The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 7 — Bachelor Degree is the standard undergraduate qualification offered by universities and higher education providers across Australia. It typically takes three to four years of full-time study and is globally recognised. For international students, this level is critical because it determines course eligibility for a Subclass 500 student visa, skilled migration pathways, and further study. All CRICOS-registered bachelor degrees sit at AQF Level 7, ensuring consistency and quality. Understanding this helps you navigate the CRICOS register, meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, and plan your study and career in Australia.
AQF Level 7 — Bachelor Degree is the most common target for international students. It directly affects your ability to obtain a Subclass 500 student visa, as most bachelor programs satisfy course level requirements. When searching for courses on the CRICOS register, you will see the AQF level listed — ensuring you choose a qualification that is registered for international students. This level also plays a role in the GTE assessment, as your course choice must align with your academic background and career plans. Additionally, ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, including bachelor degrees, meaning you have legal rights as a student. Without this level, you may not be able to access certain post-study work rights or meet educational requirements for skilled migration.
AQF Level 7 is defined by the Australian Qualifications Framework, a national policy that ensures consistency across education sectors. Bachelor degrees are issued by individual providers, which must be registered by TEQSA (for universities) or ASQA (for private higher education providers). On certificates, the degree is expressed as 'Bachelor of [Field]', for example, 'Bachelor of Business'. All CRICOS-registered bachelor courses are listed with AQF Level 7 on the CRICOS database. There are no set deadlines for this level, but providers must maintain CRICOS registration to enrol international students. As of April 2026, there are over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,433 courses across all levels, with bachelor degrees comprising a substantial portion. Fees vary widely by institution and location; always check the provider's website for current fees.
Meet Maria from Brazil. She wants to study Business in Australia. She searches the CRICOS register and finds a course called 'Bachelor of Business' at a university in Sydney. The listing confirms AQF Level 7. She checks that the provider is CRICOS-registered and that the course meets visa requirements. She applies directly, receives a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), and then applies for a Subclass 500 student visa. Because the course is AQF Level 7, her visa application is straightforward. She also arranges Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) as required. Later, she might use this degree for a post-study work visa (if eligible) or further study at a master's level. If she had chosen a diploma (AQF Level 5 or 6), the visa and pathway options would differ.
Misconception 1: 'All bachelor degrees are three years long.' In reality, some bachelor programs, especially in engineering or combined degrees, require four years. The duration depends on the field and institution. Misconception 2: 'Only universities can offer AQF Level 7 degrees.' Private colleges that are CRICOS-registered and accredited by TEQSA or ASQA can also offer bachelor degrees. Misconception 3: 'A bachelor degree is mandatory for skilled migration.' While many skilled occupations require a bachelor, some vocational occupations accept diplomas or advanced diplomas. Always check the relevant skilled occupation list for exact requirements.
Explore CRICOS-registered bachelor degrees on HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au).