FAQs for international students

Please refer to the How to Apply page on the international website.

After you have applied

• we will email you the outcome of your application and the next steps to take
• it is important to know that our response time is 24 to 48 hours.

Depending on the course and campus, your application process may include:

• an assessment for course entry requirement (Check your course details for more information)
• additional entry requirements such as a portfolio or written task eg. a short essay
• confirmation of status via a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Assessment attendance at an interview.

Learn more:
Apply and enrol
TAFE NSW international courses

Regardless of your level of study (VET or TAFE NSW Degree), if you change your mind part way through your course, you need to talk to your teachers about your options.

Please note as per your international student visa, you may be required to complete 6 months in your principal course before changing your study plans.

Alternatively, you can submit an enquiry and our team will be happy to help you find the course that leads to the career you want.

Learn more:
Study locations

Yes, you can. TAFE NSW offers practical, innovative higher education programs. Our courses are developed in consultation with industry and academic experts. They’re designed to meet employer needs to give our national and international graduates an edge in the market.

What sets TAFE NSW apart?

• Student satisfaction—we'll help you define your goals and show you how to get there.
• Gain experience—built-in internships and work placements.
• Tailored learning —small class sizes.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)—get recognition for previous related studies or experience and fast-track your degree.
• Make connections—networking and industry connections.
• Study on your terms—some courses allow you to study online and on-campus.

Contact our team to discuss your study and career goals. We'll explore your higher education options with a TAFE NSW degree.

Learn more:
Applying for a degree
TAFE NSW Degrees
Where can I find the entry requirements for my course?

If university is your goal, we offer a number of ways to get there:

Apply to study a TAFE NSW Degree
Did you know that TAFE NSW offers ground-breaking, industry-ready degrees for international students? We have a range of practical, innovative higher education programs and are connected with over 25,000 employers statewide. Read more at TAFE Degrees.

University pathways
We can assist you in meeting the academic requirements necessary to get into a degree program at TAFE NSW. We also offer programs with several partner universities.

Credit transfer pathways
Use credit from your TAFE NSW qualification toward a TAFE NSW degree program or university course. Credit transfers can also reduce the time you need to study at university and may also reduce the cost of your degree. Remember, credit entry varies. Check with your selected university or TAFE NSW Degree course for all entry and credit information.

Learn more:
TAFE NSW Degrees
University pathways
Credit transfers

RPL stands for Recognition of Prior Learning and it means that your previous skills, knowledge or workplace experience (in a related area) may be recognised by TAFE NSW toward early completion of your study.

Previous experience might include:

• positions/job roles
• volunteer positions
• life experience.

Speak to your teacher, course coordinator or customer service team to find out if you are eligible.

Learn more:
Recognition and credit transfer options
Study locations

Applying for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

If you would like to apply for Recognition at TAFE (also known as RPL or credit transfer), you will need to take the following steps:

1. Talk to your teacher or course coordinator about your previous study or experience (they will give you the appropriate form to complete).
2. Read, complete and submit the appropriate paperwork.
3. Provide all available evidence to support your claim for recognition.

Your application will be assessed and if awarded, your study timetable and training plan will be adjusted which may result in a reduction in course fees.

Learn more:
Recognition and credit transfers
Courses
TAFE NSW Degrees
Study locations

If you already have knowledge, experience and/or qualifications related to the course you want to study, you may be awarded credit. This means you may be able to achieve your qualification faster and there may be a reduction in your fees:

• Credit transfer—this allows you to receive credit for the study that you have successfully completed.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)—RPL recognises your other skills and workplace experience, and where these meet the requirements of the course.

Read about your RPL and credit transfer options.

RPL for TAFE NSW Degree qualifications

RPL is also available for TAFE NSW Degree qualifications, such as bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees and higher education diplomas.

Contact the Course Coordinator directly to find out how RPL may apply to your previous study and/or workplace experience.

Learn more:
RPL and credit transfer

As an international student at TAFE NSW, you are required to study full-time in a CRICOS registered course. This means you will need to enrol in a full-time course or a package course that is offered full-time.

Learn more:
Courses
Study locations

Course entry requirements are located on the specific course information page.

Requirements may include:

• the minimum qualifications
• English language requirements
• knowledge, skills and experience.

If you have questions about the requirements for your course, contact us.

Learn more:
Course search
Study locations

In the first week of your course, you will be given an outline of all of your assessments and unit outcomes. This outline will provide information about the type of assessments that are required to successfully complete your studies.

