Bachelor of Aviation (Commercial Pilot) (CRICOS course code 097033M) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Central Queensland University over 3 years. This degree is designed to prepare students for a career as a commercial pilot, combining theoretical knowledge in aerospace engineering with practical flight training. Offered at the Cairns campus in Queensland, the course includes a work-integrated learning component of 48 weeks (5 hours per week) to build real-world skills. International students can study this course on a Student visa (Subclass 500). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian quality standards under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
This course falls under the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology (031505 - Aircraft Operation). At the Bachelor Degree level (AQF Level 7), students typically learn advanced principles of aircraft operation, aviation safety, aerodynamics, navigation, and flight planning. Graduates develop competencies in piloting, crew resource management, and regulatory compliance. The curriculum balances academic theory with practical flight experience, preparing students for commercial pilot licenses and airline careers. While specific subjects are set by Central Queensland University, the course aims to produce graduates who can meet industry standards in aviation.
The Bachelor of Aviation (Commercial Pilot) is a 3-year program (156 weeks as per the CRICOS register). It is offered full-time in English. This is a single qualification (no dual degree or foundation studies). Classes are delivered at the Cairns campus. The course includes a mandatory work component (see below). All international students must maintain full-time enrollment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$214,671, with non-tuition fees of A$4,100, giving an estimated total of A$218,771. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Please confirm current fees directly with Central Queensland University at www.cqu.edu.au. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For living costs, Cairns is generally more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne; weekly rent for a student may range from A$200–A$350, plus groceries and transport.
Typical entry requirements for this Bachelor Degree include completion of Australian Year 12 (or equivalent) with prerequisite subjects in mathematics and possibly physics. English language proficiency is required: IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Some providers also require a medical fitness test for pilot training. If you do not meet these requirements, pathway options may be available through foundation programs or diplomas – check with Central Queensland University for details. Always verify the latest requirements directly with the institution.
This course includes a work-integrated learning component of 48 weeks, totaling approximately 240 hours (5 hours per week). This is designed to provide practical industry experience through placements such as flight training sessions, internships with airlines, or simulated operational environments. Work-integrated learning helps students apply theoretical skills in real-world settings and is a critical part of preparing for commercial pilot roles.
This course is delivered at the Cairns C.Q.U. Campus in Cairns, Queensland. Cairns is a major regional city in tropical North Queensland, known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and a growing aviation sector. The city has several CRICOS-registered providers offering diverse courses. Cairns offers a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with a friendly student community and good public transport connections to the campus. The campus itself provides modern facilities including flight simulators and training aircraft.
International students studying this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, with work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs assesses all applications. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for visa advice.
To apply for the Bachelor of Aviation (Commercial Pilot) at Central Queensland University, follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Confirm the course is registered (CRICOS 097033M). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, English test scores, and meet any specific prerequisites (e.g., medical fitness). Apply through CQU's online portal before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, CQU will issue a CoE. Then submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Ready to start your aviation career? Explore more CRICOS-registered courses in engineering and related technologies on HeadStart Academy, or visit Central Queensland University's website to apply.
Bachelor of Aviation (Commercial Pilot) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland University. 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.