Associate Degree of Circus Arts (CRICOS course code 117404H) is a Associate Degree delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd (trading as Collarts) over 2 years. This program is designed for international students seeking a professional qualification in circus performance, blending physical training with theoretical study. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international education and qualifies for student visa (Subclass 500) applications. Located in Melbourne, Victoria, students can train at two campuses in Collingwood and Prahran, accessing world-class facilities and the city's vibrant arts scene. HeadStart Academy is your free resource to compare this course with other performing arts programs across Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses. Read on for detailed information on fees, entry requirements, and how to apply.
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The Associate Degree of Circus Arts falls under the field of education 100199 - Performing Arts, n.e.c. (within Creative Arts). At this AQF Level 6, graduates typically develop practical performance skills, choreography, and production knowledge specific to circus disciplines such as aerial arts, acrobatics, clowning, and physical theatre. The curriculum combines hands-on training with academic modules in performance theory, health and safety, and arts management. While every provider structures its syllabus independently, students can expect a mix of studio practice, workshops, and theoretical assessments that prepare them for roles in entertainment, teaching, or further study at bachelor level. International students benefit from small class sizes and industry mentors at Collarts, ensuring skills are aligned with Australia's growing circus and contemporary performance sector.
The Associate Degree of Circus Arts has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Instruction is delivered in English, and the program is offered full-time on campus. As an AQF Level 6 course, it typically requires completion of 12–16 units of study. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. The CRICOS register confirms that this course has no work component, but students may seek part-time work under student visa work rights (see Student Visa section for details). Language immersion in Melbourne's multicultural environment also enhances English proficiency beyond the classroom.
Course fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change – always confirm directly with the provider before applying. For the Associate Degree of Circus Arts at Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd, the tuition fee is A$70,384. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, giving an estimated total cost of A$70,384 for the full program. This amount does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or visa application charges. Indicative living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$1,500–A$2,000 per month, including accommodation (weekly rent A$250–A$450), groceries, and public transport. OSHC costs around A$600–A$800 per year for single coverage. For current fees and any additional costs (e.g., materials, equipment, insurance), visit the provider's website at www.collarts.edu.au. HeadStart Academy reminds you to budget for all expenses before applying.
Entry requirements for the Associate Degree of Circus Arts vary by provider, but general guidance for AQF Level 6 courses includes completion of Australian Year 12 (or overseas equivalent) and evidence of English language proficiency. International students typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 7.0, depending on the provider and course level. Collarts may also require a portfolio, audition, or interview to assess performance potential. Foundation studies are not included in this course, but applicants who do not meet academic or English requirements may consider pathway programs offered by other CRICOS-registered colleges. Always check the provider's website for specific entry requirements and application deadlines. English test alternatives (PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge) may be accepted. Contact Collarts directly for the most accurate and up-to-date admissions criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component according to the CRICOS register. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. While the program focuses on academic and practical training, students may seek casual or part-time employment in Melbourne's hospitality, retail, or arts sectors to support their living costs. The Australian education system under the ESOS Act ensures international students have the same workplace rights as domestic students. Always balance work commitments with study requirements to maintain satisfactory course progress.
The Associate Degree of Circus Arts is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: - 208 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066 (Collingwood campus) - 39-59 Green Street, Prahran VIC 3181 (Prahran campus) Both campuses are in inner-city Melbourne, with excellent public transport access via trams and trains. Collingwood is known for its creative and arts precinct, while Prahran sits in the lively St Kilda Road area close to shopping and entertainment. Melbourne is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population exceeding 200,000. The city offers diverse cultural experiences, a strong performing arts scene, and living costs slightly lower than Sydney. Weekly rent ranges from A$250 for shared accommodation to A$450 for a studio. Proximity to the CBD makes both campuses convenient for study and work.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500), which covers full-time study at a CRICOS-registered institution. Key obligations include: - Maintain enrolment in a registered course - Achieve satisfactory course progress - Hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa - Not breach work conditions (48 hours/fortnight during study, unlimited during breaks) - Comply with Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement – you must demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily for study Visa applications require evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living expenses, OSHC, travel) and English proficiency. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For visa guidance, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. ESOS Act protections ensure you receive quality education and consumer rights. Read more about student visas and OSHC on our dedicated visa pages.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Associate Degree of Circus Arts at Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses by level (Associate Degree), field (Performing Arts), and location (Melbourne, VIC). Verify CRICOS registration at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements on Collarts' website (www.collarts.edu.au), including academic qualifications, English test scores, and any audition/portfolio. Submit your application by the deadline (typically rolling intakes).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, Collarts will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application, arrange OSHC, and demonstrate financial capacity. For visa help, use a MARA agent.
Remember to confirm fees, start dates, and any additional requirements directly with Collarts. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to simplify your research – no referral fees, no commissions.
Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered associate degree programs in performing arts on HeadStart Academy – free and impartial. Then contact Collarts directly to begin your application.
View the full Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd profile →
Associate Degree of Circus Arts is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of the Arts 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.