Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production (CRICOS course code 116348H) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd over 3 years. This course is designed for international students seeking a career in visual effects and virtual production, combining technical skills with creative storytelling. SAE Institute Pty Ltd, CRICOS 00312F, is a private provider with campuses across Australia, offering hands-on learning in industry-standard facilities. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can enrol with confidence, knowing the program meets Australian quality standards. The Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production covers computer science and IT fundamentals within the visual effects industry, preparing graduates for roles in film, television, gaming, and immersive media. Whether you choose Adelaide, Brisbane, Byron Bay, Melbourne, Perth, or Sydney, you'll benefit from SAE's industry connections and practical curriculum. This page provides essential information on fees, entry requirements, location details, and student visa considerations to help you plan your study journey in Australia.
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Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production (CRICOS course code 116348H) is a Bachelor Degree at AQF Level 7, delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00312F) over 3 years (156 weeks). This course belongs to the field of Computer Science (020199), focusing on the intersection of information technology and creative arts. Students learn to create digital environments, visual effects, and virtual production techniques used in the global entertainment industry. SAE Institute is a private provider with over 40 years of experience in creative media education, and this degree is designed to meet industry demand for skilled VFX artists and virtual production specialists. The program includes a work-integrated learning component of 12 weeks (approximately 80 total hours), providing real-world experience through industry placements or projects. All SAE campuses are CRICOS-registered, ensuring international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this degree is one of many pathways to a career in the booming VFX sector.
The Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production covers core areas of computer science applied to visual effects, including 3D modeling, animation, compositing, lighting, and real-time rendering. Students develop skills in industry-standard software such as Maya, Nuke, Unreal Engine, and Houdini. The curriculum integrates technical programming, project management, and collaborative production workflows. While specific unit outlines are set by SAE, graduates typically gain the ability to design and implement complex visual effects sequences, work within virtual production pipelines, and manage digital assets. The field of education (Computer Science, n.e.c.) ensures a broad foundation in computing principles alongside specialized VFX techniques. This qualification prepares students for roles such as VFX artist, compositor, technical director, and virtual production supervisor. The program also emphasizes communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills essential in the creative industries.
The Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production is a 3-year full-time program, with a total duration of 156 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes at one of SAE's six Australian campuses, with face-to-face learning supported by online resources. The program is structured to allow intakes typically in February and July, but applicants should check directly with SAE for exact dates. The full-time study load is 20-25 hours per week of contact time, plus additional self-study. International students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production is A$83,880 for the full 3-year program. Non-tuition fees (including materials, equipment access, and administrative costs) are estimated at A$1,369, bringing the total indicative course cost to A$85,249. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by SAE Institute Pty Ltd. Note: Tuition fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by city; for example, weekly rent in Sydney averages A$300–A$600, while Adelaide may be A$200–A$400. Always confirm current fees directly with SAE Institute at www.sae.edu.au before applying, as fees are subject to change. The CRICOS register provides indicative figures, but institutions set the final amounts.
International applicants to the Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production must meet English language proficiency and academic prerequisites. The indicative English requirement is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent test such as TOEFL or PTE). Academically, applicants should have completed an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent. Some prior study in arts, IT, or media may be advantageous but is not mandatory. SAE Institute may offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements; contact the provider for specific options. All entry requirements are determined by SAE and verified during the application process. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are limited. Consult the provider's website for detailed and up-to-date criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 12 weeks, totaling approximately 80 hours. This may take the form of an industry placement, internship, or project-based work with an external partner. Students gain practical experience in real VFX or virtual production environments, applying classroom knowledge to professional settings. The work component is supervised by SAE and counts toward course completion. It provides an opportunity to build industry connections and enhance employability. International students are permitted to undertake this work component as part of their course, but must ensure they comply with student visa work conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks).
The Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production is delivered at six SAE Institute campuses across Australia: SAE Adelaide (Adelaide, SA), SAE Brisbane (West End, QLD), SAE Byron Bay (Byron Bay, NSW), SAE Melbourne (South Melbourne, VIC), SAE Perth (Northbridge, WA), and SAE Sydney (Chippendale, NSW). Each campus offers state-of-the-art facilities including computer labs, green screens, and virtual production stages. Adelaide is known for its affordable living costs (weekly rent around A$200–A$350) and growing film industry. West End, Brisbane is close to public transport and the city centre, with student-friendly housing options. Byron Bay offers a creative coastal lifestyle, though rent is higher (A$300–A$500). South Melbourne is near key VFX studios, while Northbridge, Perth provides a vibrant arts scene. Chippendale, Sydney is in the heart of the city, with excellent transport links but higher living costs (A$350–A$600 weekly rent). All campuses are within walking distance or a short commute to public transport, making it easy for international students to explore each city.
International students enrolled in the Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) after receiving their Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from SAE Institute. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and OSHC. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions also require maintaining satisfactory course attendance and progress. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this degree, are subject to ESOS Act protections, ensuring refunds and support if the provider fails to deliver. Consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent for personalized advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Applying for this course involves three simple steps:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use the CRICOS register to verify SAE Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00312F) and the course (116348H). Compare this degree with other VFX programs across Australia to find your best fit.
Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution. Submit your application through SAE Institute's website, including academic transcripts, English test results, and any required portfolios. Check application deadlines and intake dates for your preferred campus.
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once SAE issues your CoE, you can apply for a visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and meet financial capacity requirements.
Ready to start your VFX journey? Apply to SAE Institute today and become part of the next generation of visual effects artists.
Bachelor of VFX and Virtual Production is a CRICOS-registered programme at SAE Institute 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.