WHY STUDY AT TAFE?

Studying Techincal and Further Education (TAFE)

A cheaper alternative to studying at an Australian university is available via the Technical and Further Education (TAFE) system.

The vocational education and training sector (TAFE and registered private providers) is part of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) - unified system of 13 national qualifications in schools, TAFE's and universities. TAFE's strengths include being part of a quality-assured, national system.

TAFE has Certificates (I, II, III, IV), Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses, all of which are fully nationally accredited, and may allow you to receive a positive skills assessment in a Skilled Occupation for the purposes of skilled migration to Australia.

TAFE qualifications are industry-based, designed in a sequence, and provide for training to be conducted in the workplace. Also, you can be assessed for the skills and knowledge you may already have gained informally in previous work via recognition of prior learning (RPL). You can approach your prospective TAFE institute and ask for a RPL assessment. This can result in a full qualification or a Statement of Attainment for partial completion.

TAFE courses offer pathways and links between qualifications which can provide flexibility and recognition when combining vocational training and academic study. You can begin your studies at TAFE, obtain credit for the work you've done and then apply for university admission.

TAFE courses are designed for all individuals seeking industry-relevant, leading-edge skills that can help them get into the workplace faster, upgrade existing skills, or prepare for further study.

Because courses are developed cooperatively with industry bodies, TAFE courses meet current business needs. Courses cover diverse areas such as business, management, information technology, e-commerce, arts, media, tourism, hospitality, engineering, construction, sport, recreation and trades.

With more variety, cheaper courses, more campuses, and more delivery options, TAFE training offers students great possibilities.

In summary TAFE provides an accessible, affordable and flexible solution to your training and further education needs.

Mid-Year Intake

Many TAFE Institutes take students into courses starting after February, and throughout the year, particularly at mid-year.

Studying at TAFE

TAFE study usually takes place in small classes, typically 20 students, rather than in large lectures. Students are given individual attention.

TAFE students are expected to organise their timetables and study programs. Classes are held both daytime and evening, and your class may contain a range of adult students of various ages and backgrounds, some studying full time and others part time.

TAFE Institutes offer personal and career counselling services. Institutes have cafeterias, study facilities, computers and libraries. Most TAFE Institutes have a recreation officer who helps organise leisure activities, hobby and sporting clubs, and on-campus entertainment.

If you would like advice and information on how to obtain a student visa to allow you to study a TAFE course please complete our Online Consultation.

When asked "What level of study would you like to undertake?" please select one of the following options "Certificates (I, II, III, IV), Diploma or Advanced Diploma.