Associate Degree of Music (Performance) (CRICOS course code 111576C) is a Associate Degree delivered by The Australian Institute of Music Limited over 2 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring international students receive a quality education under the ESOS Act. The Australian Institute of Music Limited (CRICOS 00665C) is a private provider with campuses in Sydney and Melbourne, two of Australia's most vibrant cultural hubs. As a HeadStart Academy free resource, we provide unbiased information sourced directly from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Whether you're a budding performer or looking to deepen your musical expertise, this program offers a pathway to a creative career in Australia. Read on for fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa guidance.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
| Metric | Value |
|---|
This Associate Degree in Music (Performance) falls under the field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 1001 - Performing Arts and 100101 - Music. At AQF Level 6, students develop foundational and applied knowledge in music performance, including practical techniques, ensemble work, music theory, and stagecraft. Graduates typically gain skills to perform as soloists or ensemble members, work in music production, or pursue further study in a bachelor's program. The curriculum balances practical performance with theoretical understanding, preparing students for the competitive music industry. While specific subjects may vary, the course emphasizes real-world application, often culminating in recitals or public performances. Students can expect to build a portfolio of work and critical listening skills essential for professional growth. HeadStart Academy notes that this is a general guide—for a detailed syllabus, always refer to The Australian Institute of Music Limited's official website or course handbook.
The Associate Degree of Music (Performance) is a single qualification with a duration of 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). Instruction is in English, ensuring international students can fully engage with course materials and participate in collaborative learning. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies attached to this course, meaning it stands alone as a complete credential. Full-time study is expected, and students should be prepared for a structured schedule of classes, rehearsals, and independent practice. The language of instruction is English, so meeting the provider's English language requirements is essential. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the CRICOS register for any updates on duration or mode changes, as these are verified as at April 2026.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$54,432, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$54,432. Please note these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by The Australian Institute of Music Limited. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm directly with the provider at www.aim.edu.au before applying. This amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international student visa holders, nor does it cover living costs or the visa application charge. For example, students in Sydney should budget around A$600–800 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, while Melbourne is slightly lower at A$500–700 per week. These figures are estimates; actual costs vary based on lifestyle and location. HeadStart Academy recommends planning a realistic budget that includes all expenses.
Entry requirements for the Associate Degree of Music (Performance) are set by The Australian Institute of Music Limited. Generally, applicants must have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. English language requirements vary by provider, but for this level, an overall IELTS score of 5.5–7.0 is typically expected, with no band less than 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent in other accepted tests like TOEFL or PTE). Some providers may require an audition or portfolio to assess performance ability. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements—consult the provider for details. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa. HeadStart Academy emphasizes that these are general guidelines; always check the official requirements on the provider's website or contact their admissions team.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to complete a work placement, internship, or work experience as part of the curriculum. However, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides an opportunity to gain part-time work experience in Australia's music scene or related fields, such as retail, hospitality, or casual performance work. Always ensure you comply with your visa work conditions and do not exceed the allowed hours.
The Associate Degree of Music (Performance) is delivered at two campuses of The Australian Institute of Music Limited: 66 Harrington St, The Rocks, NSW 2000 in Sydney, and the Melbourne Campus in Victoria. Sydney's campus is located in the historic Rocks district, close to public transport and the Sydney Opera House, offering a culturally rich environment for music students. Melbourne's campus is in Victoria's cultural capital, known for its live music scene and arts precincts. Both locations have a high density of CRICOS-registered providers—Sydney has over 400 providers and Melbourne over 300, making them top study destinations for international students. The student population in both cities is diverse, with excellent public transport links to campuses. Living costs in Sydney are generally higher, with median weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$600, while Melbourne is slightly more affordable at A$500. These cities also offer a wealth of part-time job opportunities for students.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The Australian Institute of Music Limited, which is issued after you accept an offer and pay any required deposits. Key visa conditions include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your entire stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2024, work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. ESOS Act protections ensure you receive a refund if the provider fails to deliver the course. Visa processing times vary, so apply early. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Applying for the Associate Degree of Music (Performance) at The Australian Institute of Music Limited involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Associate Degree), field (Creative Arts - Music), and city (Sydney or Melbourne). Compare multiple providers and check their CRICOS registration status. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit The Australian Institute of Music Limited's website at www.aim.edu.au to review specific entry requirements, including English language test scores and audition details. Submit your application with all required documents before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online, ensuring you meet the GTE and financial requirements. Don't forget to arrange OSHC.
Ready to start your music study journey? Compare this course with other Associate Degree programs at CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy.
View the full The Australian Institute of Music Limited profile →
Associate Degree of Music (Performance) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Australian Institute of Music Limited. 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.