Are you an international student looking to study in Australia? Technical and Further Education or TAFE courses in Australia are one of the most popular pathways for gaining practical skills and a recognised qualification. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about TAFE courses for international students, including their benefits, types, costs, eligibility, visa options, and top institutions.
What is TAFE?
TAFE stands for Technical and Further Education. These institutions are government-funded and offer vocational education and training (VET) designed to give students real-world, job-ready skills.
TAFE courses are part of Australia’s Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), meaning the qualifications are nationally recognised and can lead to further education opportunities or straight into employment.
Why Choose TAFE Courses in Australia?
Here are some key reasons international students choose TAFE:
- ✅ Industry-focused and practical training
- ✅ Affordable course fees compared to universities
- ✅ Wide range of study areas
- ✅ Pathway to higher education or skilled work visas
- ✅ Modern facilities and experienced instructors
TAFE courses are designed in collaboration with industry experts, making them highly relevant to today’s job market.
Types of TAFE Courses Available
TAFE offers various levels of qualifications depending on your academic and career goals:
| Qualification | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate I–IV | 6 months to 1 year | Basic to advanced skills in specific industries |
| Diploma | 1 to 2 years | Prepares students for industry roles or university credit |
| Advanced Diploma | 1.5 to 2.5 years | Deeper knowledge and specialised skills |
| Vocational Graduate Certificate/Diploma | 6 months to 1 year | Graduate-level qualifications in vocational fields |
| English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) | Varies | English training for students before starting academic courses |
Popular TAFE Study Areas for International Students
International students can choose from a wide variety of popular courses across different industries:
- Business and Management
- Information Technology (IT)
- Hospitality and Cookery
- Aged Care and Community Services
- Childcare and Education Support
- Automotive Engineering
- Nursing and Health Sciences
- Building and Construction
- Graphic Design and Media
Entry Requirements for International Students
To enrol in a TAFE course, international students generally need to meet the following requirements:
- Academic qualifications: Completion of Year 10, 11, or 12 depending on the course level.
- English proficiency: Most providers accept IELTS (overall band score of 5.5 or higher) or equivalent tests such as TOEFL or PTE.
- Visa: A valid Student Visa (Subclass 500) is required to study in Australia.
👉 More information on student visa requirements is available on the official Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
Course Fees and Costs
TAFE is generally more affordable than university. On average, course fees may range as follows:
| Course Level | Estimated Tuition Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Certificate II–IV | $6,000 – $12,000 per year |
| Diplomas | $10,000 – $17,000 per year |
| Advanced Diplomas | $12,000 – $20,000 per year |
| ELICOS | $300 – $450 per week |
Note: Fees vary depending on the institution, course, and location. Other costs such as accommodation, learning materials, and living expenses are extra.
Top TAFE Providers in Australia for International Students
Here are the leading TAFE institutions across different Australian states:
| Institute | State | Website |
|---|---|---|
| TAFE NSW | New South Wales | www.tafensw.edu.au |
| TAFE Queensland | Queensland | tafeqld.edu.au |
| Box Hill Institute | Victoria | boxhill.edu.au |
| South Metropolitan TAFE | Western Australia | smtafe.wa.edu.au |
| TAFE SA | South Australia | tafesa.edu.au |
| TasTAFE | Tasmania | tastafe.tas.edu.au |
| Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) | Australian Capital Territory | cit.edu.au |
| Charles Darwin University (TAFE sector) | Northern Territory | cdu.edu.au |
These institutions offer a wide variety of courses for international students and have excellent support services including student mentorship, career counselling, and English support.
Pathways to University
A major benefit of TAFE is that many Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses provide credit transfer pathways to universities. This can help you save time and costs by completing a portion of your degree through TAFE.
For example, after completing a Diploma of Business at TAFE, you may gain direct entry into the second year of a Bachelor of Business at a university like the University of Sydney or Deakin University.
Each university and TAFE provider has its own credit transfer policies. Always check with your TAFE and preferred university in advance.
Can International Students Work While Studying TAFE?
Yes. Under the Student Visa (Subclass 500), international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during official study breaks.
Learn more about work rights for international students on the Australian Government Study Australia website.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for a TAFE course in Australia as an international student:
- Choose a TAFE provider and course.
- Check entry requirements.
- Prepare and submit your application online with certified documents.
- Receive a ‘Letter of Offer’ if accepted.
- Accept the offer and receive Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- Apply for a Student Visa Subclass 500.
- Arrange travel and accommodation.
Final Thoughts
TAFE courses in Australia are a valuable option for international students seeking affordable, hands-on training with strong career outcomes. Whether you’re preparing for a job, looking to launch a career in a new field, or planning to study further at university, TAFE is an excellent stepping stone.
For the latest and most accurate information, always refer to:
- Study Australia – Official Government Website for International Students
- Department of Education – VET Qualifications
- Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA)
📝 TIP: Start early, compare courses, and reach out to TAFE international support teams for personalised advice.
If you’re planning your next step towards studying in Australia, TAFE could be your ideal choice!
Ready to apply? Explore Australia’s top TAFE programs today and take the first step towards a successful international career.