Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 111881E) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 39 weeks (~9 months). This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge in accounting principles, financial reporting, and business analytics. UNSW is a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00098G) located in Kensington, Sydney. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, UNSW consistently ranks among the top universities globally. This course is ideal for international students aiming to pursue careers in professional accounting and meet the educational requirements for bodies like CPA Australia or CA ANZ. All course data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026.
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This Graduate Diploma falls under the field of education 080101 - Accounting (Management and Commerce). Students gain core competencies in financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, and business law. While the exact syllabus is set by UNSW, typical coursework develops skills in ethical decision-making, analytical problem-solving, and financial communication. Graduates are prepared for roles such as accountant, financial analyst, or auditor. The course also provides a pathway to further study, such as a Master of Professional Accounting, and meets the academic requirements for professional accounting bodies in Australia.
The Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting has a CRICOS-registered duration of 39 weeks (~9 months). It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (dual qualification: No). Full-time study is expected, with classes held on campus at UNSW Kensington. As a non-VET course, the VET national code is N/A. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Indicative tuition fees for this course are A$44,500, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$45,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For current fees and any scholarships, always check UNSW's official website. Living costs in Sydney are estimated at A$1,500–$2,500 per month for rent, groceries, and transport.
Applicants typically need to demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall. Prior qualifications equivalent to an Australian bachelor's degree in any discipline may be required. UNSW may accept foundation or pathway programs if applicants do not meet direct entry. Specific requirements and recognition of prior learning (RPL) are determined by UNSW. Always consult the provider for detailed entry criteria.
This course has no mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The ESOS Act ensures your rights as an overseas student in Australia.
The Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Sydney, approximately 10 km from the CBD. Sydney is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, diverse cultural communities, and excellent public transport including trains and buses to campus. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with weekly rent averaging A$250–$500 for shared accommodation.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion must be satisfied. Working rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For visa assistance, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Accounting), and location (NSW). UNSW is CRICOS-registered (00098G). Step 2: Apply directly to UNSW. Check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, English test scores, and meet application deadlines. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Sydney is Australia's largest city, offering a vibrant lifestyle, diverse culture, and strong job market for accounting graduates. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Sydney alone has hundreds of institutions. Public transport connects UNSW Kensington to the city and beaches. However, cost of living is high. Consider your budget and career goals. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no commissions, helping you explore all options.
Ready to start your accounting journey in Australia? Follow our 3-step application guide above or explore more Graduate Diploma courses across Australia on HeadStart Academy.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.