Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning (CRICOS course code 115854J) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Adelaide University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification sits within the field of Management and Commerce, specifically Banking and Finance (081101). As a CRICOS-registered course (Adelaide University CRICOS 04249J), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Adelaide University is a leading government university in South Australia, known for its research and teaching excellence. Australia offers over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses across 1,500+ providers, and this program prepares graduates for careers in financial planning, wealth management, and advisory roles. Whether you aim to work in Australia or globally, this graduate diploma provides a solid foundation. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you explore CRICOS-registered courses like this one, with no referral fees or commissions.
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Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning (CRICOS course code 115854J) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Adelaide University over 1 year. This course is at AQF Level 8, which typically requires a prior bachelor degree or equivalent. It falls under the field of Banking and Finance, focusing on advanced financial planning principles, risk management, investment strategies, and regulatory compliance. Students will develop skills to advise clients on financial goals, superannuation, insurance, and estate planning. The course is designed for those seeking to enter the financial planning industry or enhance their existing qualifications. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability. Adelaide University is a CRICOS-registered provider (04249J), guaranteeing that it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment.
While specific syllabi vary, a Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at this level typically covers subjects such as financial planning principles, risk management and insurance, investment management, taxation strategies, superannuation and retirement planning, and ethics and professional standards. The course is designed to meet the educational requirements for becoming a qualified financial planner in Australia, subject to additional professional accreditation. Students will engage with real-world case studies and develop analytical and communication skills. Note that this is a general description based on the field of education (081101 Banking and Finance) and not a verified curriculum—always refer to Adelaide University for exact subject details.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The program is offered on a full-time basis, and students are expected to attend classes at the Adelaide City Campus. No mandatory work component is included, so students can focus entirely on their studies. The language of instruction being English requires proof of proficiency, typically through IELTS or equivalent.
Indicative tuition fee for the entire program is A$49,990. Non-tuition fees are A$93, making an estimated total of A$50,083. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Adelaide are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne—estimate weekly rent A$200–300, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–50. Always confirm current fees directly with Adelaide University by visiting their website. HeadStart Academy does not set fees and provides these numbers as a guide only.
For international students, Adelaide University typically requires an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) for graduate diploma entry. Applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in any discipline. Some background in business or finance may be advantageous but not always required. Foundation or pathway programs are not listed for this course; if you do not meet entry requirements, consult Adelaide University for alternative pathways. These are general guidelines—entry requirements are set by the institution and may change. Always check the official Adelaide University website for the most up-to-date information.
No work component – Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. This means the course is entirely academic, allowing you to complete it within the standard 52-week duration without additional work requirements. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you may undertake part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks) to support your living costs.
This course is delivered at Adelaide University's Adelaide City Campus in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a vibrant, affordable city with a strong student community. The campus is well-connected by public transport, including buses, trains, and trams. South Australia is home to numerous CRICOS-registered providers, and Adelaide itself boasts a diverse student population. Living costs here are relatively low compared to eastern capitals, making it an attractive destination for international students. The city offers a high quality of life with beaches, parks, and a thriving food scene.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance requirements, and holding valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects your rights, including tuition assurance and refund policies. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa applications.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Banking and Finance), and location (Adelaide). Compare options and shortlist Adelaide University. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Adelaide University's website to review specific entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (transcripts, CV, personal statement). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for current processing times.
Adelaide is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. For international students, it offers a safe, multicultural environment with affordable living costs (estimated weekly budget: rent A$200–300, groceries A$80–120, transport A$40–50). The city has over 30,000 international students from more than 130 countries. Public transport is efficient, with a free tram zone in the city centre. Adelaide University's campus is central, close to shops, cafes, and cultural venues. South Australia also offers post-study work opportunities and regional migration benefits for eligible graduates. Choosing Adelaide means balancing quality education with a relaxed lifestyle.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more CRICOS-registered Graduate Diploma courses in South Australia at HeadStart Academy.
Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning is a CRICOS-registered programme at Adelaide University. 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.