CG Spectrum Institute is part of CG Spectrum’s ongoing evolution, which means that although there are some similarities between the two leading creative industry education providers, there are also some fundamental differences. 

Key Differences:

• CGSI is registered with TEQSA, and all their creative courses are accredited, meaning students will graduate with a diploma or a bachelor’s degree (depending on which exit they take) that is internationally recognised—assisting with future employment and future study. 
• Students will study a broader range of topics, including film and game practices and processes, as well as creative concepts and principles, providing more contextual content that expands beyond the practical technical portfolio work. 
• CGSI's accredited courses are longer and more intensive than CG Spectrum's courses but are actually still shorter than most typical degrees—two years instead of three. The bachelor’s degrees take two years full-time, and the diplomas take seven months full-time (part-time study options are also available).
• FEE-HELP is available for eligible Australian students, meaning they don't have to pay any course fees upfront.
• Entry requirements are more formal than a non-accredited institution. (See "What is the application process" below for more information).
• CGSI does not offer 1-on-1 mentorship, which is an option if you study at CGS. 

For a full list of similarities and differences, head to our page:

WHAT MAKES CGSI UNIQUE?

Below are the entry requirements for Australian citizens and residents (Domestic Students) -

Applicants must satisfy one of the following requirements:

1. Completion of a Year 12 Australian Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (for example, VCE, QCE, WACE, HSC, SACE, etc.) or equivalent; OR
2. Completion of a Certificate III level qualification (for example a TAFE Certificate), or higher, issued under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF); OR 
3. Completion of a Diploma-level qualification or higher,  issued under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF); OR 
4. Experience-based entry – for applicants who do not meet any of the requirements above. 

To be eligible for experienced-based entry, an individual must be able to demonstrate via cover letter and supporting documentation, together with participation in an interview where necessary, the following requirements: 

• An applicant must have completed or left high school two or more years prior to the application being submitted.
• The work and/or life experience cited in the application must be relevant to the particular course students are seeking to enter.
• These experiences may include formal, informal and non-formal learning, work experience relevant to the selected course, or other activities. 
• Given the fact that digital technologies are moving at such a rapid pace, the activities used as evidence to support experienced-based entry must have been completed within the past three years

Additional Requirements

1. To be eligible for enrolment in a CGSI accredited degree or diploma, applicants must be a minimum of 17 years of age at the time of commencing their studies. Please note however, that applicants may apply prior to turning 17.

2. Students applying for the Bachelor or Diploma of Digital Art will also be required to submit a portfolio of original work demonstrating skills relevant to their selected major (Concept Art or Illustration).

3. Domestic applicants from a non-English speaking background must also demonstrate English language proficiency. This may be demonstrated as follows:

• a) Applicants whose formal qualifications (secondary or post-secondary qualifications) relate to programs where English was the language of instruction and assessment automatically qualify, however, the final year of this study must have been completed no more than five (5) years immediately prior to commencement of study with CGSI.
• b) In exceptional circumstances, domestic students whose qualifications do not meet the requirements outlined in (a) above, but who have been long-term English speakers, may be exempted from the requirements outlined in c) below. However, in these cases, supporting documentation and an interview with the Executive Dean will be required.
• c) Students  from a non-English speaking background who do not meet the conditions outlined in (a) or (b)  above must  provide evidence that they meet CGSI’s IELTS (or equivalent) entry requirements (as follows): 

Applicants are required to provide documentary evidence that they have achieved the minimum requirements of an approved English Language test (as per the bullet points below) within two (2) years prior to the commencement of study. The minimum requirements for each respective test are as follows:

• IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System): Overall Band Score 6.0 with a minimum sub-score of 5.5 in writing, reading, speaking and listening.
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Internet-Based Test (iBT): 75 or better overall and no score less than 17.
• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): Overall score of 54 with no sub-score less than 46.

