Full Name: Technical and Further Education South Australia
Type: Government-funded vocational education institution
Location: Based in South Australia, with campuses across Adelaide and regional areas
Students: Over 68,000+ enrolled annually, including international students
Website: N/A
TAFE SA delivers nationally accredited training and education across a wide range of industries and fields. These include:
Certificates I–IV
Diplomas & Advanced Diplomas
Associate Degrees
University Pathways
Apprenticeships & Traineeships
Short Courses
English Language (ELICOS) Programs
Nursing & Health Sciences
Engineering & Electrotechnology
Information Technology & Cybersecurity
Business & Accounting
Hospitality & Commercial Cookery
Early Childhood Education
Community Services & Aged Care
Automotive & Construction Trades
Creative Arts & Design
Hair & Beauty
TAFE SA is CRICOS-registered, meaning it can host international students on a Subclass 500 – Student Visa. It provides:
English language support (EAP/ELICOS)
Support services (orientation, accommodation help, visa advice)
Pathways to top South Australian universities (e.g., University of Adelaide, Flinders University, UniSA)
Practical, hands-on training with industry placements
Main campuses include:
Adelaide City Campus
Regency Park (Hospitality, Cookery, Baking)
Elizabeth
Noarlunga
Mount Gambier, Port Augusta, Whyalla (regional)
Academic: Year 10–12 or equivalent (depends on course level)
English:
IELTS 5.5 – 6.5 (or equivalent TOEFL/PTE scores)
ELICOS available if you don't meet English entry requirements
Age: Usually 18+ at the start of the course
TAFE SA has strong industry links and often includes work placements or practical assessments as part of programs. Fields like nursing, cookery, aged care, IT, and community services offer high employment outcomes post-study.
Certificate I to IV – Entry to intermediate-level training
Diploma & Advanced Diploma – Higher-level, job-focused qualifications
Associate Degrees – Equivalent to 1–2 years of a university degree
University Pathway Programs – Credit transfer into bachelor's degrees
Short Courses & Skill Sets – Fast-tracked skills training
English Language (ELICOS) – For non-native speakers
Apprenticeships & Traineeships – On-the-job vocational training
Diploma of Nursing (with clinical placements)
Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care)
Certificate IV in Disability
Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance
Certificate IV in Cyber Security
Diploma of Information Technology (Networking, Software Development)
Certificate III in Information Technology
Game Design & Web Development options available
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Certificate IV in Education Support
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
Diploma of Hospitality Management
Certificate III in Patisserie
Certificate III in Baking
Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication, Mechanical Trade)
Certificate III in Electrotechnology
Advanced Diploma of Engineering Technology
Certificate IV in Business
Diploma of Business
Certificate IV and Diploma in Accounting and Bookkeeping
Leadership & Management pathways
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology
Heavy Vehicle and Diesel qualifications
Diploma of Graphic Design
Certificate IV in Visual Arts
Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging
Interior Design & Animation courses
Certificate III in Horticulture
Certificate III in Companion Animal Services
Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
Certificate III in Carpentry
Certificate IV in Building and Construction
Certificate III in Plumbing
TAFE SA offers a wide selection of CRICOS-registered courses for international students in:
Nursing
Business
IT
Cookery
Hospitality
Early Childhood
Engineering
Community Services
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Arts) (with Flinders University) |
3 years |
~$14,850 |
|
Bachelor of Tourism, Hospitality and Events (with Flinders University) |
3 years |
~$14,850 |
|
Bachelor of Fashion Design (with Flinders University) |
3 years |
~$14,850 |
TAFE SA is one of Australia’s largest and most trusted government-funded vocational education providers. It offers practical, job-ready training in a wide range of industries and is well-suited for students seeking hands-on skills, affordable study, and pathways to universities.
