The Australian Institute of Music Limited - CRICOS Registered Provider 00665C

Maintained by HeadStart Academy editorial · CRICOS snapshot Apr 2026 · Recalculated this build (2026-10-06) · How we rank · Is this legit? Page type: institution profile. Not a paid endorsement of any provider.

Provider Type and What It Means

As a 'Private' CRICOS-registered provider, The Australian Institute of Music operates independently of government funding and public university systems. Private providers in Australia include private colleges, language schools, and independent specialist institutions like AIM. They are accredited to deliver courses to international students under the same CRICOS framework as public universities. The key advantage is often smaller class sizes, focused industry connections, and flexible course structures. However, it's important to verify that your chosen course is CRICOS-registered — which all 39 of AIM's active courses are. Private providers must meet the same rigorous standards for student support, infrastructure, and quality assurance as public institutions. AIM's private status means it can offer niche specialisations in creative arts that may not be available at larger universities.

Delivery Locations

The Australian Institute of Music delivers courses in two Australian cities: Sydney (The Rocks) and Melbourne. Both campuses are centrally located with excellent public transport access.

• 66 Harrington St, The Rocks, NSW 2000: This is AIM's main campus in Sydney's historic Rocks district, near Circular Quay and Wynyard station. The Rocks is a vibrant cultural precinct with galleries, music venues, and easy access to the city. Sydney has over 120 CRICOS-registered providers, and typical living costs for an international student are approximately $600–$800 per week for rent, groceries, and transport.
• Melbourne Campus, VIC 3000: Located in Melbourne's CBD, this campus is close to Flinders Street Station and the city's famous laneways. Melbourne is Australia's largest student city with over 150 CRICOS providers. Living costs are similar to Sydney, around $600–$750 per week. Both campuses are easily accessible by train, tram, and bus.

Courses by Level

The Australian Institute of Music offers 39 active courses across 8 different CRICOS course levels. This variety allows students to enter at their appropriate academic level, from foundation to research. The levels offered include:

• Non AQF Award: Short courses or preparatory programs (non-degree).
• Diploma: Typically 1–2 year foundational qualifications.
• Associate Degree: 2-year programs equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor's.
• Bachelor Degree: 3–4 year undergraduate degrees, the most common entry point for international students.
• Graduate Certificate: Short postgraduate programs (6 months).
• Graduate Diploma: Longer postgraduate programs (1 year).
• Masters Degree (Coursework): 1–2 year taught master's programs.
• Masters Degree (Research): Research-focused master's with thesis.

While we don't have exact numbers per level, bachelor's and master's degrees are the most popular among international students. Many programs are designed to build skills in performance, composition, or music business.

Fields of Education

AIM's courses fall under three broad ASCED (Australian Standard Classification of Education) fields:

• 10 - Creative Arts: This is AIM's core specialisation, covering music performance, composition, production, songwriting, and musicology. Most courses fall under this field.
• 08 - Management and Commerce: Includes music industry management, arts administration, and entrepreneurship programs that blend creative skills with business acumen.
• 12 - Mixed Field Programmes: Interdisciplinary courses that combine creative arts with other areas like technology or education.

The combination of creative arts with management and commerce is unique to AIM, giving students both artistic and practical business skills for careers in the music industry.

Student Visa Context

International students enrolled in CRICOS-registered courses at AIM are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include:

• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE): You must demonstrate a genuine intention to study and return home after your studies.
• OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover): Mandatory health insurance for the duration of your visa.
• English Language Proficiency: Typically IELTS 6.0–6.5 (or equivalent) depending on the course level.
• Financial Capacity: Evidence you can cover tuition, living costs ($21,041 per year for a single student in 2026), and travel.
• ESOS Act Protections: Your rights as an international student are protected under Australian law, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver the course.

For detailed visa guidance, see our [Student Visa Subclass 500 guide](/visa/student-visa-subclass-500). Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personal visa advice.

How to Apply to The Australian Institute of Music Limited

Applying to AIM as an international student is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Browse AIM's 39 courses on HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au). Filter by course level (e.g., Bachelor Degree) and field (Creative Arts) to find your ideal program. Check entry requirements, which may include an audition or portfolio for music courses. 2. Apply directly to AIM: Submit your application through AIM's website (www.aim.edu.au) or via an authorised education agent. You'll need academic transcripts, English test scores, and any portfolio/audition materials. Deadlines vary by intake — typically February, July, and October. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa: If accepted, AIM issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements. Once your visa is granted, you can travel to Australia and begin your studies.

CRICOS Verification

Always confirm an institution's CRICOS registration before applying. The Australian Institute of Music Limited's registration status can be verified on the official CRICOS register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au using provider code 00665C. As of April 2026, AIM has 39 active courses registered under this code. CRICOS registration is your primary trust signal — only registered providers can legally enrol international students. You can also check AIM's current capacity (497) and any changes to course offerings. Remember, registration may change, so verify before enrolment.

Start your journey to study at The Australian Institute of Music today. Browse their 39 CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy and take the first step toward your music career in Australia.

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