Below are the entry requirements for students who are not Australian citizens or residents (International students) — 

1. Successful completion of secondary school studies. These studies must be recognised by CGSI as being equivalent to the Australian Year 12 Senior Secondary Certificate of Education; OR 
2. Completion of an accredited Certificate level qualification, recognised by CGSI as equivalent to an Australian Certificate III or higher; OR 
3. Completion of a Diploma or Degree level qualification, recognised by CGSI as equivalent to an Australian Diploma or Degree; OR
4. Experience-based entry – for applicants who do not meet any of the requirements outlined above.

To be eligible for experienced-based entry, an individual must be able to demonstrate via cover letter and supporting documentation, together with participation in an interview where necessary, the following requirements: 

• An applicant must have completed or left high school two or more years prior to the application being submitted.
• The work and/or life experience cited in the application must be relevant to the particular course students are seeking to enter.
• These experiences may include formal, informal and non-formal learning, work experience relevant to the selected course, or other activities. 
• Given the fact that digital technologies are moving at such a rapid pace, the activities used as evidence to support experienced-based entry must have been completed within the past three years.

Additional Requirements

1. To be eligible for enrolment in a CGSI accredited degree or diploma, applicants must be a minimum of 17 years of age at the time of commencing their studies. Please note however, that applicants may apply prior to turning 17.
2. Students applying for the Bachelor or Diploma of Digital Art will also be required to submit a portfolio of original work demonstrating skills relevant to their selected major (Concept Art or Illustration).
3. International Applicants seeking admission to CGSI courses are also required to demonstrate and meet one of the following minimum English Language Proficiency requirements:

EITHER 

Successful completion of secondary education, or a post-secondary accredited qualification in which English was the medium of instruction and assessment, with the final year of study having been undertaken during the five (5) years immediately prior to commencement of study with CGSI; 

OR 

By demonstrating through the provision of formal documentation, that the applicant has met the minimum requirements of an approved English Language test (as per the bullet points below) within two (2) years prior to the commencement of study. The minimum requirements for each respective test are as follows:

• IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System): Overall Band Score 6.0 with a minimum sub-score of 5.5 in writing, reading, speaking and listening.
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Internet-Based Test (iBT): 75 or better overall and no score less than 17.
• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): Overall score of 54 with no sub-score less than 46.

Depending on where you live and which course you have selected, you may need to provide additional information, such as:

Australian Applicants

• One of the following government identification documents: an Australian passport, birth certificate, citizenship certificate, or permanent humanitarian visa.
• One of the following photographic identification documents: an Australian passport, driver’s license, student ID card, or a proof of age card.
• Copies of your final academic transcripts from any secondary or tertiary studies. These should indicate the units or subjects you've completed and provide proof of your graduation.

International Applicants

• A certified copy of your passport.
• Certified copies of your final academic transcripts from secondary or tertiary studies, showcasing the units or subjects attempted and proof of completion.
• Certified copy of your English language proficiency results.
  
  

Portfolio Submission

Students undergoing the Diploma or Bachelor of Digital Art will need to provide:

• A portfolio of original work demonstrating skills relevant to the selected major.

How it works

What if I am presently enrolled in a course at CG Spectrum?

• Academic transcripts
• Portfolio or evidence of coursework with a recency of completion
• Proof of attendance/completion of course or unit
• Letter of recommendation from your teacher/mentor
• Proof of recent relevant industry experience 

Yes! CG Spectrum Institute accepts international students. 

Please note, however, that all courses are taught and assessed in English. When you apply for any of our degrees or diplomas, you will need to meet CGSI's English language requirements in order to be eligible to study with us.

You can meet the English language requirements in a number of ways, depending on your circumstances, including:

• English proficiency test
• Proof of previous study in English
• Foundation study program
• Bridging program

If you require more information, please chat with our admissions team:

CONTACT ADMISSIONS

CG Spectrum Institute is registered with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA), Australia's independent national quality assurance and regulatory agency for higher education.

