Trade courses for international students
Trade courses in Australia
The way domestic students and international students learn a trade in Australia is different. The table below details the difference in modes of learning. Irrespective of these differences, both international and domestic students will obtain the same Australian recognised qualification.
Australian Students
An apprenticeship involves learning a skilled trade under a qualified tradesperson. In Australia, most trade-based apprenticeships take 4 years to obtain the Cert III in your trade. Foreigners cannot work a full 4-year apprenticeship in Australia. As you cannot obtain a work visa to do so.
Generally, during the apprenticeship, you will work on-site under your supervisor, as well as off-site with an education provider for a small amount of time.
Length
Learning Method
Qualification Obtained
Training location
International Students
International students can study a 1 or 2-year trade course at an education provider and receive the same qualification as an Australians who undertakes a 4-year apprenticeship. For example, an international student who goes to Tafe QLD and studies the Cert III in Carpentry for 2 years will receive the same qualification as an Australian who does an apprenticeship for 4 years. Both will hold the same certification.
The main difference is that for the majority of the time, international students learn their trade in a class or workshop setting. They are continuously learning new skills and also have vocational placement with an Australian employer.
A Vocational Placement is required for most trade courses, and generally involves 360 hours of experience on a real-life worksite. This sees student acquiring practical, hands on training to compliment their class studies.
Length
It takes 1 or 2 years to complete
Learning Method
Majority in-class study and practice 360 hours of vocational placements on site
Qualification Obtained
Training location
Studying a Trade in Australia
This video discusses some of the most common questions we are asked about learning a trade in Australia.
Trade courses to study
Here’s a list of course you can study either under apprenticeship or through international study.
Frequently Asked Questions
In case you don’t find an answer to your question, feel free to consult with one of our agents.
Can I do a trade apprenticeship in Australia?
International students can’t do apprenticeships in Australia. Instead, they can study a vocational course to become qualified in a trade. The course combines workshop and vocational learning. Check this page for more info.
Can I work while studying a trade?
On a student visa you’ll be permitted to work 40 hours per fortnight during class times. During any holiday periods there’s no restrictions on how many hours you can work. If your partner is a dependent on your visa, they’ll be able to work 40 hours per fortnight at all times
Do I need to pay for the course in full?
All of the courses are available on payment plans, so you’ll pay for your tuition every month, term or semester.
How much is the course deposit?
The deposit payment varies from education providers. Generally speaking, students can expect to pay anywhere between $1000 – $7000 AUD for their deposit.
Where can I study a trade?
International students can study trades in every state in Australia. There are courses available in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Perth, Adelaide, Darwin, Bundaberg and many more locations
How long does it take to complete a trade qualification?
Trade qualifications generally take 24 months to complete in Australia.
What is vocational placement?
Vocational Placement is a requirement for most trade courses, and students generally undertake 360 hours throughout the duration of their course. A student is placed in a real-life work site and receives practical training and experience on site. This video we made explains vocational placement in more detail
Are trade workers in high demand in Australia?
Yes, there are many trades that are in high demand in Australia. There are a number of trades on Australia Medium and Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL)
Can studying a trade in Australia lead to permanent residency?
Studying the right trade or vocational course can significantly increase your chances of obtaining an Australian work visa
How much does it cost to study a trade in Australia?
Prices vary depending on the course, however the average price per year is between $7,000 – $14,000.
How many days a week will I be studying a trade course in Australia?
Timetables vary depending on the trade and education provider, however most courses are 15-20 hours per week, over 2-3 days.
Will these qualifications be recognised in my home country?
These qualifications are part of the Australian Qualification Framework. Most countries specifically European or North American countries accept qualifications issued by Australia. So yes, generally speaking, the qualifications will be accepted and allow you to work in your home country. Please note, we would always you check specifically with your home country.
What visa do I need to study a trade in Australia?
The most common visa for international students studying trades in Australia is the Subclass 500 – Student Visa
Can I include my partner and children on my student visa?
Yes, it is possible to add your partner to your student visa as a dependent, providing you meet the de facto requirement. More info on that here. Children can also be included as dependents
How many holidays will I have while studying a trade course in Australia?
The holidays vary depending on the education provider. Generally speaking, students can expect to have roughly 10 – 15 weeks of holiday per year.
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In case of questions, feel free to reach out to one of our experienced Registered Migration Agents.
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