TAFE NSW (Technical and Further Education New South Wales) is Australia’s largest training and education provider, delivering industry-relevant skills and qualifications for over 130 years. With more than 130 campuses across NSW, it offers practical, hands-on training in a wide range of disciplines—from business and IT to hospitality, trades, and health care. TAFE NSW is government-owned and highly respected, particularly for its strong ties with employers and pathways to Australian universities. It’s a popular option for international students seeking affordable, job-ready qualifications with opportunities for further study and work in Australia.
Institution Overview
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Location: New South Wales, Australia (130+ campuses)
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Established: 1883
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Institution Type: Government-owned vocational education and training (VET) provider
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Total Students: Over 500,000 (on-campus and online)
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International Students: 3,000+
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Language of Instruction: English
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Campuses: Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, Parramatta, Albury, and more
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Notable Affiliations: ASQA, CRICOS, Pathways to Australian universities
Faculties & Course Areas
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Business & Accounting
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Hospitality, Cookery & Tourism
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Information Technology
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Early Childhood Education & Care
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Engineering & Electronics
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Building & Construction
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Health & Aged Care
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Fashion, Design & Creative Industries
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Automotive & Mechanical Trades
Intakes
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Main Intakes: February, July
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Rolling Intakes: Available monthly or quarterly for many short courses and certificates
📌 Apply at least 6 months in advance to secure your place and visa.
Admission Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate III/IV | Year 10 or 11 or equivalent | 5.5 (no band <5.0) | 46 – 59 | 42 – 49 |
| Diploma/Advanced Dip. | Year 12 or equivalent | 6.0 (no band <5.5) | 60 – 78 | 50 – 58 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Year 12 + Diploma or equivalent | 6.5 (no band <6.0) | 79+ | 58+ |
Documents Needed:
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Academic transcripts
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English test results
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Passport copy
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Statement of Purpose (SOP)
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Work experience/portfolio (for specific programs)
Top Courses for International Students
💼 Business & IT
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Diploma of Business
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Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management
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Diploma of Information Technology
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Certificate IV in Cyber Security
🍳 Hospitality & Cookery
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Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
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Diploma of Hospitality Management
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Certificate III in Patisserie
🧒 Child & Community Services
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education
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Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care)
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Community Services and Youth Work
🏗️ Trades & Construction
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Certificate III in Carpentry
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Certificate IV in Building & Construction
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Plumbing and Electrical Pre-Apprenticeships
Tuition Fees (AUD & USD Equivalent)
| Program Type | Tuition (AUD/year) | Approx. USD/year |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate/Diploma | AUD $13,000 – $17,000 | $8,700 – $11,400 |
| Advanced Diploma | AUD $17,000 – $19,000 | $11,400 – $12,800 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | AUD $20,000 – $25,000 | $13,400 – $16,800 |
Scholarships for International Students
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TAFE NSW Scholarships:
Partial tuition fee waivers for high-performing students -
Australian Government Scholarships (limited eligibility)
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University Pathway Discounts:
Students progressing to university may receive credit or reduced fees
Work & Pathway Opportunities
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Part-Time Work Rights: Up to 48 hours/fortnight
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Hands-on Training: Strong focus on real-world skills
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Pathway to Universities: Credit transfer to top Australian universities like:
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University of Sydney
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University of Wollongong
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Western Sydney University
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Charles Sturt University
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Post-Study Work Rights: Available for higher qualification holders (e.g., Diploma + Degree)
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High Employability: Industry-connected training with internship options
Why Choose TAFE NSW?
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Government-owned, high-quality vocational training
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Affordable tuition compared to universities
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Practical, career-oriented courses with high employability
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Extensive campus network across NSW
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Clear university pathways for continued study
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Welcoming, multicultural student support services
Conclusion
TAFE NSW is ideal for students seeking affordable, job-ready education in Australia with strong industry links and options to advance to university. Whether you’re interested in trades, hospitality, IT, or early childhood education, TAFE NSW offers flexible, accredited pathways tailored to your career goals.