Study Bachelor of Aviation (Flight) at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

This degree is only available to International students

You're considered an International student if you are:

NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)

International students

Start date
February
July

Campus
Mawson Lakes

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
LBAF

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 41,700 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

English Language Requirements

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
095900M

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.

Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.

Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:

Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points

Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.

OR
Higher education study

Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above

OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above

OR
Work and life experience

Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past

Essential requirements for admission

Prerequisites

None

Assumed Knowledge

None

English language entry requirements

In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:

English language test

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)

Admission Requirements by Country

Norway GPA	3
Pakistan HSSC	85
Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3)	7
Sweden GPA	13
UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board	7
Vietnam	7.5
Australia	70
IB (best 6)	26
USA SAT (1600)	1110
India (best 4) State Board	75
India (best 4) Central Board	65
HKDSE	15
Nepal NEB	2.61
Bangladesh HSC	4
Canada High School (OSSD)	65
Eynesbury FSP	330
German Abitur	3.5
Kenya KCSE (average)	B+
Malaysia STPM (best 3)	6
Malaysia UEC	30

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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Please note this program is no longer available from SP5, 2024. Please refer to the Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot) for both domestic and international students.

Degree overview

Take the first steps towards becoming a pilot.
Receive flight training theory and practical flying from our partner Flight Training Adelaide (FTA).
Choose one of three different flying pathways^* leading to pilot licenses and ratings such as CPL, CIR and M/E.
Option to get 15-20 hours of flight experience in your first year.
Use our on-campus B737 and A320 simulators.

*Specific entry requirements apply.

Snapshot

Make your dreams of becoming a pilot reality with an innovative aviation degree. The Bachelor of Aviation (Flight) is the starting point for all international students wanting to fly.

Within the first semester, you’ll be presented with a choice of three flying pathways, each with specific entry requirements. See the Bachelor of Aviation flyer for further details.

Our flagship pathway leads you to pilot licences and ratings to make you entry-level airline ready. This pathway includes co-enrolment in the Graduate Diploma in Aviation and transfer to Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot).

Our other flying pathways see you remain in the Bachelor of Aviation (Flight) and undertake Flight Experience, a course in first year where you will log approximately 15-20 hours of dual flight time in a single engine aircraft with the possibility of a solo flight for those who meet the competencies.

For all pathways, flight training is offered by our partner Flight Training Adelaide (FTA), located at Parafield Airport, right beside Mawson Lakes campus. We work in close partnership with industry to ensure you will graduate ready to meet the predicted global demand for pilots¹.

¹Boeing 20-year Pilot, Technician and Cabin Crew Outlook 2020 - 2039

What you'll need

Specific requirements for the various flying pathways can be found in the Bachelor of Aviation flyer.

For the flight training component of this degree, you must hold a minimum of a Class II Medical with at least 6 months validity. You must also remain compliant with the Aviation Academy’s Drug and Alcohol Management Plan (DAMP).

What you'll learn

You will undertake general studies in aviation including an introduction to human factors and safety management systems. You will do Flight Training Theory 1 and 2, taught by instructors from the flight training provider. These courses prepare you for CASA Commercial Pilot Licence theory examinations.

As your studies progress, you will explore more advanced and theoretical areas including meteorology, law, human factors and aspects of the flight and performance of large aircraft systems. You will also study communication and aviation management. Your technical studies will include aerodynamics, heavy aircraft systems, navigation and risk and safety management.

Flight Experience is part of this degree. If you don’t take up Flight Experience, this course will be replaced by two electives.

