Frequently Asked Questions

These are some of the most frequently asked questions about Abbey Road Institute Sydney and CUA60520 Advanced Diploma of Music. If there is a question that we didn’t answer, we are more than happy to help with whatever you need, so contact us at any time to chat with one of our team.

 

What does the new Sydney campus offer?

Students studying with us at the new Abbey Road Institute Sydney campus are able to book dedicated production rooms at Studios 301, alongside the well-established business and high-profile clients within the commercial studios. Studios 301 has been home to recordings by not only the biggest Australian artists but some of the biggest artists in the world. Most recently from homegrown acts like Cold Chisel, Delta Goodrem, The Avalanches, Amy Shark and Tones & I to internationals such as Coldplay, Lizzo, Katy Perry, Zedd and Elton John.

The school also has a dedicated teaching space which includes a classroom with 1 workstation per person. Students also have access to the main recording studios for recording workshops and dedicated masterclasses.

 

What does an average week look like at Abbey Road Institute?

Our CUA60520 Advanced Diploma of Music is an intensive, full-time course. You will have a daily timetable of lectures with our core team as well as regular lectures with industry experts and guests. Classes usually take place Monday to Thursday with Friday’s dedicated to workshops, masterclasses and other complimentary classes.

We encourage you to use the studios and equipment as much as possible to make the most of your time at Abbey Road Institute Sydney.

 

Who studies the CUA60520 Advanced Diploma of Music? Is the course right for me?

Our CUA60520 Advanced Diploma of Music is an accredited, registered training program which will give you the knowledge, skills, and access to the professional networks needed to drive you forward in the audio production and music industry. We encourage applications from students from diverse backgrounds and musical interests. You will need to demonstrate the required level of skills as detailed in the entry requirements, but we’re not looking for students interested in any specific ‘type’ of music or genre. The course is intensive and we encourage you to apply if you are passionate about the subject, driven to work hard and want to immerse yourself in a dynamic, professional studio environment.

 

What kinds of jobs do Abbey Road Institute graduates go onto after they study?

Our alumni have been working and creating through many diverse industry pathways. These roles include work at Studios 301, freelance work, live events, post-production and more.

Check out the dedicated Alumni section of our website where you can learn more about our homegrown and international alumni who are contributing to the future of the music industry and carving their own way with confidence.

 

What should I include in my application?

Your application is your opportunity to demonstrate that you meet the entry requirements necessary to study and succeed. So that we can assess your suitability for study and offer you an interview, you will need to supply us the following documents:

  • A Music Portfolio (ideally four productions in which highlight your skills as either a performer, producer, programmer, engineer, songwriter etc). Please label the portfolio or submit further documentation to explain your role in each production. If you don’t have 4 yet please submit what you can. We do not expect to receive high-quality productions but are simply looking to gauge your level of music comprehension and experience.
  • Copies of previous academic qualifications.
  • Music qualifications – if you don’t have a formal music qualification please state your level of music knowledge and experience in your covering letter.
  • A cover letter. This is where you can explain your motivation to study, career goals and provide further explanation about your background (recordings, composing, performances etc). You should also explain your musical abilities, eg. which instrument you play, what level of music comprehension you have.
  • Your Curriculum Vitae demonstrating your work and/or educational background.
  • Copy of photographic ID, this is usually a scan of your passport or drivers license.
  • NOTE: If you do not meet the above criteria please contact us for more information on Alternate Entry.

 

How do I apply?

The application process is straightforward. You can start via our online application portal here. You will need to complete all of the necessary questions and upload supporting documents. All applicants will be required to attend an interview with one of our engagement staff. If you are applying from out of state or a regional location, we can interview you on Skype or a similar platform.

We will notify you of the outcome of your application within a few days of your interview. If you have any questions or need any support with the online application process please contact our Admissions team who will be very happy to help.

 

I am an international student, can I apply to Abbey Road Institute

Unfortunately, Abbey Road Institute Sydney is not currently able to sponsor visas for international students. You will only be able to study with us if you do not need a study visa to study in Australia. We expect that this will change in the future, so please feel free to let us know you are interested in coming to study from overseas and we will keep you up-to-date on our international student status. Some foreign nationals already in Australia are able to undertake studies depending on their visa sub-class. For more information, speak to the Department of Home Affairs or one of our admissions team.

Before I was at Abbey Road, it was easy to write a song, and get a singer. But the songwriting process doesn’t work like that. It was important to understand vocal production, writing, and music. It should all happen simultaneously.

Joel Robinson, Graduate

Abbey Road really helped me with the foundation of audio. It’s an overwhelming subject at first, but [the course] really breaks it down and really makes it digestible.

Charlotte Adelle, Graduate

The time I spent at Abbey Road Institute helped me transform my skills. I came from a bedroom producer who made music as a hobby to an audio professional.

Phoenix Manson, Graduate

Abbey Road was the perfect stepping stone into my professional career as an artist and audio engineer.

Alex Braithwaite, Graduate

Studying the past year at Abbey Road has been phenomenal. The teaching staff are top notch and I now have a community of people to draw on who are as obsessed with music as me.  

Emily Toner, Graduate