Diploma of Graphic Design (CRICOS course code 094748M) is a Diploma delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year. This nationally recognised AQF Level 5 qualification equips students with practical skills in visual communication, typography, digital media, and design thinking. SAE Institute is a private CRICOS-registered provider (00312F) with campuses across Australia. International students who complete this diploma can pursue roles as graphic designers, digital artists, or creative directors, or articulate into bachelor-level study. The course is offered in six Australian cities, giving students flexibility in choosing their study location. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,433 courses, the Diploma of Graphic Design stands out as a focused pathway into the creative arts sector. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Indicative fees for this course are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition is A$27,960, non-tuition fees are A$623, giving an estimated total of A$28,583. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always refer to SAE Institute's website (www.sae.edu.au). Living costs vary by city: for example, weekly rent in Adelaide averages A$350–A$500, in Sydney A$500–A$800. Use the Australian Government's indicative living cost of A$21,041 per year (for a single student) as a guide. OSHC cover costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year depending on the provider. All fees are subject to change – confirm directly with SAE Institute before applying.
The Diploma of Graphic Design is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies) delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) full-time. Language of instruction is English. The course does not include a mandatory work component, though students may undertake part-time work (subject to visa conditions) to gain local experience. Study mode is typically on-campus at one of SAE Institute's six locations: Adelaide, Brisbane, Byron Bay, Melbourne, Perth, or Sydney. Each campus offers studio-based learning with access to modern equipment. International students should note that the 52-week duration includes scheduled holidays, and the CRICOS register confirms this as the standard length.
Indicative fees for this course are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition is A$27,960, non-tuition fees are A$623, giving an estimated total of A$28,583. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always refer to SAE Institute's website (www.sae.edu.au). Living costs vary by city: for example, weekly rent in Adelaide averages A$350–A$500, in Sydney A$500–A$800. Use the Australian Government's indicative living cost of A$21,041 per year (for a single student) as a guide. OSHC cover costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year depending on the provider. All fees are subject to change – confirm directly with SAE Institute before applying.
International students need to meet both English language and academic requirements. The typical English requirement for this diploma level is IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected include completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) in your home country. SAE Institute may offer pathway options such as foundation studies if you don't meet direct entry requirements – contact the provider for details. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; each application is assessed individually. HeadStart Academy recommends checking SAE's website for the most up-to-date entry criteria. All CRICOS-registered providers must adhere to ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student support.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain Australian work experience while studying. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website.
The Diploma of Graphic Design is delivered at six SAE Institute campuses across Australia: SAE Adelaide (Adelaide, SA), SAE Brisbane (West End, QLD), SAE Byron Bay (Byron Bay, NSW), SAE Melbourne (South Melbourne, VIC), SAE Perth (Northbridge, WA), and SAE Sydney (Chippendale, NSW). Each campus is located in a creative hub with access to galleries, design studios, and networking events. Adelaide is known for its affordable living and strong arts scene; Brisbane offers a growing creative industry; Byron Bay provides a unique coastal lifestyle; Melbourne is Australia's design capital; Perth has a vibrant small-city vibe; and Sydney boasts world-class agencies. Consider your personal preferences for lifestyle, climate, and career opportunities when choosing a location.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year), OSHC, and travel, and English proficiency (e.g., IELTS). Work rights: 48 hours/fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend classes, and meet course progress requirements. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your visa – it covers medical and hospital costs. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free resource to compare courses and providers. Filter by level (Diploma), field (Graphic Design), and location. Confirm SAE Institute is CRICOS-registered (00312F). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit SAE Institute's website (www.sae.edu.au), check entry requirements (IELTS, prior qualifications), prepare your portfolio if required, and submit an application. Pay attention to application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, SAE will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online through ImmiAccount. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and evidence of funds. Visa processing times vary – apply early.
Ready to start your creative journey? Follow our 3-step guide above and apply directly to SAE Institute today.
Diploma of Graphic Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at SAE Institute Pty Ltd. 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.