Diploma of Visual Arts (CRICOS course code 119082E) is a Diploma delivered by Sydney Art School Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for international students seeking to develop technical and conceptual skills in visual arts, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media. Delivered at the Hornsby Studio in Hornsby, NSW, this course provides a pathway to further study or creative industry employment. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 03554G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Sydney Art School is a private provider offering specialised arts education in a supportive studio environment.
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This Diploma falls under the field of Visual Arts and Crafts (100300), encompassing a broad range of creative practices. Students typically learn to apply advanced techniques in various media, develop a personal artistic style, and understand art history and theory. The curriculum balances practical studio work with critical analysis, preparing graduates for roles such as studio artist, gallery assistant, or community arts worker. While specific subjects are set by Sydney Art School, the course aims to build a portfolio that demonstrates proficiency across multiple visual arts disciplines. This qualification is nationally recognised under the VET code CUA51125.
The Diploma of Visual Arts runs for 1 year (52 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at the Hornsby Studio, with a full-time study load typical for Diploma level. This structure allows international students to immerse themselves in the creative community of northern Sydney while meeting student visa requirements for full-time study.
Tuition for this course is A$9,800 (indicative), with non-tuition fees listed as A$0. The estimated total cost is A$9,800. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Fees are set by the provider and subject to change—always confirm directly with Sydney Art School at http://sydneyartschool.com.au before applying. For context, the cost of living in Sydney (including Hornsby) is higher than many Australian cities: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment in Hornsby ranges from A$250 to A$400, plus groceries (A$100–150) and transport (A$40–60). These figures are guides only.
International students typically need an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 or Certificate IV. For this Diploma level, prior study or experience in visual arts is often expected but not always mandatory—check with Sydney Art School for specific prerequisites. If you do not meet direct entry, the provider may offer foundation or pathway options; contact them for details. English test results must be no more than two years old at time of application.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This means you can gain part-time experience in creative industries while studying, but the course itself does not include a placement or internship.
The Diploma of Visual Arts is delivered in Hornsby, NSW at two locations: HORNSBY NSW (general area) and Hornsby Studio - 63 Hunter St HORNSBY NSW 2077. Hornsby is a major suburban centre in northern Sydney, with a growing international student population. The studio is easily accessible by train (Hornsby station is on the North Shore line) and bus services. The area has a vibrant arts scene with galleries and community workshops nearby. Sydney as a whole has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, and Hornsby itself hosts several institutions offering diverse courses.
International students enrolling in this Diploma require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa mandates full-time study, maintenance of OSHC health cover, and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. You must also demonstrate financial capacity for tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student, per Department of Home Affairs), and travel. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition fee protection and quality standards.
To apply for the Diploma of Visual Arts at Sydney Art School Pty Ltd, follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Visual Arts), and location (Hornsby/NSW) to confirm the course meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit an application to Sydney Art School, meeting their entry requirements (English test results, prior qualifications, portfolio if required). Check deadlines and accept the offer. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once you accept your offer, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant status.
Hornsby offers a quieter, more affordable alternative to Sydney's city centre while still being well-connected. With a population of around 25,000, it has a strong sense of community and access to natural attractions like Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. For art students, the Hornsby Art Society and local galleries provide networking opportunities. However, the creative industry hub is in the CBD, about a 45-minute train ride away. Consider your preference for a suburban vs. urban lifestyle. Living costs in Hornsby are lower than in the city, but public transport costs are similar. This course is best suited for students who value a focused studio environment over the hustle of downtown.
Ready to start your visual arts journey? Contact Sydney Art School for application details and check the CRICOS register for current course status.
Diploma of Visual Arts is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney Art School 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.