Diploma of Automotive Technology (CRICOS course code 102856C) is a Diploma delivered by Cambridge Academy of English Pty Ltd over 1 year. This program equips students with advanced technical skills in automotive engineering and technology, preparing them for roles in vehicle repair, diagnostics, and management. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 01796F), it meets Australian quality standards for international students. Delivered at the Brisbane campus in Fortitude Valley, the course provides hands-on training in a growing industry. Whether you plan to work as a mechanic or pursue further study, this diploma opens doors in Australia's vibrant automotive sector. HeadStart Academy, as a free resource, helps you navigate CRICOS data and visa requirements to make informed choices. All information here is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trust.
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Diploma of Automotive Technology (CRICOS 102856C) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) offered by Cambridge Academy of English Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (01796F) located in Brisbane, Queensland. The course falls under the field of education 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically 0305 - Automotive Engineering and Technology (n.e.c.). This one-year program (52 weeks) is delivered in English and leads to a single qualification with no mandatory work component. The indicative tuition fee is A$13,800, with zero non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, making the estimated total A$13,800. However, students should budget separately for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$1,200–A$1,800 per month in Brisbane), and the visa application charge. Cambridge Academy of English Pty Ltd has been delivering vocational education in Queensland, serving a diverse international student body. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this diploma represents a specialised pathway in the automotive field.
This diploma focuses on automotive engineering and technology, covering areas such as engine repair, electrical systems, transmission, steering and suspension, and diagnostic techniques. At the AQF Level 5, graduates typically develop theoretical and practical skills for technical and supervisory roles. The curriculum emphasises industry-standard practices, safety protocols, and emerging technologies in electric and hybrid vehicles. While the specific syllabus is set by Cambridge Academy of English, students can expect a blend of classroom learning and workshop-based training. The national VET code AUR50216 aligns with the Australian automotive industry's competencies. This field is critical as Australia's automotive sector evolves, with increasing demand for skilled technicians in cities like Brisbane, where over 30,000 international students study across numerous registered providers. Understanding the ESOS Act protections is essential – international students have the right to quality education and consumer safeguards.
The Diploma of Automotive Technology is a full-time course completed in 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English, which is typical for CRICOS-registered courses to ensure international students can meet academic and workplace requirements. This is a single qualification program; there are no dual or foundation study options attached. Students should consider the full-time study load required for compliance with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course is delivered at the Brisbane Campus in Fortitude Valley, a central location with excellent public transport access via trains and buses. Brisbane's cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney and Melbourne; for example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages A$400–A$500 per week, while groceries and transport add A$150–A$250 weekly. Remember that OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for the entire visa duration.
According to the CRICOS register as at April 2026, the indicative tuition fee for this course is A$13,800, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0. The estimated total fee is therefore A$13,800. However, these amounts are set by the institution and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Cambridge Academy of English at their website (www.cambridgeqld.com) before applying. Additional costs not included are: OSHC (approx. A$500–A$700 per year for single coverage), living expenses in Brisbane (approx. A$1,200–A$1,800 per month), and the student visa application charge (currently A$710 for the main applicant, subject to change). HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting at least A$20,000–A$25,000 per year for total study and living costs in Brisbane. Financial capacity is a key requirement for the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion in visa applications.
Admission to the Diploma of Automotive Technology typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. For international students, an English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (with no band below 5.0–5.5) is common. Cambridge Academy of English may also accept other recognised tests like PTE or TOEFL. Some students may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if they don't meet direct entry requirements – contact the provider for options. Also, prior qualifications in a related vocational field may be considered. Note that meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application individually. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent, so for personalised advice, consult a registered MARA agent.
This course has no mandatory work component. According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Automotive Technology (102856C) does not include any work experience or internship requirements. However, students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs in Brisbane. Always check your visa label or VEVO for specific condition details. The absence of a work component means the course focuses entirely on classroom and practical training at the campus.
The Diploma of Automotive Technology is delivered at the Brisbane Campus located at: [Address, not provided but implied] in Fortitude Valley, Queensland. Fortitude Valley is a vibrant inner-city suburb just 2 km from Brisbane's Central Business District, easily accessible via train, bus, and ferry. Brisbane is home to over 100,000 international students studying at more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus benefits from proximity to automotive industry hubs and workshops. Students can use public transport with a go card; weekly transport costs average A$30–A$50. Fortitude Valley offers a mix of affordable housing, eateries, and cultural venues, making it a popular area for students.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This requires: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Cambridge Academy of English, demonstrated English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting health and character requirements. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring quality standards and student rights. Brisbane living costs (excluding tuition) are estimated at A$1,200–A$1,800 per month. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of at least A$20,000 per year for living costs (as of 2026). Always check current requirements at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Brisbane offers a warm climate, a strong job market in trades and engineering, and a growing international student community. With over 200 registered providers, it's a competitive yet affordable study destination. The cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, yet the city boasts excellent facilities and transport links. For automotive studies, Queensland has a robust automotive sector, with many workshops and dealerships in the Brisbane area. However, consider that the campus location (Fortitude Valley) is central, so accommodation options range from student housing in the CBD to shared houses in suburbs like Kelvin Grove or New Farm. If you prefer a quieter setting, other providers might offer suburban campuses. HeadStart Academy's free resource allows you to compare other automotive courses in QLD and across Australia.
Ready to start your journey? Research more CRICOS-registered automotive courses on HeadStart Academy, or visit the Cambridge Academy of English website to apply.
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Diploma of Automotive Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Cambridge Academy of English 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.