CRICOS-registered courses (eligible for Student Visa – Subclass 500)
Government-owned and nationally accredited
Affordable tuition fees compared to universities
Work placement opportunities included in many programs
Pathways to South Australian universities
Supportive services for accommodation, visas, and careers
TAFE SA offers courses in:
Nursing & Health
Information Technology (IT & Cybersecurity)
Commercial Cookery & Hospitality
Business & Accounting
Early Childhood Education
Community Services & Aged Care
Engineering & Electrotechnology
Creative Arts, Design & Fashion
Automotive & Construction Trades
All major qualifications offered: Certificate III to IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Associate Degrees, and University Pathway Programs.
Completion of Year 10, 11 or 12 (depending on the course level)
Some advanced diplomas and associate degrees require prior studies or relevant work experience
IELTS 5.5 to 6.5 (or equivalent TOEFL/PTE score)
ELICOS (English for Academic Purposes) available if you don’t meet language requirements
TAFE SA has campuses across Adelaide and regional South Australia, including:
Adelaide City Campus (most popular for international students)
Regency Park (cookery, hospitality, automotive)
Elizabeth, Noarlunga, Port Augusta, Whyalla, Mount Gambier
TAFE SA offers excellent support through its International Student Support team, including:
Pre-arrival and orientation support
Visa advice and GTE support
Accommodation and airport pick-up assistance
Academic and English support
Career services and job search help
24/7 emergency contact support
TAFE SA has formal articulation agreements with:
Flinders University
University of Adelaide
University of South Australia (UniSA)
Students can start with a TAFE diploma or advanced diploma and transfer with credit to finish a Bachelor’s degree at a university.
Visit the official TAFE SA website and explore courses for international students:
https://www.tafesa.edu.au/international
Pick a CRICOS-registered course (required for a Student Visa – Subclass 500)
Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 10, 11 or 12 (depends on course level)
English Language:
IELTS 5.5 to 6.5
Or TOEFL/PTE/Cambridge equivalent
ELICOS available if needed
You'll need to submit:
Passport (photo page)
Academic transcripts (translated into English if needed)
English language test results
Resume/CV (for some courses)
Statement of Purpose (if requested)
Apply online via the TAFE SA international portal
Apply Here
OR
Apply through a registered education agent in your country (recommended for visa support)
If your application is successful, you’ll receive a Letter of Offer
Carefully read the offer details: fees, conditions, and course information
Sign and return the Acceptance Form
Pay the initial tuition deposit (usually first semester fees)
Once payment is confirmed, TAFE SA issues your CoE
This is required to apply for your student visa
Use your CoE to apply for a Subclass 500 Student Visa via the Australian Government Home Affairs website
You'll need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement
Book flights and accommodation
Join the orientation program (online or in-person)
TAFE SA can assist with airport pickup and housing help
TAFE SA offers multiple intakes throughout the year, but the main intakes for international students are:
Intake Period |
Month |
Availability |
|---|---|---|
|
Semester 1 |
February |
Major intake (most courses available) |
|
Semester 2 |
July |
Many courses available |
|
Other Intakes |
April, October |
Limited courses and availability (check course page) |
Not all courses are available in every intake. Always confirm on the specific course page at.
Course Level |
Academic Entry Requirement |
|---|---|
|
Certificate III/IV |
Completion of Year 10 or 11 equivalent |
|
Diploma / Advanced Diploma |
Completion of Year 12 or equivalent |
|
Associate Degree |
Year 12 + meeting subject-specific prerequisites |
|
Bachelor (via partner uni) |
Year 12 + higher academic merit + English requirements |
Some programs may also require interviews, portfolios, or relevant work experience (e.g., Design, Fashion, Aged Care)
Course Level |
Minimum IELTS Score |
|---|---|
|
Certificate & Diploma |
IELTS 5.5 (no band <5.0) |
|
Advanced Diploma & Associate Degrees |
IELTS 6.0 (no band <5.5) |
|
Health/Nursing Programs |
IELTS 7.0 (for Nursing) |
Equivalent tests also accepted: PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge English
You must be at least 18 years old at the start of your course (for international students).