Further detail on the flying pathways (including Flight Experience) and their entry requirements can be found in the Bachelor of Aviation flyer.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2, or 3)
Introduction to Aviation	AERO 1022	4.5
Introduction to Aviation Management	AERO 1024	4.5
Professional and Technical Communication	COMM 1065	4.5
Aviation Law	AERO 1014	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5, 6)
Flight Training Theory 1	AERO 1021	4.5	Note(s): 4,5,7
Aviation Practice	AERO 1020	4.5
Introduction to Aviation Safety	AERO 1025	4.5
Aviation Physics 1	AERO 1011	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 6, 7)
Flight Experience	AERO 1026	9	Note(s): 3	Rule(s): 1
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Commercial Pilot Theory	AERO 2064	13.5	Note(s): 4,6,8
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5, or 6)
Theory on Navigation & Aircraft Systems	AERO 3022	4.5
Theory on Aircraft Performance & Flight Planning	AERO 3021	4.5
Undergraduate Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Aviation Project 1	AERO 3013	4.5
Advanced Pilot Theory	AERO 2063	4.5
Aviation Physics 2	AERO 1027	4.5
Safety and Risk Management for Aviation Professionals	AERO 3016	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5, or 6)
Airline Operations Management	AERO 2058	4.5
Large Aircraft Flight Operations	AERO 3020	4.5
Aviation Elective		4.5	Note(s): 2	Rule(s): 3
Aviation Project 2	AERO 3012	4.5

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
Aviation Electives
Quantitative Methods for Business	MATH 1053	4.5
Humans in Aviation: People, Systems and Safety	AERO 2053	4.5
Human Performance & Limitations in Aviation	AERO 1017	4.5
Principles of Economics	ECON 1008	4.5
Management and Organisation	BUSS 2068	4.5
Aviation Economics	AERO 2059	4.5
Project Management: Principles and Strategies	INFS 2022	4.5
Foundations of Airline Finance	AERO 2057	4.5
Aviation Marketing	AERO 2060	4.5
Advanced Aviation Electives
Air Space Management	AERO 3019	4.5
Organisational Leadership	BUSS 3050	4.5
Airport Management	AERO 3017	4.5
Aviation Strategic Management	AERO 3018	4.5

Rules & notes

Rules

1. Students undertaking the Flight Experience course must hold a minimum of a Class II Medical with at least 6 months' validity, and must remain compliant with the Aviation Academy's Drug and Alcohol Management Plan (DAMP).

2. Internal transfer into this program is not permitted. All applications for entry must be made via UniSA International.

3. This course must be taken from the advanced elective list.

Notes

1. The Undergraduate Elective is a course that students freely choose from any area of the University, generally outside of their specialist field of study. Students must choose one Undergraduate Elective based on availability and fulfilment of any prerequisites.

2. Other elective options not listed here may only be taken with Program Director approval.

3. The Flight Experience course gives students the opportunity to log approximately 15-20 hours of dual flight time, and a short solo flight for those who meet the competencies. Students who do not pass this 9-unit course must request an updated study plan.

4. This course is delivered in intensive mode.

5. This course should be completed in the study period preceding the commencement of LGAN Graduate Diploma in Aviation. Students who complete this course prior to admission may be disqualified from entry into the Graduate Diploma. Students who are yet to be accepted into the Graduate Diploma should seek enrolment advice from the Program Director.

6. Credit will not be granted for the course Commercial Pilot Theory (AERO 2064) for students concurrently enrolled in the Graduate Diploma of Aviation or for those who intend to apply to study for the Graduate Diploma in Aviation unless this course has been previously attempted at UniSA within the previous 12 months and all relevant CASA exams have been passed. Students not intending on enrolling in Graduate Diploma of Aviation may be eligible for a maximum of 4.5 credit points towards AERO 2064 in recognition of prior learning, in consultation with the Program Director.

7. Students must attend 80%* of their scheduled workshops to be considered for entry into LGAN Graduate Diploma in Aviation or participation in the course AERO 1026 Flight Experience. *Students must provide evidence of medical or compassionate grounds for not meeting this limit.

8. Students must attend 80% of their scheduled workshops to be eligible to remain in the LGAN Graduate Diploma in Aviation by meeting CASA integrated timeline requirements for their flight training. *Students must provide evidence of medical or compassionate grounds for not meeting this limit.

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

practical tasks and tests
practical assessments (e.g. flight, navigation)
essays and assignments examinations
an industry-relevant project
an oral or online presentation

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Why Bachelor of Aviation (Flight)

The greatest benefit of our aviation offering at UniSA is its flexibility.

Every international student starts in the Bachelor of Aviation (Flight). You’ll then be presented with three flying pathway options, their entry requirements, benefits and career pathways.

