Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis (CRICOS course code 110935D) is a Certificate IV delivered by APLUS EDUCATION GROUP Pty. Ltd. over 26 weeks (~6 months). This advanced diagnostic course, classified under field 030503 (Vehicle Mechanics), is designed for individuals aiming to develop specialist skills in automotive fault-finding and repair. Offered at AQF Level 4, it prepares graduates for roles such as diagnostic technician or workshop supervisor. APLUS Education Group (CRICOS 03631M) is a private provider based in Melbourne, Victoria. The course is taught in English and has no work component. Indicative tuition fees are A$7,500, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, totaling A$8,500. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. HeadStart Academy is a free resource offering verified data from the CRICOS register, with no referral fees.
This course falls under Automotive Engineering and Technology (0305), specialising in Vehicle Mechanics (030503). At Certificate IV level, students typically learn advanced diagnostic techniques including electronic management systems, engine diagnostics, transmission analysis, and complex fault-finding. The curriculum builds on foundational automotive knowledge, preparing graduates for supervisory roles. Aligned with the AUR40216 national VET standard, the course is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. While specific syllabus details are set by APLUS Education Group, graduates gain hands-on skills applicable to Australia’s automotive industry. Melbourne, where the course is delivered, has a strong automotive sector with many dealerships and repair shops, providing practical exposure. Graduates may also pursue further studies in automotive management.
The Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis has a standard duration of 26 weeks (approximately 6 months) as registered on CRICOS. This is a full-time course with no mandatory work component. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification—not part of a dual or foundation program. Students should expect a structured timetable delivered at the Melbourne CBD campus or the Queen Street location. Part-time options are typically not available for international students due to visa conditions. The 26-week timeframe allows students to quickly gain advanced skills and enter the workforce, offering a faster pathway to skilled employment compared to longer diploma courses. Students must maintain satisfactory attendance to comply with student visa requirements.
According to the CRICOS register as at April 2026, the indicative tuition fee for this course is A$7,500. Non-tuition fees are listed at A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$8,500. Please note that these fees are indicative and subject to change by APLUS Education Group. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website before applying. International students must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which typically costs between A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Melbourne are estimated at around A$21,000 per year according to the Department of Home Affairs. The student visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (as of July 2025). HeadStart Academy provides these figures as a guide only; for accurate costs, refer to official sources.
For international students, a minimum IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall is typically required for entry to this course. Applicants should have completed a qualification at AQF Level 3 or equivalent, such as a Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical Technology. APLUS Education Group may consider relevant work experience in lieu of formal qualifications. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; students who do not meet academic requirements should contact the provider directly. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for a student visa. English language requirements may also be satisfied through other tests like PTE or TOEFL; check with APLUS for accepted alternatives. Prior study in automotive technology is highly recommended, as the course builds on existing knowledge.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students are able to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to student visa conditions. Work experience is not a requirement for graduation from this program, but students may seek part-time employment independently. Note that any work must not interfere with study commitments. The absence of a work component means the course is purely academic, allowing students to focus on their studies and clinical skills development.
The Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: the Melbourne CBD Campus at Suite 3 Level 9 190 Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000, and the main Melbourne CBD Campus. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a diverse population and a strong automotive industry. The city has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a popular study destination. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than the national average but offer excellent public transport connectivity. Students can access both campuses via tram, bus, or train. The central location provides easy access to workshops, libraries, and other student facilities. Victoria has a high concentration of automotive businesses, offering graduates opportunities across the state.
International students enrolling in this course will typically need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work part-time (48 hours per fortnight during term), and remain in Australia for the duration of your course. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, show evidence of financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. As HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or visiting homeaffairs.gov.au for official guidance. All courses listed on CRICOS are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your tuition fees are covered in case of provider default.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities. It offers a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a thriving job market. For automotive students, Melbourne has numerous dealerships, repair shops, and diagnostic centers offering practical exposure. The city has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you options if you want to transfer or continue studying. Typical rents for a shared apartment near the city centre range from A$200–$350 per week, with groceries costing around A$100 weekly. The student population in Melbourne exceeds 250,000, making it a vibrant place to study. Consider whether the city's climate, cost of living, and culture suit your preferences.
Follow these three steps to apply:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free directory to filter automotive courses at Certificate IV level in Melbourne. Check CRICOS course code 110935D and confirm the provider's registration status.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact APLUS Education Group for application forms, entry requirements, and English test criteria. Submit your academic transcripts, English proficiency evidence, and any other required documents. Note application deadlines.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, APLUS will issue your CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your automotive career? Explore your study options with HeadStart Academy and take the first step today.
Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis is a CRICOS-registered programme at APLUS EDUCATION GROUP 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.