As part of your visa process, you must:
Show that you’re a genuine student
Intend to study temporarily in Australia
Provide a Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your study and career goals
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Scholarship Value |
Applicable Courses |
|---|---|---|---|
|
TAFE SA International Scholarship |
New international students with strong academic performance |
Up to 15% off first-year tuition |
Selected Certificate, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma programs |
|
Destination Australia Scholarship (when available) |
International students studying at regional campuses (e.g., Mount Gambier, Port Augusta) |
AUD 15,000/year (≈ USD 9,900) |
Selected programs at regional locations |
|
Partner Country/Agent Promotions |
Students from selected countries applying via TAFE SA agents |
AUD 1,000–2,000 (≈ USD 660–1,320) |
Varies – based on intake & marketing campaigns |
|
Pathway Scholarship (case-by-case) |
Students progressing from ELICOS to a vocational course at TAFE SA |
Fee reduction or credit |
ELICOS + VET packaged students |
Note: Scholarships are often limited in number, competitive, and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Always check the latest offers on the TAFE SA International website.
Campus |
Location |
On-Campus Accommodation |
Off-Campus Options |
Estimated Cost/Week (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Adelaide City |
Central Adelaide |
Not available |
Homestay, student apartments, private rentals |
$220 – $400 |
|
Regency Park |
15 mins from Adelaide CBD |
Not available |
Homestay, shared housing near transport |
$200 – $360 |
|
Elizabeth |
Northern suburbs of Adelaide |
Not available |
Budget-friendly rentals, homestay |
$180 – $310 |
|
Noarlunga |
Southern Adelaide (near beaches) |
Not available |
Homestay and shared apartments |
$190 – $320 |
|
Mount Gambier |
Regional South Australia |
Not available |
Regional homestays, student lodgings |
$160 – $250 |
|
Whyalla |
Coastal regional city |
Not available |
Local housing, homestay |
$170 – $240 |
|
Port Augusta |
Outback/Regional |
Not available |
Homestays, regional rentals |
$160 – $230 |
Costs are approximate and may vary based on room type, location, and included services. Estimates based on exchange rate: 1 AUD ≈ 0.66 USD.
Type |
Details |
Weekly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestay |
Live with an Australian family; usually includes 2 meals/day |
$250 – $320 |
|
Shared Apartment |
Rent a private room in a shared flat with other students |
$200 – $300 |
|
Student Residence |
Fully furnished student apartments near city or campus |
$250 – $400 |
|
Private Rental |
Rent your own apartment/studio (not furnished, bills separate) |
$280 – $450 |
At TAFE SA, classes are designed to be hands-on and industry-focused. The learning environment is more personal compared to large universities, with smaller class sizes and direct access to trainers who are also industry professionals. Whether you're studying cookery, nursing, IT, business, or engineering, you’ll work with real-world tools and gain practical experience — sometimes even through mandatory work placements.
Many courses also offer pathways to universities, so you can start with a diploma and eventually earn a bachelor's degree with credit.
TAFE SA is home to students from around the world. You’ll meet people from Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, creating a rich, diverse environment both in class and on campus. The institute promotes inclusion, cultural understanding, and support for all backgrounds. This multicultural vibe makes it easier for international students to settle in and build friendships.
TAFE SA provides excellent support services for international students. These include:
Pre-departure and arrival guidance
Orientation sessions to help you understand life in Australia
Academic support and English tutoring
Mental health and wellbeing services
Help with finding accommodation and job search assistance
There’s always someone you can talk to — whether it’s for study help, visa questions, or just adjusting to a new country.
Even though TAFE SA doesn’t have large-scale campus events like some universities, it still offers opportunities to socialize, participate in workshops, and join student clubs. There are occasional cultural events, barbecues, networking days, and career expos. Plus, Adelaide itself is a vibrant city with plenty to explore — beaches, cafes, festivals, and parks.
Many students also get involved in part-time work, volunteering, or attending community events outside of campus.
Adelaide is one of Australia’s most affordable and liveable cities. It’s clean, safe, and easy to get around via public transport. Whether you’re at the Adelaide City Campus or in a regional location like Mount Gambier or Port Augusta, you’ll enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, access to nature, and a friendly local community.
Students can work part-time during their studies and full-time during holidays, helping to support themselves and gain valuable work experience.
