (089746M). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Swinburne's website to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results, and other documents. Submit an online application through the provider's portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If accepted, Swinburne will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online, providing evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE statement. Await visa grant before travelling to Australia.
Victoria is Australia's second-most popular destination for international students, with Melbourne consistently ranked among the world's most livable cities. The state has over 40 CRICOS-registered providers, including eight public universities. Beyond Swinburne, you can find many diploma and bachelor programs in science fields. Melbourne offers a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a thriving arts and food scene. The cost of living is manageable, with weekly expenses around A$400–$600 for a single student (including rent, food, transport, and leisure). However, you need to plan for higher costs in the first few months due to initial setup expenses. Victoria's climate is temperate, with four distinct seasons. If you prefer a smaller city or regional area, consider campuses in Geelong or Ballarat, but for science diplomas, Melbourne has the most options.
All institutions and courses on HeadStart Academy are registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) as at 1 April 2026. Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) is a government-registered provider. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses to international students. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 protects your rights, including tuition fee safeguards and refund policies. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no commission or referral fees. All data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register. We do not provide immigration advice; for visa queries, consult a MARA agent.
Ready to apply? Follow the three-step guide in the 'How to apply' section above.
Diploma of Science (UniLink) (Standard) 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.