Your assessments will vary depending on your course and units. Some assessment types include:

• presentations
• written assessments
• simulated workplace projects
• research tasks, and more.

If you have any questions about your assessments, speak to your teacher or course coordinator.

We are here to help you get started.

For many courses, you can enrol from the comfort of your own home by following these steps.

In order to apply and enrol in a TAFE NSW course there are a number of steps to complete.

1. Select your course and submit your application for entry.
2. If your course application is successful, you will be issued a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This will be needed for your visa application.
3. Apply for your Student visa and complete all the necessary requirements.
4. Once your Student visa is granted you can to travel to Australia. Your official enrolment will take place after you arrive and before your course starts. Once enrolled you will need to attend your orientation session, then you can commence your studies.

Please note that some TAFE NSW courses require additional entry requirements such as a portfolio or attending an online interview or audition. This information will be detailed on the course information page.

Enrolment periods are different depending on the course, level of study and campus location.

If you are a VET or ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) student, you should check the course page and key dates. You can also contact us about the requirements and timing for your application/enrolment. Key dates can be found here: Academic calendar for VET and ELICOS

For TAFE NSW Degree students: Application closing and TAFE NSW Degree enrolment dates are found in the Academic Calendar.

Learn more:
Enrol

After you have applied we will let you know the outcome of your application via email. The email will also detail the next steps to take.

Please be aware that our response time is between 24 to 48 hours.

Learn more:
Applying and enrolling

Yes. You must attend a compulsory orientation session after enrolling in any course with TAFE NSW.

If you need further support, our International Customer Experience Coordinators are here to help

A TAFE Degree census date is the last day that you can withdraw from a TAFE NSW Degree subject or course. Please check your the Academic Calendar for the census dates that apply.

Learn more:
Courses
Key dates

For vocational students, the Academic Calendar lists the important dates you need to stay organised while you're studying. It includes:

• term dates
• student vacations
• public holidays.

If you are studying a TAFE NSW Degree, you'll need to refer to the Academic Calendar for semester and relevant census dates.

What is a USI?

A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is a secure link, made up of 10 letters and numbers, that gives you access to your student account online. It holds your current and past VET training records, including your results. It is compulsory for all students studying nationally recognised courses, to have a USI.

The USI and the USI Registry are managed by the Commonwealth Government.

Why do I need a USI?

You need a USI to enrol into any VET course, including a TAFE NSW course. A USI also allows you to access your results whenever you need them, and to view records from other training providers, dating back to 2015.

You can contact the USI Registry directly or contact us and we'll help you get set-up.

How do I update my details in my USI account?

It is important to keep your Unique Student Identifier (USI) account up to date as it holds your study records from TAFE NSW and other VET training organisations. Your TAFE NSW details should match those in your USI account. Using your USI, you can find recent and older records relating to your study within Australia, from January 2015.

To update your USI account and match these with your TAFE NSW details:

1. Log in.
2. Select 'Update Personal/Contact Details'
3. Proof of ID may be required
4. To update your TAFE NSW details, log in to your Student Portal or contact us.

Learn more:
Australian Government USI
Applying and enrolling

This is different for every course. Once enrolled, you will receive instructions from your course coordinator about what you need to do or bring. As well as your first class, we may also have information about what to bring to your orientation

Contact us if you need any further assistance.

Learn more:
International Customer Experience Co-ordinators

To connect with TAFE NSW International submit an enquiry or call us on +61 2 9217 4106

We are here to help you get the answers you need regarding:

• courses
• application and enrolment
• enrolling with a visa
• fees and payment
• support services including customer experience support
• student events
• other general queries.

Learn more:
Contact us
International Customer Experience Co-ordinators

When you study at TAFE NSW as an international student, you will have a one-off registration fee and your tuition fees. Your letter of offer from TAFE NSW will explain the following fees related to your course:

• A registration fee of A$100 (non-refundable)
• A tuition fee – the total course fee can range from:
  • A$4,395 to A$15,450 per semester for vocational courses
  • A$6,680 to A$11,500 per semester for TAFE NSW Degree courses

The tuition fee listed on course pages is the total fee. Payment is required each semester. To calculate the semester fee for a course, divide the total course fee by the course duration and then again by two.

(total course fee ÷ course duration) ÷ 2 = semester fee

Course fees include:

• tuition
• orientation program
• additional study skills tuition
• use of multimedia libraries
• computers
• other campus facilities, and
• assistance from student advisers and counsellors.

