Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) (CRICOS course code 117642E) is a Diploma delivered by Schofields Flying Club Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. The course falls under the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology, preparing students for advanced pilot roles with a focus on instrument flying. Schofields Flying Club Ltd (CRICOS 04349E) is a private provider with delivery locations in Tamworth and Bankstown, New South Wales. As an international student, you will gain hands-on training in flight simulators and aircraft, building the skills needed for a career in aviation. This page provides detailed information about fees, entry requirements, visa pathways, and how to apply. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, and HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees.
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The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is classified under the field of education 0315 - Aerospace Engineering and Technology. This AQF Level 5 qualification focuses on the knowledge and skills required to operate aircraft under instrument flight rules (IFR). Students learn to interpret flight instruments, navigate using radio aids, manage aircraft systems, and handle emergency procedures in simulated instrument conditions. The course typically includes theoretical components such as aerodynamics, meteorology, flight planning, and human factors, alongside practical flight training. Graduates are prepared for roles as commercial pilots with an instrument rating, enabling them to fly in a wider range of weather conditions and airspace. While specific syllabi may vary, this diploma equips students with competencies aligned with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements for an instrument rating. The course also develops critical thinking, decision-making, and communication skills essential for aviation professionals.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation study options). The course is delivered full-time, with a combination of classroom theory, simulator sessions, and flight training. Students are expected to commit to a structured schedule, often including at least 20 hours per week of supervised learning. As a CRICOS-registered course, it complies with the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student protections. International students must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress to comply with visa conditions. The intensive nature of aviation training means students should be prepared for a demanding but rewarding study program. Always check with Schofields Flying Club Ltd for the most current timetable and delivery mode.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is A$67,415, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, making an estimated total of A$67,415. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. This amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), or the student visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC costs around A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs in NSW may range from A$21,000 to A$30,000 annually depending on location and lifestyle. Always confirm current fees directly with Schofields Flying Club Ltd before applying. HeadStart Academy is not affiliated with the provider and does not receive any commissions or referral fees.
As a guide, international students typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) to enter a Diploma-level program. Prior academic qualifications, such as completion of Year 12 or a Certificate IV, are generally expected. Specific prerequisites for this aviation course may include a valid medical certificate (CASA Class 1 or 2) and possibly a previous pilot license or aeronautical knowledge. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the direct entry requirements — refer to Schofields Flying Club Ltd for details. All entry conditions are set by the provider and may include interviews, aptitude tests, or flight assessments. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the institution directly to confirm your eligibility.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake a work placement or internship as part of the qualification. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) is delivered at two locations: SFC Tamworth Pilot Training Academy, 2 Packer St, Westdale NSW 2340, and a campus in Bankstown, NSW. Tamworth is a regional city with a strong aviation history and lower living costs compared to Sydney. Bankstown, in metropolitan Sydney, is near Bankstown Airport, a major general aviation hub. Both locations offer good public transport connections. When choosing a location, consider your lifestyle and budget: regional NSW may provide a more affordable living experience, while Sydney offers greater diversity and job opportunities. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, including many in aviation, but only CRICOS-registered institutions can enrol international students.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. The visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. You must also show financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, ensuring quality education and tuition fee safeguards. For visa application support, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) at Schofields Flying Club Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that Schofields Flying Club Ltd (CRICOS 04349E) is listed and that course code 117642E is active. Compare this course with other aviation diplomas across Australia.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Schofields Flying Club Ltd for an application form, submit required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, medical certificate), and meet any entry requirements. Ensure you apply early to allow time for visa processing.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. After visa grant, you can commence your studies.
New South Wales (NSW) is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, including several specialising in aviation training. Sydney, as the state capital, offers numerous flight schools and universities, while regional centres like Tamworth provide specialised aviation facilities with lower living costs. Indicative weekly living expenses in Sydney for a single student are around A$500–A$700 (rent, groceries, transport), while Tamworth may be A$350–A$500. The state has excellent public transport, with buses and trains connecting campuses to city centres. When choosing a location, consider factors such as weather (for flying conditions), proximity to airports, and lifestyle preferences. HeadStart Academy's data covers 26,433 courses across all states, helping you find the right fit.
Ready to take the next step? Start your application process by contacting Schofields Flying Club Ltd directly. For more information on student visas, visit our Student Visa Subclass 500 guide.
Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) 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.