Postgraduate Qualifying Program (CRICOS course code 107497C) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is designed for international students who need to meet academic or English language requirements before progressing into postgraduate study. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 03535M), it offers a structured pathway to higher education in Australia. Whether you're aiming for a master's or graduate diploma, this qualifying program can bridge the gap. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource to help you understand the course details, fees, and visa requirements. Always verify current information directly with the provider.
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Postgraduate Qualifying Program (CRICOS course code 107497C) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). The program falls under the field of education 07 - Education (specifically 079999 - Education, n.e.c.). It is designed to prepare students for postgraduate studies by enhancing academic skills, research capabilities, and English proficiency. This course is not a dual qualification and does not include a work component. The indicative tuition fee is A$8,000 with non-tuition fees of A$300, totalling an estimated A$8,300. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For current fees, visit the provider's website at http://www.pia.edu.au/.
As a Non AQF Award in Education (n.e.c.), this program typically covers academic writing, research methods, critical thinking, and subject-specific foundations. Graduates are expected to gain the skills necessary to succeed in postgraduate courses. Since it is a qualifying program, the curriculum is tailored to bridge knowledge gaps and ensure students meet entry requirements for their intended further study. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered in four locations across New South Wales and Victoria.
The Postgraduate Qualifying Program has a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months) as per the CRICOS register. This is a full-time course delivered in English. It is a single qualification, not part of a package or dual award. Students should expect to commit to a structured timetable. The course is available at the following campuses:
The indicative tuition fee for the Postgraduate Qualifying Program is A$8,000, with non-tuition fees of A$300, resulting in an estimated total of A$8,300. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (budget A$500–700 per week depending on city), and the student visa application fee (currently A$710). Always confirm current fees directly with Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd via their website: http://www.pia.edu.au/. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge referral fees.
English language requirements vary by provider but typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level. For this Postgraduate Qualifying Program, prior qualifications equivalent to an Australian bachelor's degree may be expected, though the course is designed for those who do not yet meet full entry requirements for postgraduate study. Some providers may also accept alternative English tests like PTE Academic or TOEFL. Foundation or pathway options are available; refer to Polytechnic Institute Australia for specific requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website or contacting their admissions team.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are separate from the course structure. Always review your visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website.
The Postgraduate Qualifying Program is delivered across four campuses: Parramatta (NSW), Sydney (NSW), West Melbourne (VIC), and Geelong (VIC). Parramatta is a major educational hub with numerous CRICOS-registered providers and a large student population. Sydney and Melbourne are Australia's largest cities with excellent public transport, diverse cultures, and higher living costs (indicative weekly rent A$300–600). Geelong offers a more affordable lifestyle (rent A$200–400 per week). Each location provides access to libraries, student support, and transport. The CRICOS register lists over 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia.
International students must apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), evidence of English proficiency, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses are covered by the ESOS Act, which protects your tuition fees and ensures quality education. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free search to find courses like the Postgraduate Qualifying Program (107497C) at Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd. Filter by course level, field, and city.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Polytechnic Institute Australia for application forms, entry requirements (including English tests), and deadlines. Submit your documents and await an offer.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student Visa (Subclass 500): Once you accept the offer and pay fees, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
This course is offered in both NSW and Victoria. NSW is home to over 1,000 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student scene in Sydney and Parramatta. Victoria offers Melbourne and Geelong, with Geelong being more affordable. Consider your preference for city size, climate, and cost of living. Sydney and Melbourne have higher rent and transport costs, while Geelong and Parramatta are more budget-friendly. Both states have excellent public transport and student communities. For personalised advice, research each location's lifestyle and career opportunities.
Ready to apply? Follow the steps above or visit the Polytechnic Institute Australia website for the latest information.
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Postgraduate Qualifying Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at Polytechnic Institute Australia 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.