TAFE NSW Institutes

About TAFE NSW Institutes

Technical and Further Education (TAFE), based in New South Wales (NSW), is known for its high-quality education. TAFE NSW is the largest vocational education and training provider in Australia. International students at TAFE NSW can choose from over 120 courses, including certificates, diplomas, and bachelor’s degree programs, as well as intensive English language courses and pathways to leading Australian universities.

Spread across over 30 campus locations across NSW, it enrols more than 400,000 students, including over 3,700 international students each year.

TAFE NSW ensures that international students make affordable investment in their studies including scholarships and financial assistance programs offered by the Australian Government. Students get adequate hands-on learning through the industry-aligned programs at the institution, making them job-ready and in demand by industry.

TAFE NSW’s small class sizes help students receive close attention from the high-qualified faculty whilst enjoying the company of many like-minded people in their classrooms.

International students receive end-to-end support from the institution’s support team which provides services related to personal and academic counselling of students. The International Students Office ensures that each student’s queries are answered and helps them access other on-campus benefits.

How to apply

The application process for international students at TAFE NSW involves the following steps:

1. Applicants must first choose the right program.
2. Applicants should make sure to meet entry requirements for the preferred program.
3. Download and complete the application form – for TAFE NSW to university pathways, applicants should download the respective university application form and submit it along with the application.
4. Prepare certified copies of documents. A certified copy is a copy of the original document signed and dated by the organisation that issued the original document, a government official, public notary or Justice of the Peace, or an agent of TAFE NSW, confirming that they have sighted the original.
5. Submit the application via email.
6. TAFE NSW assesses the application and issues an offer letter with an invoice.
7. Student must confirm acceptance.
8. TAFE NSW will issue a confirmation of enrolment (COE).
9. Student must apply for a VISA and enrol at TAFE NSW. 

Graduate outcomes

TAFE NSW alumni have benefited from their study experience and have been placed in a variety of jobs. Few of the testimonials on graduate outcomes include:

Salome Escobar

Course: Diploma of Nursing

Campus: TAFE NSW Castle Hill

Nationality: Colombia

“I came to Australia with a strong passion for nursing and a desire to grow professionally. After completing an English course, enrolling in the Diploma of Nursing at TAFE NSW became one of the best decisions I’ve made.

The course is incredibly hands-on and practical, giving me the skills I need to succeed in real clinical settings. My goal is to become a registered nurse in Australia, and thanks to the strong foundation I’ve gained at TAFE NSW, I feel ready for the next step.”

Luis Miguel Sabino Da Silva

Course: Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques

Campus: TAFE NSW Granville

Nationality: Portuguese

“The supportive environment at TAFE NSW helped me settle in quickly and feel confident from day one. The course combines real-world training with strong academic foundations, helping me grow both professionally and personally.

My advice is to make the most of the support available at TAFE NSW, connect with your teachers and embrace every learning opportunity. TAFE NSW offers excellent pathways into further study and the workforce.”

Study options

TAFE NSW has a range of study options available.

Students can opt for these programs along with English language courses that are available from beginner to advanced levels:

TAFE NSW to University pathways

International students looking to study in Australia’s top universities and earn credit can choose TAFE NSW to university pathway programs and enter a bachelor’s degree.

Why choose this?

• Students get to graduate, earning double qualifications – a TAFE NSW diploma as well as a bachelor’s degree from a top university.
• By paying low semester tuition fees, students choose a more reasonably priced way to enter a bachelor’s degree program.
• Students with good academic records and applied practical skills get well equipped.
• Students are employable on graduation.

Which universities offer this program?

• University of Technology Sydney
• University of Newcastle
• University of Wollongong
• Charles Sturt University

Diploma and advanced diploma courses:

These courses are for students who seek broader subject knowledge and paraprofessional skills. Study options range from nursing, information technology, building design, business, graphic design, hospitality management and human resource management.

Certificate courses:

Students who aim at theoretical and practical knowledge and skills for specialised work skills can opt for these courses. Certificate III and IV courses are available in a variety of subjects including, information technology, beauty services, early childhood, design fundamentals, hospitality and tourism. 

Degree programs:

Degree programs at TAFE NSW offer students opportunities to acquire and apply knowledge in a professional context. They are also trained in effective communication, critical analysis, teamwork and leadership skills. The degrees prepare graduates for professional careers and are designed to form study pathways to higher levels.