Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) (CRICOS course code 117641F) is a Diploma delivered by Schofields Flying Club Ltd over 1 year. This course is designed for international students aiming to become commercial pilots in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian Government standards for international education. The Diploma covers both theoretical knowledge and practical flight training, preparing graduates for a career in aviation. Schofields Flying Club, a private provider based in Tamworth, NSW, offers this program at its SFC Tamworth Pilot Training Academy. With Australia's strong aviation industry and growing demand for pilots, this course provides a pathway to a rewarding profession. HeadStart Academy features only CRICOS-registered providers, ensuring you access legitimate study options. Below, we break down fees, entry requirements, and application steps for this Diploma.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
| Metric | Value |
|---|
This Diploma falls under the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology (031505 - Aircraft Operation). Students learn the skills required to operate aircraft commercially, including flight planning, navigation, meteorology, and aeronautical decision-making. The course combines classroom instruction with simulated and actual flight training. Graduates typically demonstrate competencies in managing flight operations, ensuring safety compliance, and performing pre-flight and post-flight procedures. While specific syllabi vary, the AVI50222 national code indicates alignment with Australian aviation training standards. This program equips students with the technical expertise and practical experience needed to obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Diploma is a notable option for aspiring aviators.
The course is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). The intensive nature of flight training requires full-time commitment. Students should be prepared for a structured schedule that includes ground school and flying hours. Schofields Flying Club Ltd determines the exact study mode, which typically involves a mix of on-campus classes at the Tamworth facility and practical flight sessions. The one-year duration allows students to progress quickly toward their CPL. For context, New South Wales has a significant number of registered providers offering diploma-level aviation courses, but this program stands out due to its focused commercial pilot pathway.
Tuition for this Diploma is A$179,900, with non-tuition fees of A$14,348, bringing the estimated total to A$194,248. These indicative figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Living expenses in New South Wales vary by location; for example, in regional areas like Tamworth, weekly rent may range from A$150–A$250 for shared accommodation, while groceries and transport cost around A$100–A$150 per week. In Sydney, costs are higher. Always confirm current fees directly with Schofields Flying Club Ltd before applying, as institutions set their own fees and may change them. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not receive referral fees.
Entry requirements for this Diploma include an overall IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Applicants are expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent (Senior Secondary Certificate of Education). Prior qualifications in science or mathematics are beneficial but not always mandatory. This is a Diploma (AQF Level 5), so students should be prepared for post-secondary study. Some providers may also require a medical fitness assessment for pilot training. For foundation or pathway options, refer directly to Schofields Flying Club Ltd. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application. For visa purposes, the Department of Home Affairs may have additional English language requirements. Always check with a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
This course has no mandatory work component. The CRICOS register indicates 'No work component', meaning students are not required to undertake work placement or internships as part of their studies. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs, but should not interfere with the intensive flight training schedule.
The course is delivered at SFC Tamworth Pilot Training Academy, located at 2 Packer St, WESTDALE, NSW 2340, in the Bankstown region. Tamworth is a regional city in northern NSW known for its aviation industry and flight training facilities. The campus provides a focused environment with access to airfields and controlled airspace. Bankstown, while a suburb of Sydney, is noted in the CRICOS register as the delivery location context. Students should consider the regional setting: lower cost of living compared to Sydney, good public transport to the campus, and a supportive student community. New South Wales has many CRICOS-registered providers, and Tamworth offers a unique advantage for practical flight training with less congested airspace.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Visa conditions include maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including access to refunds and complaint mechanisms. For visa application details, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) at Schofields Flying Club Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register to verify that Schofields Flying Club Ltd (CRICOS 04349E) offers this course. Compare course details, fees, and locations. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications) and submit your application before deadlines. Contact Schofields Flying Club Ltd for application forms and procedures. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Then apply for a student visa online, including OSHC and evidence of funds.
New South Wales is Australia's most populous state, with 300+ CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. For aviation students, the state offers diverse training environments from city-based flight schools to regional campuses like Tamworth. Living costs in regional areas are notably lower than in Sydney: average weekly rent for a one-bedroom unit in Tamworth is around A$200–A$250, while Sydney averages A$500–A$700. Public transport in regional centres is manageable, but many students prefer having a car. The student population in Tamworth is smaller, providing a quiet study atmosphere. Consider your preference for urban vs. rural lifestyle and access to airfields when choosing.
Ready to start your aviation career? Explore your options and apply today via the official CRICOS register.
Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence - Aeroplane) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Schofields Flying Club 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.