Diploma Engineering Full Time

Diploma of Flying (Pilot Cadetship)

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

104537B

CRICOS provider code

00122A

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$117,600 total

Per year

A$117,600/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Diploma of Flying (Pilot Cadetship) at RMIT University is tailored for those aiming to launch a professional career as a pilot. Set in Melbourne, this diploma is structured over one year and involves a sequence of practical and theoretical units focused on core pilot training. You will cover essential aviation knowledge, flight procedures, aviation safety, navigation, meteorology, and communication. The curriculum follows the frameworks used in Australian flight training to prepare students for the requirements of the Australian aviation sector.

Australia's diploma qualifications are typically completed over two semesters, with study based on units that add up to a set number of credit points. RMIT structures this diploma to align with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) for diplomas, and the learning is very hands-on. A substantial component comes from flying hours and practical assessments in both real aircraft and simulators, giving you experience that is recognised by industry in Australia.

The course suits those who are practical learners and who want to move quickly into aviation. It is especially relevant for international students who want to transition into a pilot cadet program, as it combines technical skill-building, teamwork, decision-making, and the safety standards expected in Australian aviation. RMIT University maintains strong ties with the aviation industry, supporting students with work-integrated learning opportunities where available and preparing graduates for entry into airline cadet programs or charter operations.

International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) upon graduation, depending on government settings. English proficiency is a must, and RMIT accepts a range of English qualifications — details should be confirmed on the official page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Commercial pilot for charter or regional airlines
Pilot cadet with airline training programs
Flight instructor (with further study)
Aviation operations roles
General aviation and tourism sector roles
Sectors hiring include commercial airlines, training organisations, and aerial services in Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Diploma of Flying (Pilot Cadetship) at RMIT University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$117,600 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Commercial pilot for charter or regional airlinesPilot cadet with airline training programsFlight instructor (with further study)Aviation operations rolesGeneral aviation and tourism sector rolesSectors hiring include commercial airlines, training organisations, and aerial servic...

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