Vocational education and training

Sydney and New South Wales (NSW) have a long history of providing opportunities in Vocational Education and Training (VET).

As a graduate of our world-class training system, you will gain practical workplace skills and academic qualifications to move directly into a career or gain credit towards a degree pathway with an Australian university or private higher education institution.

Supporting your study

Your safety and personal wellbeing are of the highest priority. On-campus international student coordinators, careers advisers and counsellors provide tailored orientation and welcome programs. Ongoing professional support is provided to international students throughout their studies.

In Sydney and throughout NSW, VET courses are provided at government-owned and operated by Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Institutes, as well by private and community-based colleges.

Private VET colleges and institutions are very popular with international students, with the majority of international students in NSW studying at a private college. VET colleges deliver a large and diverse number of nationally-recognised courses in a wide variety of disciplines, including business, information technology, creative arts, hospitality, engineering, trades and English language.

A variety of intensive English programs and university preparation courses that in assist in preparing for tertiary studies are also available for public and private VET providers.

To search for government-approved courses available to international students at both TAFE and private colleges in NSW, visit cricos.deewr.gov.au.

Additionally, TAFE NSW, the NSW Government VET training network offers more than 1,200 work-related training courses and intensive English programs at 130 campuses throughout Sydney and other cities and towns in the State. For more information on studying at TAFE NSW visit NSW Department of Education and Communities.

For more information on private and independent colleges offering VET and degree courses, visit the Australian Council of Private Education and Training (ACPET) website.

International students can choose nationally-recognised qualifications ranging from Certificate to Advanced Diploma, Diploma-to-Degree and Bachelor degree courses with many private and public VET providers.