TAFE SA is known for its practical, hands-on education, and many of its programs include mandatory or optional industry placements. These placements are designed to help students gain real experience in the workplace, build professional networks, and improve employability after graduation.
Diploma of Nursing
→ Includes 400+ hours of clinical placement in hospitals and aged care facilities.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
→ Includes 240–360 hours of placement in childcare centers.
Community Services & Aged Care
→ Includes on-site training with community health providers.
Hospitality & Cookery
→ Students gain hands-on experience in commercial kitchens, events, and cafes.
IT, Engineering & Creative Arts
→ May include industry-based projects, internships, or simulated work environments.
These placements are organised by TAFE SA, and often take place during or near the end of your course.
TAFE SA provides dedicated Career and Employment Services to help students transition into the workforce. These services include:
Help writing resumes and cover letters
Interview preparation workshops
One-on-one career advice and planning
Access to job listings and local employer connections
Support finding part-time work during study
Guidance on Graduate Visas (subclass 485) for post-study work rights
TAFE SA graduates have strong employment outcomes in high-demand industries like:
Healthcare (Nursing, Aged Care, Disability Support)
Hospitality & Commercial Cookery
Childcare and Education Support
Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Trades & Engineering
Employers in South Australia often prefer TAFE graduates because of their practical skills and real-world training.
You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.
You can work full-time during semester breaks.
After graduation, eligible students can apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) to stay and work in Australia for up to 2–4 years (depending on qualification and location).
TAFE South Australia has a high acceptance rate, estimated to be around 85% to 95%, especially for international students who meet the entry and visa requirements.
TAFE SA is a vocational education and training (VET) provider, focused on inclusive, skills-based education, rather than competitive, research-based admissions like universities.
Here’s why many students get accepted:
It offers practical programs (Certificates, Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas) designed to meet workforce needs.
Entry requirements are clearly defined and accessible.
TAFE SA is government-funded and aims to train both domestic and international students for job-ready careers.
Meeting the academic entry requirements (e.g. Year 10–12 equivalent)
Meeting English language requirements (e.g. IELTS 5.5–6.5)
Submitting complete and accurate documents
Providing a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) for your visa
Demonstrating you meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria
Even if TAFE SA accepts your application, the final decision on your student visa (Subclass 500) will depend on the Australian immigration authorities. So make sure your GTE statement and financial documents are in good shape.
Adelaide City Campus
Address: 120 Currie Street, Adelaide SA 5000
Programs: Business, IT, Marketing, Fashion, ELICOS, Creative Arts
Easy access via public transport (central CBD)
Regency Campus
Address: 137 Days Road, Regency Park SA 5010
Known for: Hospitality, Commercial Cookery, Automotive, Engineering, Baking
Facilities include training kitchens, workshops, and restaurants
Elizabeth Campus
Address: 70–74 Philip Highway, Elizabeth SA 5112
Programs: Engineering, Electrotechnology, Trades, IT, Community Services
Located in Adelaide’s northern suburbs
Noarlunga Campus
Address: 2A Marnie Road, Christies Beach SA 5165
Courses: Nursing, Aged Care, Education, Business
Near southern beaches and community services
Mount Gambier Campus
Address: 173 Commercial Street West, Mount Gambier SA 5290
Programs: Nursing, Business, Aged Care, Community Services
Located near the South Australia–Victoria border
Whyalla Campus
Address: 141 Nicolson Avenue, Whyalla Norrie SA 5608
Offers: Trades, Engineering, Business, Health
A coastal city with strong industry links
Port Augusta Campus
Address: 9–39 Carlton Parade, Port Augusta SA 5700
Courses: Health, Education, Regional Services
Regional and community-focused programs
Barossa Valley Campus (Nuriootpa)
Address: 1 Park Tce, Nuriootpa SA 5355
Known for: Wine and viticulture studies, trades, hospitality
Berri Campus (Riverland)
Address: Kay Avenue, Berri SA 5343
Focus on: Agriculture, Horticulture, Trades
Port Lincoln Campus
Address: 2 London Street, Port Lincoln SA 5606
Specialties: Marine, Aquaculture, Business, Trades