Course fees do not include:

• the cost of textbooks
• stationery
• uniforms
• accommodation
• meals
• health insurance cover, and
• transport.

For costs related to specific courses, refer to the other fees section below and individual course pages.

Does TAFE NSW offer payment plans?
Once you have started your course, you may be eligible to pay for your course fees in instalments from your next semester. This applies where there are compassionate and compelling circumstances. This is subject to approval by TAFE NSW.

Learn more:
Contact your International Customer Experience Coordinator

Talk to us. We want to understand your experience and give you the support you need to get back on track. Our teaching and customer service teams will help you to:

• access assessment and counselling support
• understand your education and training needs for the career you want
• transfer to an alternative course (if possible)
• apply for any fee refunds you may be eligible for.

The sooner we know how we can help, the better. Contact us today.

Learn more:
Student services
Career counselling

If you are experiencing financial hardship, assistance may be available to help you with instalment payment plans.

Contact us via our online enquiry form or if you would like to discuss your circumstances reach out to your International Customer Experience Coordinator.

There are a number of circumstances where a refund may be applied.

Refunds are dependent upon your:

• course type
• census date
• individual circumstances
• payment method
• attendance.

International students will need to speak directly to their International Customer Experience Coordinator. Alternatively, use our Contact us form so we understand the unique requirements of your refund application.

Learn more:
Refunds and withdrawals
2024 International Student Guide

Scholarship opportunities exist to make your studies a reality.

A scholarship can provide you with financial assistance to help you meet all, or part of your course fees and expenses, learning materials or study costs.

Scholarships are available from a variety of sources including NSW Government through funding initiatives, as well as other organisations.

Find out more about the scholarships available to TAFE NSW students across a range of study areas.

Learn more:
TAFE NSW International Scholarships
NSW Gov International Student Scholarships

Recognition at TAFE NSW is assessed in two categories:

• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
• Credit transfers

This means that your previous study, skills, knowledge or workplace experience may be recognised by TAFE NSW.

Speak to your teacher or contact us to find out how recognition might relate to your course choice and related fees. It is important to know that you will need to provide evidence to support your application.

The first step to withdrawing

As an international student, you should speak directly to your international coordinator or international student services team if you are considering withdrawing because:

• the course is too hard
• the course is not what you expected or
• your circumstances have changed.

The second step to withdrawing

If withdrawal is right for you, tell your teacher. You must then read, complete and submit the form that applies to your qualification.

If you need to change your study path, contact us as soon as possible to avoid academic and financial penalty.

We welcome all international students to study at TAFE NSW, as a step toward an exciting global career. Our international student services are designed to help you succeed in a new country, study environment and culture.

Dedicated international student support includes:

• an International Student Support Coordinator
• the TAFE NSW orientation program
• counselling for academic, career and/or other issues
• accommodation support
• job preparation and search
• childcare (where available).

Learn more:
International student support
Contact the international support team

Every student has individual needs. We provide equal access to study for students living with disability, injury or a long term medical condition. We offer:

• qualified disability consultants who will support you through your course
• specialist services in the classroom, tutorial support and reasonable adjustment of the learning facility
• tailored study plans to help you succeed.

Contact us to talk about the options available to you.

Learn more:
Disability services

Finding care for your young children while you're studying, can be challenging.

TAFE NSW has Early Childhood Education and Care Centres located at 15 campuses across NSW. These are open to students, staff and the broader community.

Contact us about childcare options at your campus.

How much does childcare cost?

If your TAFE NSW campus has an Early Childhood Education and Care Centre, contact us directly and we will help you understand the costs involved.

Learn more:
Childcare services

Do you need help with career and study, other concerns? Our counselling team can help you with career direction, course choice and any barriers standing in the way of your success. They can also explore matters such as anxiety, health, relationships, stress, substance abuse and anything else that may be worrying you.

It is important to realise that you are not alone. No issue is too small or too large to talk to our qualified TAFE NSW counsellor about. Contact the customer service team at your campus to book an appointment.

If you need help right now and a TAFE NSW counsellor isn't available contact your local medical service or hospital or call LifeLine on 13 11 14.

I have problems or concerns. Can I talk to someone?