Options range from a flagship pathway leading you to be entry level airline-ready, to CPL pathways, or even the option of a bachelor degree only. Further detail can be found in the Bachelor of Aviation flyer.

All flight training components are taught by FTA, a world-renowned flying school that trains pilots for Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, Qantas, Starlux Airlines and Indigo.

We focus on hands-on, practical knowledge. You will train in our state-of-the-art flight and airport simulators and study and learn on the latest industry software. Through this degree you will develop an in-depth knowledge of aerodynamics, aircraft power plants and systems, meteorology, navigation, flight planning, computer controlled flight management systems and flight operation technology.

Real-world connections

UniSA has a track record for partnerships and developing new technologies for industry. We are one of Australia's leading universities for Engineering research (UniSA's Engineering research rated well above world-class - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)). We collaborate with over 2,500 companies worldwide. These extensive industry connections give us a truly competitive edge – our students get real-world skills and contacts.

This program offers aviation theory based on the CASA Commercial Pilot and Airline Transport Pilot syllabus. Our partnership with Flight Training Adelaide (FTA) draws on mutual experience and expertise to deliver Commercial Pilot Theory content within this program.

We also host regular University-wide employee master classes and employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Hear from Bachelor of Aviation (Flight) student, Rishabh Singh

Career outcomes

Your career

Within the next 20 years, it is predicted there will be a demand of 837,000 new personnel required in the Asia-Pacific region. Although the aviation industry is currently experiencing a downturn driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, the long-term need remains robust with anticipation of growth to the sector in coming years.¹

With this growth, it is an exciting time to be planning a career in the aviation industry. Here are some careers to consider:

Professional airline Pilot
Charter pilot
Military careers
Aircraft maintenance
Aircraft manufacturing
Remote pilot
Air traffic management

¹Boeing 20-year Pilot, Technician and Cabin Crew Outlook 2020 - 2039

Industry facts

Boeing predicts an additional 602,000 commercial airline pilots will be needed worldwide between now and 2041

(2022 Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook)

Commercial air traffic is expected to recover to 2019 levels by 2024

(2022 Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook)

By 2038, global air travel transport is forecasted to support 143 million jobs and contribute $6.3 trillion to the global economy

(Aviation: Benefits Beyond Borders 2022)

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

career advice and mentoring
help with student visas and health cover
personal counselling
academic counselling
fees and finance help
common rooms
prayer rooms
security officers
accommodation services
as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your study spaces

The UniSA’s Aviation Academy at Parafield Airport is fully equipped for flight training with networked classrooms, simulators housed in climate and sound-controlled rooms, and aircraft maintenance hangars. There is also a student lounge, briefing rooms for one-on-one time with instructors, and a flight planning area.

An operations room is staffed by qualified personnel who maintain a ‘flight watch’ service for all FTA aircraft in the air. Students have immediate access to weather, NOTAMS and other flight planning data as required.

Your program director

I’m an academic leading the UniSA’s aviation program. I teach courses and conduct research into aviation, especially on airlines and airports. My colleagues and I work on projects across all aspects in aviation, thereby enabling relevance and connections with the industry. Our aviation team comprises of experts in specific aviation sub-sectors such as flight operations, human factors, airport management and accident investigation. Both our industry collaboration and technical knowledge enable our coursework and materials to be distinctive in satisfying the needs of the ever-changing industry and ensuring academic excellence.

AsPr Paul Lee

Program Director

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AsPr Paul Lee

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How to apply?

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
Is there a closing date for applications?

There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

More FAQs

What others are saying

I’ve always enjoyed travelling around in planes since I was young and had always admired people in that field. I chose to study aviation at UniSA mainly because of the program structure and being able to concurrently complete my flight training and university degree together at the same time. I am based at Mawson Lakes Campus, which is a nice area with convenient transport, all necessities easily accessible, and closeby to Parafield Airport where I do my flight training. I've really enjoyed the flexibility of my program and the close interactions between students and staff at UniSA.

Anjelin Lim

Bachelor of Aviation (Flight)