Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning (CRICOS course code 098153F) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This program is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge in banking and finance, specifically in financial planning. Located at UniSA's City West Campus in Adelaide, South Australia, the course provides a pathway to professional roles in financial advisory, wealth management, and investment planning. With a tuition fee of A$42,000 and no mandatory work component, students can focus on academic development while enjoying the vibrant student life of Adelaide. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy is your free resource to explore this and 26,433 other CRICOS-registered courses across Australia. Below, we break down everything you need to know about this program—from entry requirements to visa guidance—so you can make an informed decision.
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Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning (CRICOS course code 098153F) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) offered by University of South Australia (UniSA), a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00121B). The course sits under the field of Banking, Finance and Related Fields (081101 - Banking and Finance), providing specialised training in financial planning principles, investment strategies, and client advisory services. With a duration of 55 weeks (1 year 1 month), this full-time program is taught in English and awards a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. Students will graduate equipped with the skills to navigate complex financial markets and regulatory frameworks, preparing them for roles such as financial planner, investment analyst, or wealth manager. All courses at HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you have access to the most current provider and course data. UniSA is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of banking and finance. While specific subjects are set by the provider, students at this AQF Level 8 typically engage with topics such as financial planning regulations, risk management, retirement planning, tax strategies, and investment portfolio construction. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking and analytical skills applicable to the financial services industry. Graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of the Australian financial system and global investment markets. As the course is at Graduate Diploma level, it builds on prior undergraduate knowledge, offering depth in specialised areas. For a detailed syllabus, you should consult University of South Australia directly, as the CRICOS register provides only the field and level. This course falls under Field 08 - Management and Commerce, specifically 0811 - Banking, Finance and Related Fields.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning has a total duration of 55 weeks (1 year 1 month) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is the standard full-time study period, delivered on-campus at the University of South Australia's City West Campus in Adelaide. The language of instruction is English, and the course leads to a single qualification with no dual or joint degree options. No foundation studies or VET components are included. International students should note that the CRICOS duration is the minimum time required to complete the course; individual study pace may vary under provider policies. This duration aligns with typical postgraduate diploma structures in Australia, allowing intensive study in a specialised field.
Tuition fees for the Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning are indicative at A$42,000 total for the 55-week duration. There are no mandatory non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register (A$0), bringing the estimated total course fee to A$42,000. These fees are set by University of South Australia (UniSA) and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: This amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current and exact fees, always refer to the provider's website at www.unisa.edu.au. International students should budget for additional costs: Adelaide's average weekly living expenses (rent, groceries, transport) are around A$400-A$600, and OSHC typically costs A$600-A$1,000 per year. The student visa (Subclass 500) application charge is currently A$710 (as at April 2026). As HeadStart Academy, we provide indicative data only—fees are subject to change and should be confirmed directly with the institution.
While specific entry requirements are set by University of South Australia (UniSA), this Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) generally expects applicants to hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field. English language proficiency is required: typical minimum scores are IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (no band below a certain threshold, as specified by the provider). Some institutions may accept alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE. No foundation or pathway options are listed for this course, but UniSA may offer bridging programs—check with the provider. If you do not meet the academic requirements, you may consider a Graduate Certificate first or pathways through other CRICOS-registered providers. Always consult the official provider website or admissions office for precise entry criteria.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake work experience, internships, or placements as part of the program. This allows full focus on academic studies. However, during the course, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights can help offset living costs, but should not interfere with study commitments.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning is delivered at the University of South Australia's City West Campus, located in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a vibrant capital city known for its affordable living, strong student community, and access to quality education. The city hosts over 30,000 international students across multiple universities and colleges. Public transport is accessible, with trams and buses connecting the campus to suburbs and the city centre. Adelaide's cost of living is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne; indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom city apartment is A$300-A$450, while groceries and transport add A$150-A$250 weekly. The campus itself is modern, with facilities for finance students including libraries and computer labs. This location offers a safe, study-friendly environment with many student services.
To study this course, international students need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course—such as this one—and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. You must also hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As a visa holder, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Course fees and living expenses are important factors in the financial capacity assessment. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) for official guidance. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights, including tuition fee refunds and access to grievance processes.
Applying for the Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at University of South Australia (UniSA) involves three key steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers—use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Banking and Finance), and location (Adelaide). Ensure the course code 098153F meets your goals. 2) Apply directly to UniSA—check specific entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts and English test scores (e.g., IELTS 5.5-6.0), and submit your application via the provider's online portal. Note application deadlines (often semesters starting February and July). 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student Visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need the CoE as proof of enrolment. Once your visa is granted, plan your travel and OSHC cover. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you compare options—no referral fees or commissions.
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is Australia's fifth-largest city with a population of about 1.3 million. It is known for its affordable lifestyle, vibrant cultural scene, and welcoming community for international students. The city has over 30,000 international students enrolled across multiple CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne: average weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$200-A$300, while a one-bedroom is A$300-A$450. Groceries and transport add A$150-A$250 weekly. Public transport includes trams, buses, and trains, with student concession fares. Adelaide also offers beautiful beaches, parks, and festivals. For a financial planning student, the city has a growing financial services sector with opportunities for networking and part-time work. Consider your preferences for climate (Mediterranean, mild winters and warm summers), lifestyle, and proximity to other Australian capitals. HeadStart Academy helps you weigh these factors against other study destinations.
Ready to apply? Start by searching more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy. Compare providers, fees, and locations to find your perfect fit. Remember: all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is free to access—no strings attached.
View the full University of South Australia (UniSA) profile →
Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of South Australia (UniSA). 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.