How a Graduate Diploma in Australia Could Be Your Ticket to the 485 Graduate Visa

If you’re an international student in Australia (or thinking about becoming one), this post might just be the sign you’ve been looking for.

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves: Graduate Diplomas. Yep, these often-overlooked courses could actually be your golden ticket to staying in Australia longer and legally working full-time.

The Power of a Two-Year Graduate Diploma

Here’s the deal: If you study a Graduate Diploma (or a package of diplomas) that runs for at least two years, you could become eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa – subclass 485. That visa allows you to stay in Australia after completing your course and gives you the freedom to work full-time.

That’s huge!

Imagine finishing your studies and immediately being able to gain real-world experience in your field without packing up your life just yet. It’s a game-changer for a lot of students we work with.

One of the Most Popular Options: Management (Learning)

Now, one course we really want to shine a light on is the Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning).

This course is ideal for anyone looking to level up in leadership, team development, and organisational training. Think of it like this: You’ll be learning how to help others learn. You’ll gain skills that help businesses improve employee performance, boost engagement, and ultimately run more efficiently.

Whether you want to work in HR, management, marketing, or even in consulting roles, this course sets a strong foundation for those career paths.

And here’s the cherry on top: it’s recognised across the country, available Australia-wide, and best of all—it ticks the box for that 2-year study requirement for the 485 visa.

What About the Cost?

Don’t worry, we’re not talking about sky-high university fees here. This course starts from around $8,800 per year, which means the total cost is approximately $17,600 for the entire two-year course. Most schools offer flexible monthly payment plans, so you won’t be hit with one massive fee upfront.

It’s an affordable and smart choice for students who want more than just a qualification—they want a pathway to work and live in Australia longer.

So, What Exactly Is the 485 Visa?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) gives international students the chance to live, study, and work full-time in Australia after completing eligible qualifications.

Depending on what you study, you could stay anywhere from 18 months up to 5 years. And that’s not just time to explore the country (though yes, that’s a bonus)—it’s time to get job experience, network, and possibly transition to a more permanent visa down the road.

Why Students Are Choosing This Route

We speak to students all the time who are looking for options that give them more flexibility and value. Many don’t want to commit to a long, expensive university degree—and that’s where graduate diplomas really shine.

With the right diploma and guidance, you can:

• Build advanced, practical skills in your field

• Meet visa requirements

• Work full-time after graduation

• Keep your future options open

It’s honestly one of the smartest paths available, especially if you’re thinking strategically about your future here.

Let’s Make It Easy

If all of this sounds interesting but a little overwhelming—don’t stress. That’s exactly what Pathway to Aus is here for.

We’ll help you find the right course, confirm that it meets the visa criteria, and walk you through the process from start to finish. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

We’ve helped hundreds of students just like you take this route and it’s always so rewarding to see where they end up. Many with jobs they love and some even on the road to permanent residency.

Final Thoughts

If you’re an international student in Australia and thinking about your next step, a Graduate Diploma—especially in Management (Learning)—could be a smart, cost-effective move that gives you time, experience, and a real shot at staying in the country longer.

Want to know more about this course, the 485 visa, or any other study options? Reach out to us at Pathway to Aus. We’re more than happy to have a chat and help you figure out what works best for your goals.