Are you looking to start a career in accounting and bookkeeping in Australia? The Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping (CRICOS course code 109949H) is a Certificate IV delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for international students who want to gain practical skills in financial record-keeping, payroll, and business activity statements. Offered at RMIT's Melbourne campus, this program combines theoretical knowledge with industry-relevant training. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00122A), you can be confident that it meets Australian Government standards for international education. HeadStart Academy provides this information sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're aiming for further study in accounting or direct entry into the workforce, this course is a solid foundation.
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The Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping (CRICOS 109949H) is a nationally recognised qualification (VET national code FNS40222) at AQF Level 4. It falls under the field of Management and Commerce (08) with a specific focus on Accounting (080101). This course is ideal for those who wish to perform accounting and bookkeeping tasks for organisations, including preparing financial reports, processing payroll, and maintaining financial records. The course is delivered entirely in English and is a single qualification (no dual award). It does not include a mandatory work component. With 26 weeks of full-time study, you'll gain the skills needed to work as a bookkeeper, accounts clerk, or payroll officer. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced directly from the CRICOS register to ensure accuracy.
As a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping student, you will cover core units that align with the Australian accounting framework. The curriculum typically includes topics such as preparing financial statements, processing payroll, completing business activity statements (BAS), and using accounting software. While the exact syllabus is set by RMIT, graduates generally develop competence in maintaining accurate financial records, applying ethical principles, and communicating effectively in a business environment. This level of study (AQF Level 4) prepares you for supervisory roles or further study at the diploma level. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so this qualification is well-recognised in the industry.
The course duration is 26 weeks (~6 months) as per the CRICOS register. This is the standard full-time study period for international students. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. During term, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and unlimited during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain experience while studying. The course is delivered face-to-face at RMIT's Melbourne campus, providing a structured learning environment.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$13,000. In addition, there are non-tuition fees of A$186, making the estimated total A$13,186. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm directly with RMIT for current fees. Additional costs not included in the estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For international students in Melbourne, weekly living costs (rent, groceries, transport) can range from A$400 to A$700 depending on lifestyle. RMIT's fees are competitive for a government university. The provider's website (www.rmit.edu.au) has the most up-to-date fee information.
Entry requirements for this course typically include an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). You should also have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification. If you don't meet these requirements, RMIT may offer pathway options such as foundation studies or English language courses. Contact the provider directly for specific entry criteria. As this is a Certificate IV level course, it is suitable for students who have completed secondary education and want vocational skills. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate financial capacity and genuine intention to study (GTE requirement).
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder, you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This gives you flexibility to gain practical experience in accounting firms or businesses. Melbourne has a strong job market for accounting graduates, with many opportunities for part-time work in bookkeeping roles.
This course is delivered at RMIT University – 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a major education hub, home to over 200,000 international students. The city offers excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) and affordable student accommodation options. With a vibrant culture and diverse industries, Melbourne is an ideal place to study accounting and bookkeeping. Victoria has 50+ CRICOS-registered providers offering accounting courses, giving you many choices.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key conditions include maintaining genuine enrolment, meeting attendance requirements, and holding OSHC for the duration of your stay. You are allowed to work 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement ensures you intend to study and return home. You must also demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, guaranteeing refunds and quality standards. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate IV), field (Accounting), and location (Melbourne). Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (code 00122A). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check RMIT's website (www.rmit.edu.au) for entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application through their international admissions portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, RMIT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. You'll need OSHC, proof of funds, and a valid passport.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a large international student community. Living costs are moderate: average weekly rent for a share house is around A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$40–A$60. The city has a strong economy with many job opportunities in accounting and finance. However, consider that competition for part-time work can be high. If you prefer a quieter environment, regional Victoria also offers CRICOS-registered courses in accounting. Weigh your lifestyle preferences against career goals.
Start your journey today – explore more Certificate IV courses in Victoria or book a consultation with HeadStart Academy to find the best fit for your goals.
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Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping is a CRICOS-registered programme at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. 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.