Yes, of course! It is important to realise that you're not alone. TAFE NSW has qualified counsellors who can help. The TAFE NSW Counselling Service is a free service for all new and prospective students. Our team of qualified counsellors can assist you with:

• stress and/or anxiety
• home-life and family difficulties
• financial or legal problems
• physical or mental health concerns
• drug and/or alcohol use, or gambling problems
• health and sexuality
• problems or concerns that may be worrying you
• workload and time management
• exams and assessments
• work issues.

Make an appointment today.

How to make an appointment

You can make an appointment through your customer service team at your local campus.

Learn more:
Counselling and career development services

All students require a TAFE NSW card. To get yours, follow the steps below:

1. Finalise your enrolment at orientation.
2. Take your enrolment form and supporting documents to the customer service centre at your campus.
3. Ask for your TAFE NSW card.
4. Have your photo taken.

Your card will remain valid while you are enrolled and can be used on any TAFE NSW campus.

Why you need a TAFE NSW card

A TAFE NSW card is a compulsory form of identification (ID) for all TAFE NSW enrolled students. Your card will contain your photograph, name and student number, and is used to:

• record membership of the library and student association
• give you access to parking, photocopying facilities and secure areas such as computer labs
• sit examinations.

Learn more:
Study locations 
2020 International Student Guide

I have an old TAFE NSW card from previous study. Can I use it?

Speak to your local customer service team about your existing card. They will let you know if you can continue to use it or if a replacement card is required.

In many instances, it's fine to keep the card you have.

How to replace a TAFE NSW card

If your TAFE NSW card is lost, damaged or stolen, visit your local customer service centre to have a new card issued. If you are studying fully online, contact us about your options.

The fee for a replacement TAFE NSW cards is $20.

During the enrolment process, you will receive a username and password which gives you access to the TAFE NSW Student Portal. It is important to keep your details up to date in the portal, so that we can contact you about your course, or in case of an emergency.

To update your details in the Student Portal:

1. [Log in](https://my.tafensw.edu.au/
2. Click 'My Details'
3. Add or change your information
4. Save

If you cannot update your details for any reason, contact us and we will show you how.

Important notes

• To change your name or date of birth, you will need to provide evidence to your local customer service team.
• Your student details you have in the portal must match the details you have on the USI Registry. Make sure to update both records when making changes.

TAFE NSW can help international students arrange homestay accommodation for a small fee. There are several different options available for accommodation.

To learn more contact our [international support services team](https://www.tafensw.edu.au/international/enrol/support-services.

Download more information: Homestay providers list

A number of TAFE NSW campuses offer parking for students. Depending on the campus, there may be a fee.

Talk to your local customer service team about the parking options available.

Learn more:
Study locations

In general, international students are not entitled to travel concessions. International students are only entitled to concession fares when their study is fully funded by specific Australian Government scholarships.

Concession entitlements cover NSW TrainLink Regional services only. You may otherwise be able to access discounted Opal tickets or MyMulti discounted tickets if you meet certain eligibilities.

Visit International student travel discount on the Transport for NSW website for more information.

At many campuses, student events are planned and run by your student association. Events are a simple way to meet your community and make friends with people from other study areas. Plus, it's fun!

The types of events include:

• BBQs
• music performances
• day trips to explore the area
• group dinners
• fundraisers
• dedications to well-known commemorative days
• dedicated international student support events.

Some events are free for students, while others are at a cost.

Find out if your campus has a student association.

A student association is a not-for-profit and non-political organisation that is dedicated to making campus life fun and engaging for the student community. Not all campuses have a student association.

Check with your local customer service team to ask what is available at your location. Joining a student association is a great way to immerse yourself in student life and take your place in the community. Membership normally costs $20, however most international students will receive automatic membership.

Student association membership

Members receive many benefits, including:

• discounted textbooks
• discounted movie tickets
• discounted parking (where available)
• discounted gym memberships
• BBQs and social events
• spaces you can go, to relax.

Check your eligibility with your international student services support team at your campus. What are you waiting for? Join today!

Learn more:
Student associations

TAFE NSW offers a statewide library network that gives you access to the latest digital and print resources. Plus, our librarians can help you learn the research skills you need for study. Our online library is open 24/7. Our Library Network Catalogue gives all TAFE NSW staff and students access to a range of trusted digital texts and databases from the comfort of their own home. It is important to know that access to some online resources will require a TAFE NSW username and password.

Library opening hours differ at each TAFE NSW campus and often change during semester breaks. Check your local TAFE NSW library for library facility hours.

