Are you an international student looking to advance your IT career in Australia? The Advanced Diploma of Information Technology (CRICOS course code 105228G) is a 2-year, AQF Level 6 program delivered by Strathfield College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02736K). This course equips you with high-level technical and management skills in areas such as network security, cloud computing, and project management. With an indicative tuition fee of A$20,400 and no mandatory work component, it's a focused pathway to skilled employment or further study. Strathfield College is a private CRICOS-registered provider with campuses in Melbourne and Surry Hills (Sydney), giving you the flexibility to study in two of Australia's most vibrant cities. At HeadStart Academy, we provide free, data-driven guidance to help you find the right CRICOS-registered course for your goals. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
The Advanced Diploma of Information Technology (CRICOS course code 105228G) is an Advanced Diploma delivered by Strathfield College Pty Ltd over 2 years (104 weeks). This qualification is classified under the field of education 02 - Information Technology, specifically Computer Science (020199). As an AQF Level 6 Advanced Diploma, it builds on foundational IT knowledge and prepares students for roles such as ICT project manager, network administrator, or systems analyst. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international education. Strathfield College, established as a private provider, offers this program in English with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The VET national code for this course is ICT60220. Importantly, this course does not include a mandatory work component, allowing students to focus on academic study and potentially undertake part-time work under student visa conditions.
The Advanced Diploma of Information Technology covers advanced concepts within the broad field of Computer Science. While specific syllabi vary by provider, typical learning outcomes include designing and managing complex IT systems, implementing cybersecurity strategies, leading technology projects, and analysing organisational needs for IT solutions. Students develop skills in programming, database management, network infrastructure, and digital innovation. This level of study is ideal for those who have completed a Diploma in IT or have equivalent industry experience. The course is designed to produce graduates who can operate at a managerial or senior technical level in a range of IT environments. Because the course is CRICOS-registered, the curriculum adheres to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) standards, ensuring consistency and quality across providers. For precise subject details, please refer to Strathfield College's official website.
According to the CRICOS register, this Advanced Diploma of Information Technology has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual award). The course is not classified as foundation studies. Full-time study is typical for international students to meet student visa requirements of 20 hours per week of scheduled contact time. Strathfield College may offer flexible study options; however, the CRICOS duration reflects the expected full-time completion time. Students should ensure they can commit to the full 104 weeks to maintain their Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and visa compliance. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this program is one of many Advanced Diplomas available in the IT field. Always check the provider's website for the most current timetable and delivery mode.
The indicative tuition fee for the Advanced Diploma of Information Technology is A$20,400 for the entire course. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but students should budget for compulsory expenses like Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. These are NOT included in the indicative total. Living costs vary by location: in Melbourne, weekly costs (rent, food, transport) are approximately A$350–A$500; in Sydney, expect A$400–A$550. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of financial capacity to cover these costs. Always confirm current fees directly with Strathfield College by visiting their website at www.strathfieldcollege.edu.au. Fees are subject to change and may not include additional expenses such as textbooks, equipment, or material fees. HeadStart Academy sources data from the official CRICOS register, which provides indicative costs only.
For the Advanced Diploma of Information Technology, applicants typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent English language test). Prior qualifications expected include completion of a Diploma in a related IT field or at least one year of tertiary study. Some providers may require relevant work experience. This course does not have a foundation studies pathway; however, Strathfield College may offer alternative entry arrangements. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and provide evidence of financial capacity. It is essential to check the specific entry criteria on Strathfield College's website or contact their admissions team. Since HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend consulting a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa-specific advice. All providers listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring they are approved to enrol international students.
There is no mandatory work component included in this course. This means the Advanced Diploma of Information Technology is purely academic, with no requirement for students to complete work placements or internships as part of their studies. However, 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. This provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in the IT field or support living costs. Students should remember that work rights are secondary to study obligations and must not interfere with course progression. For detailed work condition information, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
This course is delivered at two locations in Australia: Level 8, 108 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC (Melbourne CBD) and Suite 2, Lvl 2, 136 Chalmers Street, Surry Hills NSW (Surry Hills, near Sydney CBD). Both cities are major education hubs with large international student populations. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and has excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) making the Lonsdale Street campus easily accessible. Sydney (Surry Hills) is close to Central Station, with a vibrant tech scene and student community. Living costs in Melbourne are generally slightly lower than in Sydney. When choosing a campus, consider your lifestyle preferences and career connections. Australia's ESOS Act protects international students' rights at both locations. Always verify the exact campus address and facilities with Strathfield College.
To study this Advanced Diploma in Australia, you will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500) or, if you are under 18, a Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this CRICOS course, evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 5.5–6.0 or equivalent), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the course duration, and financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion must be satisfied to demonstrate your intention to stay temporarily. Work rights: 48 hours/fortnight during study terms, unlimited during breaks. Visa conditions may vary, so always check the Department of Home Affairs website. Note that HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a MARA-registered agent for personalised assistance. ESOS Act protections apply, including tuition protection and a complaints process.
Ready to begin your application for the Advanced Diploma of Information Technology at Strathfield College? Follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Compare multiple providers to find the best fit. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered (1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses as of April 2026).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Strathfield College's website (www.strathfieldcollege.edu.au) to submit your application. Ensure you meet entry requirements, including English test scores. Pay attention to application deadlines and required documents (e.g., transcripts, passport).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student Visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, the college will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via ImmiAccount. Include OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement. After visa grant, you can travel to Australia and start your studies.
Choosing between Melbourne and Sydney for your Advanced Diploma in IT? Both cities are top study destinations with thriving technology sectors. Melbourne has a strong startup culture, major tech companies (e.g., REA Group, MYOB), and affordable living costs compared to Sydney. The city offers excellent public transport, multicultural communities, and numerous networking events. Sydney, with Surry Hills campus, is close to the CBD and Surry Hills' creative tech hub. Living costs are higher (weekly rent ~$400–$550), but job opportunities in finance, fintech, and enterprise IT are abundant. Both cities have large international student populations (Melbourne: ~200,000; Sydney: ~250,000) and multiple universities and VET providers. Consider your budget, career goals, and lifestyle when selecting a campus. HeadStart Academy provides free location guides to help you decide.
Ready to apply? Follow the three steps in the 'How to Apply' section above and start your journey toward an Advanced Diploma in IT at Strathfield College.
Advanced Diploma of Information Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Strathfield College 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.