Australia offers a variety of study options for international students, with more than 1,100 institutions and 22,000 majors to choose from. Academic institutions in Australia receive good reviews in matters such as student satisfaction, employability, and the quality of life and atmosphere of the student community.
The university is the highest educational institution in Australia, and the country as a whole has 39 universities: 37 state-funded state universities, and 2 private universities. University students can take on-campus education to obtain a bachelor’s degree or major in postgraduate studies. Postgraduate majors provide certificate degrees, postgraduate diplomas, and master and doctoral programs.
For education after high school and below the university level there are two pathways: vocational education and college.
What is vocational education?
Vocational education, concentrating on practical skills and industry training ready for work. Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET, Australian Vocational Education and Training) institutions have a strong focus on vocational education. This means that the graduates can apply what they learn in the classroom directly at the workplace.
International students enroll in vocational programs in Australia to:
- increase the likelihood of them entering university
- acquire practical and work-based skills to increase their chances of getting a job
- take advantage of the many programs that are available
- enjoy the special attention made possible by small classes
- enjoy the benefits of living in Australia
Where are vocational education and training programs taught?
Vocational programs are taught at Technical and Further Education (TAFE, Technical and Advanced Education) institutes, private secondary schools and at various universities. There are many kinds of programs available – information technology, service business, arts and media, tourism and hospitality, child care / care, transportation and logistics, construction, mining, manufacturing, and rural industries. Many institutions also offer English language programs, which take four to 48 weeks.
Australia’s vocational training system is organized so that you can start studying at the Certificate level, then move on from there to higher qualifications at university, if you wish. Vocational training is also an excellent way to enhance your career or advance further from your current job. Many vocational institutions will give you credit for degree programs at universities.
Institutions that offer educational programs to international students must register with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS, Commonwealth Government Register of Institutions and Programs for Overseas Students) run by the Australian Government . This registration enables the government to ensure that the education offered to international students in Australia is of high quality.
VET qualification level
| VET Qualification | Duration |
| Certificate I | 6 months |
| Certificate II | 6 months |
| Certificate III | 6 months |
| Certificate IV | 12 months |
| Diploma | 6–12 months |
| Advanced diploma | 6–12 months |
| Vocational graduate certificate | 6 months |
| Vocational graduate diploma | 12 months |
- Certificates I to IV provides preliminary skills and training in certain fields. To enter the I-IV certificate program, students can start after completing grade X of high school.
- The diploma program prepares students to enter the world of industry, company and professional careers.
- Advanced diploma programs that provide more professional skills. Students can complete several advanced diploma programs at the university level.
- Vocational graduate certificate / diploma program is equivalent to a postgraduate program. This program provides skills related to highly professional employment.
- VET providers also offer English courses, which are about four to 48 weeks in duration.
Academic calendar
Academic calendars for vocational and university education start in late February or early March. Vocational education and universities only have 2 semesters. Exams are held at the end of each semester (June and November), with a gap of 2-4 weeks between each semester. Longer pauses occur in the summer from November / December to February. On certain occasions, you can choose a course that offers a summer program, which allows you to take the third semester of the school year.
What is the difference between VET and higher education programs?
The VET program is more focused on providing practical and work-oriented work skills, while universities or higher education is more focused on providing theory-based knowledge and professional career paths. Most VET programs are part of a national training package that is regularly updated and adapted to the relevant industry. After completing VET programs, students can transfer credit to the same program in different study places, usually for higher education.
Average tuition fee
Many institutions offer VET programs with affordable tuition fee. This is one of the reasons why students prefer to take VET in Australia. VET tuition fees range from AUD $ 4000 to $ 22,000 per year. Please note that tuition fees can vary greatly depending on the subject matter, institution and place chosen. Always ask the education provider.
Entry requirements
To enter the VET system students usually need to achieve a level of education equivalent to Class (in Australia called Year, Year 10, 11 or 12 (completed at ages 15-18). Some programs or courses may have the requirement to pass a course or work experience. You may have to show your work portfolio (sample works) to enter into an art or design program. You need to check with your educational institution about other entry requirements, English language requirements, information about fees, and the date the program starts.
After graduation
After completing vocational training in Australia, students are awarded a Certificate or Diploma. Students who complete vocational education can choose to enroll in university education programs or find employment.
Education qualifications from Australia are highly valued throughout the world. Combined with a strong Australian economy and low unemployment rates, Australia offers brilliant career opportunities for students who have graduated.
Many students continue their study in Australian University and take degree programs. International students now have the opportunity to spend more time in Australia after completing their studies. If you have completed a degree program, you may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Stream of the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). This allows you to live in Australia and gain experience working in your field.
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