Diploma of Animation & VFX (CRICOS course code 104513K) is a Diploma delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), meaning it meets Australian Government standards for delivery to international students. As a Diploma level course (AQF Level 5), it provides a foundation in graphic arts and design studies, specifically within the Creative Arts field. Collarts, the trading name of Australian College of the Arts, is a private institution based in Melbourne, Victoria. The course is designed to equip students with practical skills in animation and visual effects, preparing them for entry-level roles in the creative industries. With a strong focus on industry engagement, students learn through hands-on projects and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Melbourne is home to over 250 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a vibrant destination for international students. The cost of living in Melbourne is estimated at around AUD 1,500–2,000 per month for a single student, covering rent, food, and transport. HeadStart Academy sources all course data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
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The Diploma of Animation & VFX falls under the field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 1005 - Graphic and Design Studies (100501 - Graphic Arts and Design Studies). At this AQF Level 5, students typically learn foundational and applied skills in design principles, digital animation techniques, visual storytelling, and industry-standard software. While the exact syllabus is set by Collarts, graduates of similar programs often gain competencies in 2D and 3D animation, compositing, visual effects, and project management. The course aims to develop creative problem-solving and technical proficiency necessary for roles such as junior animator, VFX artist, or motion graphics designer. It is a single qualification (no dual or foundation study) and is taught entirely in English.
The course runs for 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. Students attend classes at one of Collarts' campuses in Collingwood or Fitzroy. There is no work component included, but students can work part-time while studying under their student visa conditions. The program is not a VET course, so no VET national code applies.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Animation & VFX is A$45,000, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, making the estimated total A$45,000. Please note: these fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Always confirm the current fee structure directly with Collarts before applying. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are not included in this total. For the most up-to-date fee information, visit the provider's website: www.collarts.edu.au.
International students must meet English language proficiency requirements. For this Diploma, an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall is typically expected (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should have completed Australian Year 12 or an equivalent qualification. Some prior study in arts or design may be advantageous. Collarts may also consider applicants with relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway programs are available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements — please consult the provider for details. Remember, entry requirements can vary, so check directly with Collarts or a registered education agent.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are granted under the Student visa (Subclass 500).
The Diploma of Animation & VFX is delivered at three locations in Melbourne, Victoria: 208 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC; 67-69 Cromwell Street, Collingwood VIC; and Level 2, 156 George Street, Fitzroy VIC. Collingwood and Fitzroy are inner-city suburbs with strong creative communities, well-connected by public transport (trams and trains). Melbourne's CBD is a short tram ride away. The city has a large international student population, with over 250,000 international students enrolled across various institutions. Studying in Melbourne offers access to a thriving arts scene, numerous galleries, and potential networking opportunities.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time and work part-time as mentioned. All students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. For detailed visa information, refer to the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Before choosing this course, consider your career goals in the animation and VFX industry. Australia has a growing creative sector, especially in Melbourne and Sydney. Research the specific software and skills taught in the Diploma to ensure they align with industry demands. Also, factor in living costs: Melbourne's weekly rent for a shared apartment averages around AUD 200–350, groceries AUD 80–150, and transport AUD 30–50. With fees of AUD 45,000, this represents a significant investment. Check if Collarts offers any scholarships or payment plans. Additionally, confirm that the course meets your personal study preferences — full-time, on-campus, with no work component. For more options, explore other CRICOS-registered Diplomas in Creative Arts across Australia.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's search tools to filter Diplomas in Animation & VFX at CRICOS-registered providers like Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03392K). Compare courses, fees, and locations. 2. Apply directly to Collarts: Visit www.collarts.edu.au to check specific entry requirements, submit your application, and provide evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 5.5–6.0). Note application deadlines and required documents. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, you'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Explore more Diplomas in Victoria or search for other Animation & VFX courses on HeadStart Academy.
View the full Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Animation & VFX is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of the Arts 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.