Diploma of Flying (Private Pilot License) (CRICOS course code 110536H) is a Diploma delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking to earn a Private Pilot License while studying at a leading Australian university. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under Australian law. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) is a government-funded university with a strong reputation in engineering and technology, and this course is offered at its Point Cook Campus, located at the historic RAAF Williams base in Victoria. Whether you aim to pursue a career in aviation or simply want to experience flying in Australia, this program provides a solid foundation.
Diploma of Flying (Private Pilot License) (CRICOS course code 110536H) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (CRICOS 00122A). The course is classified under field of education 031505 - Aircraft Operation, which is part of Aerospace Engineering and Technology. This qualification prepares students for entry-level roles in aviation and provides the knowledge and skills required to obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL). As a CRICOS-registered course, it is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, ensuring quality assurance and ESOS Act protections for international students. The indicative tuition fee is A$69,120, with non-tuition fees of A$373, giving an estimated total of A$69,493. The course is delivered in English over 52 weeks at the Point Cook Campus in Victoria.
The Diploma of Flying (Private Pilot License) falls under the broad field of Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically within Aerospace Engineering and Technology. At this level, students typically gain theoretical and practical knowledge in aircraft operation, flight planning, navigation, meteorology, and aviation regulations. While the specific syllabus is set by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, graduates of similar programs are equipped to operate aircraft under visual flight rules and pursue further training for commercial licenses. The course emphasises safety, decision-making, and technical proficiency. As part of Australia's vocational education and training (VET) sector, this diploma is designed to meet industry standards and may articulate to higher-level aviation qualifications.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies) and does not include a work component. The course is delivered on-campus at the Point Cook Campus, with practical flying components likely conducted at the adjacent airfield. As an international student, you will need to maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions. The standard study load is typically 20-25 contact hours per week, but this should be confirmed with the provider.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Flying (Private Pilot License) is A$69,120, with non-tuition fees of A$373, bringing the estimated total to A$69,493. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge are not included in this estimate. For current and precise fees, always refer to Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology's official website at www.rmit.edu.au. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only.
For international students, a minimum English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent) is typically required for Diploma-level study. Additional academic prerequisites may include completion of Year 12 or equivalent, with specific subject requirements possibly in mathematics or physics. Since this is a practical flying course, you may also need to hold a Class 1 or Class 2 Medical Certificate from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) or an equivalent medical standard. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology will assess your eligibility on a case-by-case basis. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements – check with RMIT for options.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, as a student visa holder, you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help with living expenses but should not interfere with your study commitments.
This course is delivered at the Point Cook Campus, located within the RAAF Williams base in Point Cook, Victoria. Point Cook is a suburb in Melbourne's southwest, approximately 20 km from the CBD. The campus is well-connected by public transport, with buses serving the area and the Williams Landing train station nearby. Point Cook is also home to a growing student population, with typical weekly living costs (rent, groceries, transport) estimated at A$400-A$600. The area offers a mix of suburban convenience and proximity to Melbourne's attractions. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 5,000 courses, making it a popular study destination.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights as mentioned. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity evidence is required to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed visa information, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to search for Diploma of Flying courses across Australia. Filter by course level, field, and location to compare options. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology is a CRICOS-registered provider (00122A).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit RMIT's website (www.rmit.edu.au) to review specific entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with supporting documents such as academic transcripts, English test results, and a personal statement.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, RMIT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Start your application early to allow processing time.
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Diploma of Flying (Private Pilot License) 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.