Learn more:
Libraries
Library network catalogue

If we do something well, we’d love to hear! The more we learn about great student experiences, the better we can become. To pass on your message, simply email intadmissions@tafensw.edu.au and we will share the good news with everyone involved.

If something has gone wrong, it’s important to talk to us as soon as possible. If you can, tell your teacher about the matter first. Your teacher can help you explore both the issue and resolution. Or, you are welcome to complete our online feedback form or contact us directly. Complaints are treated in confidence, with respect for all parties involved, and we are careful to follow a formal process. At TAFE NSW, we want you to enjoy studying in an innovative and safe learning environment. We value your honest feedback and will work with you to resolve any concern that has arisen. Our goal is to fix the issue, so you can stay focused on your study and career goals.

Learn more:
Complaints and feedback

When you enrol, we ask permission to provide your student details to specific agencies, but only in certain circumstances. This is a condition of your enrolment. TAFE NSW will not release your private details or results to any other person or organisation unless:

• you provide written consent
• the records are subpoenaed
• it is a legislative requirement.

Your records are safe with us.

There are a number of ways you can receive your course certificate once you have successfully completed your course. These include:

• collecting it yourself from the campus where you studied. Tell us if you would like someone else to collect it on your behalf
• receiving your course certificate by post. Talk to your local customer service team about our 'Authority to Post' option
• receiving your course certificate at graduation. You'll need to check your local graduation dates.

If you attend a graduation ceremony you will receive your course certificate at the event, unless you have arranged to pick it up before the ceremony.

Talk to your teacher if you have any questions about the details on your testamur or transcript.

• Learn some Australian slang and colloquialisms. Aussies love to shorten words and use slang phrases in casual conversation. Getting familiar with common slang like ‘arvo’ (afternoon), ‘barbie’ (barbecue), ‘mate’ (friend), etc, will help you better understand and connect with locals. However, be mindful when using slang in more formal settings as it may not be appropriate.

• Get involved in campus clubs, events and activities. Joining interest-based clubs or volunteer groups is a great way to meet new people and immerse yourself in the culture. Check out cultural clubs, sports teams or community service organisations. Your International Customer Experience Coordinators are here to support you settling in. Check out our support services page for a list of services and contact details for our Customer Experience Coordinators.

• Be open to making friends and embracing an active, outdoor lifestyle. Australians love sports, beaches, hiking and spending time outdoors. Get involved in these activities to experience the benefits of this part of Australian culture and to explore what our beautiful surroundings have to offer.

• Learn about cultural diversity. While the Anglo-Australian culture is prominent, Australia is a rich multicultural nation. Be respectful and open to learning about the cultures of Indigenous Australians, and about other ethnic communities.

The key is to keep an open mind, get involved, make an effort and embrace the laidback, outdoor lifestyle. With time and patience, you'll be right at home with our unique Australian culture.

Here are the steps to set up a bank account as an international student in Australia:

1. Research and choose a bank—major banks like Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, ANZ and NAB offer student accounts with low/no fees.
2. Gather required documents—you'll need your passport, student visa, Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), and proof of your Australian residential address.
3. Apply online or in-person—most banks allow you to open an account online before arriving, or you can visit a branch once you are in Australia.
4. Activate the account—once approved, you'll need to visit a branch to activate the account and collect your debit card by showing your identification.
5. Set up internet/mobile banking—enable online banking access and download the mobile app for daily banking convenience.

Here are the steps to set up an Australian phone number as an international student:

1. Choose a provider—the major providers are Telstra, Optus and Vodafone. Smaller providers include Boost, Amaysim and Aldi Mobile. These providers may have cheaper options.
2. Get a SIM card—buy a prepaid SIM from most supermarkets or visit your provider's retail store to buy SIM with a postpaid plan.
3. Activate your SIM with your ID—you'll need to show your passport and provide an Australian residential address to activate the SIM.
4. Choose a plan—for prepaid, pick a recharge pack with calls/data. For postpaid, select a plan based on your usage needs.
5. Top up credit (prepaid) or pay bills (postpaid) to start using your Australian mobile number.

Take these steps:

1. Check the email that you received when you enrolled
2. Confirm that your login details are correct
3. Go to the Student Portal homepage to log in.

If you still can’t log in you will need to reset your password. To do this:

1. Go to the Student Portal homepage
2. Click 'Forgot your password?' on the Student Portal
3. Follow the steps to reset.

If you still can't log in to the Student Portal, contact us and we'll help.