All CGSI courses are accredited so our students can study with confidence in the high standards of our curricula and graduate with reputable, widely recognised qualifications.

Benefits of TEQSA Accreditation include:

• Quality Assurance - The accreditation process ensures that the students receive a high standard of education and are studying at an institution committed to continuous improvement.
• Access to Government Support - Accredited institutions are eligible for government funding and financial assistance programs, breaking down financial barriers and making education more accessible
• Student Confidence - Students can have confidence in the quality of education they will receive and the value of their qualifications in the job market.
• Global Mobility - TEQSA-accredited qualifications are widely recognised (nationally and internationally), allowing students to pursue further studies or employment opportunities around the world.

Students with Australian citizenship who meet specific eligibility criteria can access FEE-HELP, a loan program provided by the Australian Government that assists in paying for higher education tuition fees. 

FEE-HELP allows eligible students to borrow money for all or part of their tuition fees and repay the loan through the tax system once their income reaches a certain threshold. 

For more information, please visit the fees and payment page on our website:

FEES & PAYMENT

We understand that financing can be a barrier to higher education. If you are a non-Australian citizen, please contact our helpful student admissions team to discuss your financing options and see how we can best help you get started on your creative learning journey! 

CONTACT ADMISSIONS

We do not offer scholarships by request. However, from time to time, we may offer scholarships and advertise these on our social channels and newsletter.

Please subscribe to our mailing list to get updates on future scholarship opportunities that may be available to you.

The only course that requires strong drawing skills is the Digital Art bachelor's degree and diploma. All other courses do not require strong drawing skills, but it is always encouraged to work on your fine arts skills.

For more information about the requirements for the Digital Art course, please see the next FAQ.

As part of the entry requirements for the Digital Art course, you must provide at least three pieces of artwork that demonstrate character/creature creations, prop or environment-type artwork. (We encourage students to avoid painting from photographs or photo manipulation.)

Students are also required to have their own digital tablets. For more information on prerequisites and computer requirements, head to the Digital Art course page:

DIGITAL ART COURSE

For all our accredited courses, you will need your own computer with a recommended minimum of 32GB RAM. For more detailed requirements for a specific course, please see the FAQ sections on our individual course pages:

   ANIMATION & VFX         DIGITAL ART         GAME DEVELOPMENT

Any student enrolling in our courses will need to have basic computer literacy (i.e. know how to use a computer and operate everyday applications such as email, Zoom, and Slack).

If you want to try out the software used as part of your course, most providers offer a free trial. Any experience with the required software is beneficial. CG Spectrum also run free regular Discovery Sessions, led by industry experts, which are a great way to get acquainted with some of the software you'll be learning:

   SEE UPCOMING EVENTS

We also have an extensive back catalogue of industry-guided tutorials on our YouTube channel.

EXPLORE YOUTUBE TUTORIALS

In terms of the industry-standard software taught, you will learn how to use the required tools and software as you progress. Specific prerequisites and requirements for each course are listed on their respective course pages:

   ANIMATION & VFX         DIGITAL ART         GAME DEVELOPMENT

For non-FEE-HELP students, we accept bank transfers and credit card payments.

At CGSI, you will get a more holistic education led by top film and game experts and academics, an accredited curriculum that is internationally recognised, and join an inspiring and supportive online community of industry experts and peers.

What to expect at CG Spectrum Institute:

• Study with more flexibility (100% online)
  
• Gain direct access to film and game artists and academics
• Join a global community of 4000+ students, grads, and industry folk
• Receive an accredited and internationally recognised education created by industry for industry
• Career support services
• Events and networking opportunities
• And much more!
  

Our bachelor's degrees and diplomas, developed by industry professionals and academics, provide students with a holistic education through four unique learning streams, which help them to build relevant technical, creative, theoretical, and practical skills, setting them up for success in the creative industries. Our four learning streams comprise:

Creative Concepts and Principles

The Creative Concepts and Principles strand introduces students to a set of theoretical concepts and frameworks underpinning the creative and technical aspects of the degree, fostering their capacity to analyse, review, and reflect.

