Graduate Diploma of Aged Care (CRICOS course code 116238C) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Excelsia University College over 1 year. This program sits within the field of 'Care for the Aged' (090507) at AQF Level 8, preparing international students for leadership roles in aged care services. Excelsia University College (CRICOS 02664K) is a private higher education provider located in Pennant Hills, New South Wales. As a CRICOS-registered institution, it meets Australian Government standards for delivering courses to overseas students. With Australia's ageing population, qualified aged care specialists are in high demand. This course equips graduates with advanced skills in policy, management, and person-centred care. HeadStart Academy lists this course from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed study decisions.
The Graduate Diploma of Aged Care focuses on human welfare studies and services, specifically in care for the aged. This AQF Level 8 qualification typically covers topics such as aged care policy and ethics, healthcare management, gerontology, and evidence-based practice. Students develop skills to assess, plan, and evaluate aged care services, manage teams, and advocate for older adults. While exact subjects vary, graduates are prepared for roles in residential aged care, community services, and government agencies. As a graduate diploma, it builds on prior undergraduate knowledge, offering advanced theoretical and practical insights into the aged care sector.
The Graduate Diploma of Aged Care is a 1-year program (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). Delivery is full-time in English. This is a single qualification — not a dual award or foundation studies program. Excelsia University College offers on-campus learning at its Pennant Hills campus. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions.
Indicative fees are A$18,000 for tuition and A$1,000 for non-tuition costs (e.g., materials, orientation), totaling approximately A$19,000. These are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are set by the provider — always confirm current fees at excelsia.edu.au. Not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (indicative A$21,041/year), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Australia’s student visa requires evidence of sufficient funds: tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting carefully and checking the Department of Home Affairs for updated financial requirements.
Typical entry requires a recognised bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent. English proficiency: IELTS overall 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Specific prerequisites may include prior study in health or social sciences. This course has no foundation studies component — entry is direct. Always check with Excelsia University College for exact requirements, as these can vary. You may also need to demonstrate relevant work experience. For English waivers, ask the provider.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can provide valuable Australian workplace experience, though it is not tied to the course curriculum.
The course is delivered at Excelsia University College’s campus: 1 City View Road, Pennant Hills NSW 2120. Pennant Hills is a suburb in Sydney’s Upper North Shore, well connected by train and bus to Sydney CBD (about 35 minutes by train). The area has a mix of residential and commercial facilities, with reasonable student accommodation options nearby. Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: indicative rent for a shared room is A$250–A$400/week, groceries A$80–A$150/week, and public transport up to A$50/week.
International students on this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: maintain full-time enrolment, meet attendance and course progress, hold OSHC, and satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during holidays. OSHC covers medical and hospital costs — you must maintain it for your visa duration. Financial capacity must cover tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like this Graduate Diploma of Aged Care in your preferred city. 2. Apply directly to Excelsia University College — meet entry requirements (English test, academic transcripts) and submit an application by their deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — include the CoE, OSHC evidence, and financial documents. Excelsia will guide you after acceptance.
New South Wales offers a vibrant multicultural environment with numerous study and career opportunities. Sydney has a strong aged care sector due to its large ageing population. The state is home to over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers (April 2026). Living costs in Sydney are higher than in other Australian cities, but part-time work can offset expenses. Public transport is extensive, and Pennant Hills provides a quieter suburban setting with easy city access. Consider your budget, climate preferences (mild winters, warm summers), and career goals when choosing NSW.
Ready to start your aged care career? Explore Graduate Diploma of Aged Care at Excelsia University College or compare similar courses on HeadStart Academy.
Graduate Diploma of Aged Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Excelsia University College. 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.