March 29, 2024
Carpentry
Exploring Education in Australia
Ever wondered what makes education in Australia so irresistible to students worldwide? It’s not just the allure of sunny shores and vibrant cities; the core of its appeal lies in the diverse educational pathways it offers.From English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) that lay the foundational language skills, to Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs that equip students with practical, career-focused abilities, and the comprehensive range of higher education opportunities within renowned universities, Australia stands out as a model of inclusive education.
What are ELICOS Courses in Australia?
ELICOS, or English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students, is a specialised type of education in Australia for people who want to improve their English skills. These courses cover various aspects of English, from everyday conversation to academic English necessary for studying or working in an English-speaking environment. They’re particularly important for international students who wish to pursue further studies or enhance their job opportunities in Australia.
There are different types of visas available for ELICOS courses, including the Student Visa (Subclass 500), Work and Holiday Visas (Subclass 462), Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417), and Visitor Visas (Subclass 600). Each visa type has its own conditions and limitations regarding the duration of study permitted.
For instance, if you’re on a tourist visa, you can enrol in an English course for up to 13 weeks. However, if you hold a Work and Holiday or Working Holiday Visa, you can extend your study period to 17 weeks. These courses are offered at various institutions across Australia, making them accessible to students nationwide.
When it comes to the cost, it depends on factors such as the institution, the specific course chosen, and its duration. Prices may vary significantly, so it’s essential to research and compare options to find the best fit for your budget and learning goals.
The best way to acquire skills: VET Courses
Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses in Australia are practical and skills-based training programs designed to prepare individuals for specific careers or industries. These courses, offered by institutions such as TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutes and registered training providers, are developed in collaboration with industry experts to ensure that graduates acquire the practical skills and knowledge required for employment in their chosen field.
VET courses cover a wide range of industries and occupations, from trades and technical roles to business, hospitality, healthcare, and more. They often include hands-on learning experiences, work placements, and industry-relevant assessments to equip students with the skills and qualifications needed to enter the workforce successfully. Additionally, VET qualifications can serve as pathways to further study or higher education, with some courses offering credits towards university degrees.
Things you need to know in VET Courses
Every occupation differs based on your individual profile. If you’re aiming for Permanent Residency (PR) through one of these courses, our best advice is to consult with an immigration agent beforehand. Some individuals may qualify for a postgraduate visa, while others may not. To determine the best option for your post-study plans, only an immigration agent can provide guidance. However, neither an immigration agent nor an Education agent can guarantee obtaining PR within 2 or 3 years. Many variables can arise, and regulations may change during your studies.
Pursuing something you’re passionate about is crucial. It’s always preferable to invest time in a field you enjoy in case of unforeseen circumstances, rather than pursuing something solely for the promise of PR.
At True Blue Studies, we prioritize your journey and can arrange an appointment with an Immigration Agent to ensure that our advice is endorsed by a government official.
Most Popular VET Courses in Australia
Carpentry
Duration: 24 months
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 12,000 and AUD 15,000 per year
Intake dates: once every 3 months, depending on the school you choose
Outcome: Carpenter in commercial construction, industrial construction and housing projects
Civil Construction design
Duration: 24 months
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 12,000 and AUD 15,000 per year
Intake dates: once every 3 months, depending on the school you choose
Outcome:
- Civil Construction Supervisor
- Civil Engineering Design Draftsperson
- Senior Civil Works Designer
- Civil Engineering Technician
- Civil Engineering Draftsperson
Boat building
Duration: 24 months
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 10,000 and AUD 15,000 per year
Intake dates: January and July
Outcome: Boat builder
Bricklaying
Duration: 24 months
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 12,000 and AUD 15,000 per year
Intake dates: once every 3 months, depending on the school you choose
Outcome: Bricklayer
Automotive
Duration: 24 months
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 13,000 and AUD 44,000 per year
Intake dates: once every 3 months, depending on the school you choose
Outcome:
- Motor Mechanic (General)
- Automotive Light Vehicle Mechanical Repair Technician
- Automotive Heavy Vehicle Master Technician
- Automotive Master Technician
- Automotive Mechanical Overhaul Technician
- Performance Vehicle Technician
- Automotive Services/Repair Manager
- Retail Sales Manager
- Automotive Warehouse Manager
- Customer Service Manager
- Purchasing Manager
- Automotive Workshop Manager
Wall and floor tiling
Duration: 24 months
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 12,000 and 15,500 per year
Intake dates: once every 3 months, depending on the school you choose
Outcome: Tiler and Wall and Floor tiler
Commercial cookery
Duration: 24 months
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 10,000 and AUD 18,000 per year
Intake dates: once every 3 months, depending on the school you choose
Outcome:
- Commis chef
- Chef de partie
- Sous chef de cuisine
- Chef de cuisine
- Chef Executive
Engineering Fabrication
Duration: 24 months
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 10,000 and 15,000 per year
Intake dates: once every 3 months, depending on the school you choose
Outcome:
- Welder
- Boilermaker-welder
- Metal template maker
- Structural steel trades worker
- Metal fabricator
- Fitter and turner
- Brass finisher
- Metal fabricator-welder
Hospitality
Duration: 24 months minimum
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 15,000 and 33,000 per year
Intake dates: once every 3 months, depending on the school you choose
Outcome:
- Banquet or function manager
- Bar manager
- Café manager
- Chef de cuisine
- Chef patissier
- Club manager
- Executive housekeeper
- Front office manager
- Gaming manager
- Kitchen manager
- Motel manager
- Restaurant manager
- Sous chef
- Unit manager catering operations
Hairdressing
Duration: 24 months
Cost (not including insurance and visa): between AUD 12,000 and AUD 15,000 per year
Intake dates: once every 3 months, depending on the school you choose
Outcome:
- Hairdresser
- Barber
- Stylist
Higher Education in Australia
In Australia, higher education encompasses a diverse range of tertiary education programs offered by universities and other higher education institutions, all within the framework of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). This national tertiary (post-secondary) education system comprises 10 different levels, facilitating seamless progression from one level of study to the next, as long as students meet their visa requirements. These qualifications are nationally accredited and recognised internationally in many industries.
Higher education in Australia, structured across various levels of study including undergraduate, postgraduate coursework, and doctoral degree, provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen fields, preparing them for professional careers or further academic pursuits.
Undergraduate level (Bachelor degree)
Duration: typically 3 years (4 years for a Bachelor Honours degree)
Intake dates: usually March, but can vary by course and education provider.
Postgraduate level (Master degree)
Duration: 1 to 2 years
Intake dates: usually March, but can vary by course and education provider.
Doctoral degree
Duration: 3 years
Intake dates: start dates are negotiated with a Doctoral degree supervisor
How can True Blue Studies help you?
We can assist you throughout the entire process, from selecting the right course and campus location to applying to your chosen education provider, organizing the English test, translating your academic documents, and submitting the student visa application.
Recognizing the challenges and complexities of relocating to Australia for education, True Blue Studies offers a comprehensive Student Visa Pack. This pack includes a range of services aimed at facilitating a smooth transition to studying and living in Australia. Consequently, it allows students to focus on their academic pursuits without the added stress of logistical arrangements. At the core of the pack is a commitment to personalized service, recognizing that each student’s aspirations, preferences, and circumstances are unique. Moreover, with a deep understanding of the Australian education system, True Blue Studies leverages its extensive network of educational institutions to match students with courses that align with their academic goals and career ambitions.
If you are interested in this type of visa or have any questions about it, feel free to contact us.
Written by Emma, intern at True Blue Studies