Industry Concepts, Processes and Capabilities

Within the Industry Concepts, Processes and Capabilities strand, students will develop a broad understanding of the interpersonal and business management skills required to be successful in the creative industry, including as a freelance artist.

Technical and Creative Processes and Practices

In the Technical and Creative Processes and Practices strand, students will gain comprehensive skills in one specific major (their specialisation), building their conceptual and technical knowledge and unique creative and artistic abilities required by industry. This strand enables students to select an area of focus within the broader world of animation, visual effects, and games. Specialisations promote a higher level of creative and technical expertise and help students determine a career pathway that will lead them into the industry.

Capstone Trimester

The final Capstone trimester requires students to reflect on their learnings, appraise their body of work, and develop a high-quality professional portfolio, helping them to hit the ground running upon graduation.

As an online higher education provider, all CGSI's classes take place online. 

Online education is ideal for students who live far from a traditional animation or game design school, those who need flexibility around work and family commitments, or those who prefer to study from the comfort of their homes. (Check out the benefits of online study in the next FAQ.)

In terms of class times, these will vary and will partly depend on whether you are studying full-time or part-time, as well as what major you have chosen. Timetables are available after enrolment and closer to the time of the start of the trimester.

CG Spectrum Institute takes being an online higher education provider seriously—we ensure students stay connected with our internal team, our lecturers, and each other. 

While the convenience and flexibility of online courses are commonly acknowledged, there are some lesser-known benefits that can enhance your learning experience, including:

• Gaining diverse global perspectives
• Enhanced digital literacy
• Effective time management
• A more intimate learning environment (than a large lecture hall)
• Direct access to expertise

Read more about the benefits of online study via our Industry News and Insights page:

READ BLOG

If you are studying full-time, you will be required to do 40 hours per week, minimum. This includes your lectures, tutorials, required reading, and assessments.

This is entirely up to you. However, do keep in mind that, if studied full-time, our degrees and diplomas require at least 40 hours per week of study (including coursework, readings, lectures, and tutorials). 

If you would like to continue working while at CGSI, we do offer part-time study options. If you require more information, please chat with our admissions team:

CONTACT ADMISSIONS

This will depend partly on your chosen major and which class times you select. To see some of the experts who could be learning from directly, head to our course pages:

   ANIMATION & VFX         DIGITAL ART         GAME DEVELOPMENT

Mentors are based on availability and their level of qualifications, which must match TEQSA's requirements. Any mentor who teaches you will have a formal qualification(s) in a relevant area of expertise (at least AQF+1 qualified) on top of their years of industry experience.

CG Spectrum Institute provides students with the necessary tools and resources, including direct access to world-class industry academics and artists, to help them become the best trained, best connected, and best prepared for studio life.

Helping students find employment is very important to us. That's why several of our core subjects are dedicated to preparing students for working in the industry, including a capstone subject dedicated to building an impressive professional portfolio—a vital component of applying for jobs in the industry.

CGSI also have a dedicated career development team that hosts exclusive career-focused webinars, Q&As, artist interviews and workshops for students and alumni and is available online to answer students' career-related questions. Students can also receive one-on-one career support, CV/portfolio reviews and interview preparation. 

80% of CG Spectrum's advanced graduates have gone on to get great jobs in the industry, working on major titles like Avengers: Endgame, Blade Runner 2049, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Call of Duty, League of Legends, and the Assassin's Creed franchise.

As a CG Spectrum Institute student, you will be invited to join our exclusive online community, a lively and supportive network of peers, mentors and alumni who work in the entertainment industry.

By taking advantage of this community and the many events that we sponsor and host (most of which are online and accessible to all), you have the opportunity to meet some of the most talented and influential people in the industry. Not to mention, our lecturers and tutors are well-connected industry professionals!