Are you an international student aiming for a career as a commercial pilot? The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) (CRICOS course code 117208A) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Koolardie Aviation Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04317B) over 13 weeks. This course focuses on aircraft operation within the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology, equipping you with the skills to fly under instrument flight rules. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian Government standards and qualifies you to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). At HeadStart Academy, we provide free, data-driven guidance sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) so you can confidently compare aviation courses across Australia.
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The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is a specialised qualification that prepares students for advanced flight operations under instrument meteorological conditions. Offered by Koolardie Aviation Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (04317B), this course is classified under field of education 031505 (Aircraft Operation) and leads to the AVI50519 national VET qualification. The course runs for 13 weeks (as recorded on the CRICOS register) with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no work component. With an indicative tuition fee of A$49,400 and non-tuition fees of A$690, the estimated total cost is A$50,090. Remember, fees are set by the institution and subject to change; always confirm directly with Koolardie Aviation. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections.
This Diploma focuses on aircraft operation within Aerospace Engineering and Technology. At AQF Level 5, graduates typically acquire specialised knowledge and skills for technical and supervisory roles. In this course, you will learn to operate aircraft under instrument flight rules, interpret meteorological information, manage navigation systems, and conduct flight planning for instrument approaches. While specific syllabi vary, the qualification develops competencies in aviation theory, flight safety, crew resource management, and compliance with civil aviation regulations. Practical flight training is integral, with simulator and aircraft sessions conducted at the provider's facilities. The course aligns with the AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) national competency standards, preparing you for the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) instrument rating test.
The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is delivered over 13 weeks, as specified on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification with no dual awards or foundation studies. The intensive schedule combines theory classes with practical flight training, typically requiring full-time attendance. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the study requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Students should expect a structured timetable that includes both ground school and in-flight instruction. Koolardie Aviation's Head Office in Rowes Bay, Queensland, houses the training facilities, including simulators and access to aircraft. For international students, the 13-week duration allows for focused skill development before seeking employment or further study.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$49,400, with non-tuition fees (such as materials, uniforms, or assessments) estimated at A$690, bringing the total to A$50,090 as per the CRICOS register (April 2026). Please note that these fees are indicative only and are set by Koolardie Aviation Pty Ltd; they are subject to change without notice. The fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fee information, always check the provider's official website or contact them directly. HeadStart Academy provides fee data from the CRICOS register as a free resource to help you compare courses—no referral fees or commissions involved. Remember that ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring transparency in fee disclosure.
While specific entry requirements are set by the provider, a general guideline for this Diploma level is an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Applicants are typically expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent, and may need to demonstrate prior flying experience or a relevant certificate. Koolardie Aviation may also require a medical fitness certificate and a valid aviation security clearance. As the course leads to a CASA instrument rating, prospective students should be aware of additional licensing prerequisites. For detailed entry criteria, contact Koolardie Aviation directly. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their Student visa application. Consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice on meeting these conditions.
This course has no work component. It does not include a mandatory internship, placement, or work-based training. The 13-week program is purely academic and practical flight training, without a structured work element. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain part-time work experience in Australia while studying. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current work limitations.
The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is delivered at the Head Office of Koolardie Aviation Pty Ltd in Rowes Bay, Queensland. Rowes Bay is a coastal suburb of Townsville, a major regional city with a population of over 180,000. Queensland has more than 100 CRICOS-registered providers, including several flight training schools. Townsville offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$300–400, groceries about A$100–150, and public transport around A$30–50 per week. The campus is near the Townsville Airport, providing convenient access for flight training. Students enjoy a tropical climate and a vibrant student community, with James Cook University Townsville campus nearby.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent and sufficient financial capacity. The visa application charge (currently A$710 for the main applicant) is not included in the course fees. HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance as a free resource, but we are not registered migration agents. For specific advice, consult a MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs. Remember, only CRICOS-registered courses qualify for a Student visa.
Follow these three steps to secure your place:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Aerospace Engineering), and location (Queensland). Confirm that Koolardie Aviation (CRICOS 04317B) offers the course you need. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Submit your application to Koolardie Aviation. Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and any aviation medical or security documents. Check application deadlines on their website. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — Once accepted, Koolardie Aviation will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, evidence of funds, and GTE statement.
Rowes Bay, part of Townsville, offers a unique study environment for aviation students. With a population of around 180,000, Townsville has a lower cost of living than major cities, making it attractive for budget-conscious international students. The tropical climate allows for year-round flying, and the proximity to the airport reduces travel time to training facilities. However, it's a smaller city compared to Brisbane or Sydney, so consider whether you prefer a quieter lifestyle. Queensland is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, and Townsville has a supportive international student community. Weigh factors like accommodation availability, public transport, and nearby attractions. HeadStart Academy helps you compare locations across Australia to find the best fit for your studies.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more aviation courses at headstartacademy.com.au or contact Koolardie Aviation directly for application details.
Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Koolardie Aviation 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.