TAFE courses

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Gain career-relevant skills

TAFE graduates are ready to step straight into the workforce. It's often a cheaper, quicker way to gain career-relevant skills and nationally-recognised qualifications.

What is TAFE?

TAFE is the public Vocational Education and Training (VET) system in Australia. TAFE institutions are administrated by the government in each state and offer courses that provide practical skills for jobs in a wide range of industries.

You can also complete a vocational course at a private college or registered training organisation (RTO). Whether you complete your course at a TAFE institution or an RTO, the courses are accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), to ensure national standards are met.

TAFE and VET institutions offer a range of qualifications that provide different levels of skills.

A TAFE-level course may be cheaper and faster to complete than other tertiary study options, such as a University degree.

Read more about what you need to know about choosing a TAFE course.

What’s the difference between TAFE and university?

Both TAFE (or VET) institutions and universities provide tertiary education. However, TAFE courses generally provide specific skills for a particular job or industry. University courses often involve more theory content, research, and independent learning.

You rarely need an ATAR to get into TAFE. Depending on your chosen career, gaining a TAFE qualification may be faster and cheaper than studying at university.

Browse TAFE courses by study type

Can I study a TAFE course online?

Many TAFE and VET courses are offered online, so you can study when and where it suits you. When you study online, you achieve the same qualification as someone studying on campus.

Depending on the course, you may be required to complete a work placement or practical component in addition to your online coursework.

Learn more about what’s involved in online study.

What is Free TAFE?

Some states (such as Victoria) have schemes where the government will help you with the cost of your training by covering tuition fees for priority courses. Free TAFE courses allows eligible students to study a course in an industry where there is a demand for skilled workers.