Make the switch to TAFE NSW

There are lots of things to consider when deciding between TAFE NSW and university, including your preferred learning style and what career you’d like to pursue. In the past, university was the only option to complete a degree, however, TAFE NSW now offers associate and bachelor degrees for certain professions. Pathways into undergraduate study are available should you decide to return to a bachelor's degree in the future.

TAFE NSW prepares you for work with hands-on, affordable study options in a broad range of industries including IT, Business and Marketing, Screen, Media and Games, Environment and Sustainability, Education, Art and Design and Building and Construction Trades . There is a focus on practical skills, building on your knowledge and developing industry connections so you can successfully walk into an entry-level role or apprenticeship. TAFE NSW also offers industry-recognised qualifications, and our campuses feature purpose-built learning spaces. Learn from professionals who bring current industry knowledge to the classroom to help you succeed in your chosen field.

Browse our course areas.

This really depends on which course you would like to study and which level of qualification you’d like to achieve. TAFE NSW courses range from quick statements of attainment, introductory certificates, through to advanced diplomas and degrees.

Study might be part-time over an extended period or a full-time accredited qualification like technical certificate IVs or diplomas. These qualifications can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months or more, depending on your chosen field.

Many government funding opportunities exist for these types of qualifications. Some trade certificates only require six months part-time, making them particularly attractive. A flexible or part-time study program comes in handy if you have other commitments to juggle, such as childcare or existing work.

Click here to learn more about course types.

TAFE NSW offers a range of support services for all students, whether studying on campus or online. From Aboriginal support services to disability support, childcare services and counselling, TAFE NSW offers tailored support to help you meet your study and career goals in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Learn more about our support services.

The cost differences between university and TAFE NSW can vary greatly. Tuition fees for universities are generally higher than those at TAFE NSW, however, there may be some exceptions depending on your course at either institution. At TAFE NSW, we have different payment options to help with course fees. Depending on your circumstances, you may also be eligible for financial assistance.

A range of criteria apply for course fees. There are a range of fee-free* courses, government subsidies, Fee-HELP, Vet Student Loans and scholarships available through TAFE NSW.

Click here for more information.

*Eligibility criteria applies.

Some courses offer the chance to choose how to study, whether on-campus or online. At TAFE NSW, flexibility for work/life balance while studying for a qualification is important.

Learn more about ways to study.

• Contact your current institution for information about how to withdraw from your course before your education provider’s census date.
• To find a course that interests you, explore hundreds of TAFE NSW courses here.
• Find out more details on How to Apply or Enrol in a course at TAFE NSW.
• Click on the "Enrol" or "Apply" button on the course location page.
• Accept your offer.

There are many reasons for changing courses and TAFE NSW can help make that switch easier, with course transfers or university transfers. TAFE NSW recognises that you may have skills and knowledge gained through working, volunteering or previous study, which could be directly relevant to your course. This is called “recognition”. You can get recognition in two ways:

• Credit Transfer – recognises your previously completed studies, which may allow for entry into a qualification and/or provide credit towards the qualification.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) – recognises skills, knowledge or experience you have gained outside of the formal education and training system and how they may meet the requirements of your qualification.

Find out more about recognition and credit transfer here.

Yes, the TAFE NSW Counselling and Career Development Service is free, confidential, and designed to help current and prospective students succeed in their studies at TAFE NSW and in their chosen career.

• Prospective TAFE NSW students can access the service to help with course choice decisions and career planning.
• Students enrolled with TAFE NSW can access a range of services to aid in career development and personal support.

Click here to find out more about the free TAFE NSW Counselling and Career Development Services.

Yes, a Credit Transfer can be obtained to receive credit for previously completed unit(s) of competency, including earlier study at TAFE NSW. Ask your Teacher/ Head Teacher for details of credit transfer arrangements and identify the units in your new course that match your previous study, then complete the Enrolment Adjustment Credit Form and submit for your Teacher/ Head Teacher to complete.