Can I study a vocational course (VET/TAFE) on an Australian student visa?

Yes, you can study vocational and trade courses at TAFE and registered private RTOs (Registered Training Organisations) on an Australian student visa (subclass 500), provided the institution is registered on CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).

Types of VET qualifications available on a student visa:
- Certificate III and IV (trade qualifications in areas like construction, hospitality, automotive, IT)
- Diploma (business, early childhood education, IT, community services)
- Advanced Diploma
- Some Associate Degrees

Why study VET as an international student?
- More affordable than university: AUD 5,000–20,000 per year vs AUD 20,000–45,000 at universities
- Practical, hands-on training with direct industry connections
- Faster to complete (1–2 years for diplomas)
- Many VET courses articulate into university degrees with credit recognition

Work rights: Same as university students — 48 hours per fortnight during study, unlimited during holidays.

Post-study visa: VET graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (485) Graduate Work stream if their qualification and occupation are on the relevant skilled list. Duration is 18 months.

Important: Be very careful when choosing a private RTO. There have been issues with low-quality private providers in Australia. Stick to government TAFEs or well-established private providers. Avoid any provider that offers unrealistic guarantees of PR.

Migration pathways: Some trade occupations (electricians, plumbers, chefs, aged care workers) are highly demanded and appear on skilled occupation lists, making VET an effective migration strategy.