Frequently asked questions
We have featured the answers to some of the more popular questions here on this page but please feel free to contact us if you are still unsure of anything.
Q: What is the difference between TAFE and University?
Q: What costs are involved?
Q: Can I study any course on the international courses list?
Q: Can I apply for an International Student Visa within Australia?
Q: What are the entry requirements for courses?
Q: Can international students work while studying?
Q: Are there conditions attached to the student visa?
Q: Can I study part time?
Q: Is there an application fee?
Q: Can I email my application?
Q: Where can I get an application form?
Q: Should I send the original copies of my documentation?
Q: How can I obtain a student visa?
Q: Will I have medical coverage?
Q: Where will I stay?
Q: What is the difference between TAFE and University?
TAFE courses are more vocationally-focused than university which means students are better prepared for the workplace. TAFE is also a more economical option and our courses are very flexible. Many TAFE courses provide pathways into university such as Diploma to Degrees and allow for recognition of prior learning – which can reduce the time it will take you to complete a degree and provide post-study work rights.
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Q: What costs are involved?
Tuition fees vary depending on the course you have selected so please contact us for specific tuition costs.
On top of these fees you will also need to pay for:
* Health Insurance
* A one-off application fee
* A student visa
* Accommodation costs
Q: Can I study any course on the international courses list?
The courses on our International Course List are current at the time of their publication. If the course you wish to study is no longer available we will discuss alternatives with you.
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Q: Can I apply for an International Student Visa within Australia?
Not all students can apply for a student visa whilst in Australia and are required to go offshore. DIAC offices are located in Sydney and Southport, or through the Australian embassy in your country. Please visit the DIAC website (www.immi.gov.au) or call them on 131 881 for information on applying for a student visa.
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Q: What are the entry requirements for courses?
TAFE courses require international students to meet minimum English requirements (IELTS 5.5 Academic from 2009 onwards) (http://www.studyintafe.edu.au/apply/entryrequire/index.htm) or equivalent. This is to ensure you are well-equipped for your studies. Soem courses such as the Diploma of Enrolled Nursing require a higher score for entry.
If you do not meet these requirements, you can improve your English language score by studying English at one of our language colleges. For more details about English language studies please contact us.
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Q: Can international students work while studying?
You can work up to 40 hours per fortnight on a student visa. Most TAFE teachers have good industry contacts to assist you in gaining employment while you study.
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Q: Are there conditions attached to the student visa?
Yes. All international students must study a minimum of 20 hours per week. You must also be attending and progressing academically or risk having your visa cancelled. If, for any reason, you are unable to comply with these rules, you should contact us immediately.
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Q: Can I study part time?
If you are studying as an international student on a student visa you are required to study at least 20 hours per week. However, if you are interested in studying one of our many short courses, you are able to do this on a tourist visa, provided you do not exceed your stay.
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Q: Is there an application fee?
Yes. There is a one-off application fee which you are required to pay when you receive your letter of offer.
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Q: Can I email my application?
You can email your application and supporting documents directly to us.
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Q: Where can I get an application form?
Information on how to apply is available at: http://www.detinternational.nsw.edu.au/tafe/index.html
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Q: Should I send the original copies of my documentation?
No. Please send certified copies of your documentation. However you will need to send the original copy of your application form.
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Q: How can I obtain a student visa?
Once we have accepted your application and received payment, you will be sent a letter confirming your enrolment. You will need this to apply for your student visa through the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). DIAC offices are located in Sydney and Southport, or through the Australian embassy in your country. Please visit the DIAC website www.immi.gov.au for information on applying for a student visa.
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Q: Will I have medical coverage?
You are required to pay for health insurance when you enrol. Provided you do not have a pre-existing medical condition, this will cover any medical expenses you may have in a public hospital in Australia.
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Q: Where will I stay?
Homestay accommodation is an optional service, which can be requested by students for short-term homestay accommodation for when you arrive in Australia. Other options include sourcing your own accommodation through family, local real estate agents and holiday accommodation or networking with other students to find share accommodation. At Coffs Harbour Education Campus and Lismore campuses on-site accommodation is avaialable through Southern Cross University. To request more information about on site accommodation or homestay placement and airport reception please Contact us for further details.
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