Bachelor of Animation (Character Animation) (CRICOS course code 102834J) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd over 3 years. This course is designed for students who want to specialise in the art of bringing characters to life through animation. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 00312F), it meets Australian standards for international students. The course covers principles of character design, storytelling, and digital animation techniques, preparing graduates for roles in film, television, gaming, and advertising. SAE Institute is a private provider with campuses across Australia, offering hands-on learning in state-of-the-art facilities. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections that apply to all CRICOS-registered courses. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, locations, and visa guidance to help you make an informed decision.
Bachelor of Animation (Character Animation) (CRICOS 102834J) is a 3-year Bachelor Degree at AQF Level 7, delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00312F). The field of education is Visual Arts and Crafts (100399), focusing on the creative and technical skills needed to develop animated characters. Students learn through a combination of theory and practical projects, using industry-standard software. The course does not offer a dual qualification or foundation studies component. A work-integrated learning component of 12 weeks (approximately 80 total hours) is included, providing real-world experience in industry placements or internships. This hands-on approach ensures graduates are job-ready. All instruction is in English, and the course is available at six SAE campuses across Australia.
This program falls under the field of Visual Arts and Crafts, specifically character animation. At the Bachelor Degree level, students develop advanced skills in concept art, rigging, motion capture, and 3D animation. Core subjects typically include character design, storyboarding, digital sculpting, and animation principles. The curriculum also covers narrative development, visual storytelling, and portfolio creation. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with SAE Institute, graduates can expect a comprehensive understanding of the animation pipeline from pre-production to final render. The course emphasises creative problem-solving, teamwork, and technical proficiency, preparing students for careers as character animators, visual development artists, or technical directors.
The course runs for 3 years, which equates to 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English, with no dual qualification options. This is a single Bachelor Degree, meaning students focus solely on animation without additional certifications. Study modes may include on-campus attendance, studio sessions, and project-based learning. SAE Institute provides access to computer labs, editing suites, and animation software. International students should note that the duration meets student visa requirements for Subclass 500. The standard annual load is 52 weeks per year, with scheduled breaks aligned with academic calendars.
The indicative tuition fee for Bachelor of Animation (Character Animation) is A$83,880 over 3 years, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,369, bringing the estimated total to A$85,249. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees are set by SAE Institute Pty Ltd and may vary — always confirm directly with the provider before applying. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$21,041 per year for a single student), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Cost of living differs by city — for example, weekly rent in Adelaide averages A$300–450, in Sydney A$450–700. Use the provider's website for current fee schedules.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0, or an equivalent English test. For this Bachelor Degree level, prior qualifications such as completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent are expected. Applicants may also need to submit a portfolio or attend an interview. Foundation or pathway options are available through the provider — refer to SAE Institute for details. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. All CRICOS-registered providers must assess genuine student status as part of the application. For visa purposes, you will need to demonstrate English proficiency and financial capacity. Always check the latest entry criteria on the provider's website.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, with an estimated total of 80 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) may take the form of an industry placement, internship, or industry project, depending on campus availability. The WIL component is designed to give students practical experience in the animation industry, allowing them to apply classroom skills in real-world settings. It may be completed in studios, production houses, or other relevant workplaces. Students are typically supervised and assessed as part of the course. This experience not only enhances employability but also provides networking opportunities. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for such work activities (see visa section).
SAE Institute delivers this course at six campuses across Australia, each in a state capital or major regional centre: - SAE Adelaide — Adelaide, SA - SAE Brisbane — West End, QLD - SAE Byron Bay — Byron Bay, NSW - SAE Melbourne — South Melbourne, VIC - SAE Perth — Northbridge, WA - SAE Sydney — Chippendale, NSW
Each campus offers similar facilities and equipment, but local amenities and lifestyle vary. Adelaide has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a lower cost of living; Byron Bay is a coastal town with a creative community; Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney are major hubs with diverse student populations. All campuses are accessible by public transport. For example, SAE Sydney is a short walk from Central Station. Choosing a location depends on personal preference, climate, and career opportunities. South Australia, for instance, has a growing film industry, while Sydney and Melbourne have larger animation studios.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily. Onshore students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). You will need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from SAE Institute. Financial evidence must show you can cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, but only those enrolled in CRICOS-registered courses are eligible for a student visa. This course is registered, so you are on the right track.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Animation (Character Animation) at SAE Institute Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use the official CRICOS register to verify SAE Institute's registration (00312F) and the course code (102834J). Compare similar courses in animation across different states.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Check SAE Institute's entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications, portfolio) and application deadlines. Submit your application online with supporting documents.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once accepted, SAE Institute will issue a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Ready to start your animation journey? Contact SAE Institute today for application details and course updates.
Bachelor of Animation (Character Animation) 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.