Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) (CRICOS course code 109200J) is a Diploma delivered by Box Hill Institute over 1 year 1 month (~58 weeks). This CRICOS-registered course falls under the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology, specifically Aircraft Operation (AQF Level 5), and provides the training needed to obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). Box Hill Institute is a government-owned TAFE institution (CRICOS 02411J) with two delivery locations: Moorabbin Airport and the Box Hill campus in Victoria. The indicative total fees are A$99,550, covering tuition for the full program. At HeadStart Academy, we help international students like you explore CRICOS-registered courses and make informed decisions about studying in Australia. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. This page covers course content, fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, visa guidance, and a step-by-step application process.
The Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) is a vocational education and training (VET) qualification that prepares students for a career as a commercial pilot. The course code AVI50222 corresponds to the nationally endorsed training package. Students learn flight theory, aerodynamics, navigation, meteorology, and human factors, alongside practical flight training to meet CPL standards. The program is delivered full-time in English over 58 weeks, and it does not include a mandatory work component. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, including ESOS Act protections. Box Hill Institute, the provider, has a strong reputation in aviation training and operates from Moorabbin Airport, one of Australia's busiest general aviation airports. This course is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not offer foundation studies. For the most up-to-date information, always check the provider's website.
This course belongs to the field of 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically 0315 - Aerospace Engineering and Technology with a focus on 031505 - Aircraft Operation. At the Diploma level (AQF Level 5), graduates acquire practical and theoretical knowledge to operate aircraft in commercial operations. Typical learning outcomes include flight planning, aircraft systems, radio communications, and decision-making under pressure. Students gain proficiency in handling single-engine aircraft and meet the requirements for a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The curriculum combines classroom instruction, simulator sessions, and in-flight training. While we do not provide a detailed syllabus, the course is designed to equip you with the competencies needed for entry-level pilot roles in airlines, charter companies, or flight training organisations. The course is VET accredited and aligns with industry standards.
The Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) is scheduled for 1 year and 1 month (58 weeks) on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The intensive nature of flight training requires a significant time commitment, both in class and at the airport. Students should expect regular flying sessions supplemented by theory classes. The program is not offered part-time or online due to the practical flight requirements. The duration may vary slightly based on weather, aircraft availability, and individual progress, but the CRICOS-listed duration is the standard. All international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$99,550, with non-tuition fees of A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$99,550. This fee covers flight training, aircraft hire, instructor time, and academic materials. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne (where the campuses are located) are typically A$21,041 per year for a single student, according to the Department of Home Affairs. Weekly rent for shared accommodation ranges from A$250 to A$400, with groceries and transport adding A$100-A$150 per week. OSHC costs approximately A$600 per year for single cover. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change; we recommend confirming current fees directly with Box Hill Institute via their website: www.boxhill.edu.au.
International applicants should have an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) as a guide. Academic entry typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling. Prior study in aviation or mathematics is advantageous but not mandatory. Applicants must also meet CASA medical fitness standards (Class 1 medical is required for a CPL). Box Hill Institute may have additional prerequisites, such as a minimum age of 18 and a valid aviation medical certificate. Foundation or pathway options are not offered for this diploma; students should meet the requirements directly. Always verify specific entry requirements with the provider, as they can change. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission. For visa purposes, evidence of English proficiency and academic qualifications must be provided.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component or internship. Students are not required to undertake structured employment as part of their study. 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. This can help offset living costs, but should not interfere with the demanding flight training schedule.
The course is delivered at two locations in Victoria: 1 Second Avenue, Moorabbin Airport, Moorabbin VIC; and Box Hill Institute of TAFE, 465 Elgar Rd, Box Hill VIC. Moorabbin Airport is a major general aviation hub near Melbourne, offering direct access to runways and air traffic control for training. Box Hill campus is in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, approximately 15 km from the city centre, and is well-served by public transport (train and bus). Both locations provide modern facilities including flight simulators and classrooms. Melbourne is home to over 40 CRICOS-registered providers, with a vibrant student population of more than 200,000 international students. The city’s affordable living costs and cultural diversity make it an attractive study destination.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, with unlimited work during scheduled breaks. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, provide evidence of OSHC, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The indicative living cost in Melbourne is A$21,041 per year. OSHC typically costs around A$600 per year for single cover. The visa application charge is currently A$710 for the main applicant. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. For visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Victoria offers a thriving aviation training environment, with Moorabbin Airport as a central hub. The state has over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, including several aviation diplomas. Studying in Victoria means access to Melbourne’s multicultural community, reliable public transport, and a moderate cost of living compared to Sydney. The climate allows for year-round flying, with minimal weather cancellations. However, consider that aviation courses are intensive and require dedication. If you prefer a city with a lower cost of living, regional Victoria may be an option, but the airport training facilities are concentrated in Melbourne. Weigh your priorities: career goals, budget, and lifestyle. HeadStart Academy is here to help you compare courses across states.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) at Box Hill Institute: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to compare aviation courses in Victoria. Filter by course level, field (Aerospace), and city to find the best fit. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements (English test scores, academic documents, medical certificate) and application deadlines on Box Hill Institute’s website. Submit your application along with supporting documents. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, Box Hill Institute will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to take off? Start your application for the Diploma of Aviation at Box Hill Institute today through HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Box Hill Institute. 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.