Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting) (CRICOS course code 093587J) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 3 years. This undergraduate program, offered at AQF Level 7, immerses students in the creative arts with a focus on screenwriting for film, television, and digital media. As a CRICOS-registered course (registered under provider CRICOS 00116K), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment, ensuring access to student visa pathways and ESOS Act protections. Whether you aspire to write for the screen or develop narrative skills across media, this degree provides a structured curriculum combining theory and practice. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate options like this one at Victoria's prestigious University of Melbourne. This page offers an independent overview of the course, fees, entry requirements, and application steps — all sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting) (CRICOS course code 093587J) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 3 years. This course falls under the field of Audio Visual Studies (broad field 10 - Creative Arts, narrow field 1007 - Communication and Media Studies, detailed field 100701 - Audio Visual Studies). It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component, and is taught entirely in English. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00116K), it complies with Australian Government standards for international education, including the ESOS Act. Students can be confident that the provider is government-funded and subject to ongoing quality assurance. The University of Melbourne is a Go8 university consistently ranked among the world's best, offering a vibrant study environment in Melbourne, a city with over 100,000 international students and 200+ CRICOS-registered providers. The course is delivered at the Southbank campus, close to Melbourne's arts precinct.
As a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7), this program provides a comprehensive foundation in screenwriting and production. Students explore narrative structure, character development, dialogue, and script formatting, while also gaining exposure to film and media studies. Graduates typically develop critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and collaborative skills essential for the screen industry. The curriculum blends theoretical frameworks with practical workshops, preparing students for roles in film, television, streaming, and digital content creation. While specific syllabus details are set by the institution, the field of Audio Visual Studies at this level often includes modules on screen history, genre studies, and industry practice. This degree equips students with a portfolio of work and the confidence to pitch ideas in a competitive global market.
According to the CRICOS register, Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting) has a duration of 3 years (156 weeks). The course is delivered full-time in English. It is a single qualification, meaning students graduate with one degree without additional dual qualifications. There is no foundation studies program attached; however, pathway options may be available through the provider for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Study is conducted on-campus at the Southbank location, with access to University of Melbourne's facilities and resources. International students should be aware that the standard student visa (Subclass 500) allows full-time study and work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term, with unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
Course fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change — always confirm directly with the provider before applying. For Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting), the indicative tuition fee is A$128,724 for the full 3-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$150, giving an estimated total of A$128,874. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, visa application charges, or travel. Living costs in Melbourne are around A$500-700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. OSHC is mandatory for international students. For current fee details, visit The University of Melbourne's website at http://www.unimelb.edu.au/.
Entry requirements for Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting) vary by applicant background. As a general guide, international students need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall with no band below 5.5-6.0. Other accepted tests include TOEFL and PTE. Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12, and may require a portfolio or audition. Foundation or pathway programs are available through the University of Melbourne or affiliated colleges for those who do not meet direct entry. Always refer to the provider's website for precise academic and language requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the admissions team or a registered education agent for personalised guidance.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. As per the CRICOS register, there is no work placement or internship requirement. However, the student visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Many students choose to gain part-time experience in Melbourne's thriving creative industries. The lack of a compulsory work component means students can focus on academic studies while having flexibility to seek paid or volunteer opportunities independently.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting) is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Southbank campus, located at 234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank, VIC. This campus is in Melbourne's arts and cultural precinct, near the National Gallery of Victoria, the Arts Centre, and the Melbourne Theatre Company. Southbank is a vibrant inner-city suburb with excellent public transport connections via tram and train. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, making it Australia's largest student city with a diverse international community. The location offers a unique blend of academic and creative opportunities, with easy access to cafes, galleries, and live music venues. Living costs in Southbank and surrounding suburbs range from A$500 to A$700 per week for shared accommodation.
To study Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting) in Australia, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the University of Melbourne, sufficient financial capacity, English proficiency, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The visa includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Applicants must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. OSHC provides medical insurance during your stay. Visa processing times vary; check the Department of Home Affairs website for current information. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent for visa advice.
Applying for Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting) at The University of Melbourne involves three simple steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like this one across different states and levels. Filter by CRICOS code, field, and location to find your ideal program.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the University of Melbourne's website to check specific entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. You may need to submit a portfolio or attend an interview. Prepare your academic transcripts and personal statement.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this along with OSHC and financial proof to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Plan to apply at least 8-12 weeks before your course starts.
For detailed guidance, refer to the provider's official admissions page or contact their international student support team.
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View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Screenwriting) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). 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.