Entry requirements

To enrol in a TAFE course in Victoria, you might have to meet certain conditions. These can vary depending on the course and TAFE you choose.

Minimum age

Most TAFE courses are open to students aged 16 and older.

If you are under 17, you will need to be granted an exemption from school attendance to study at TAFE. This requires correspondence or a certificate signed by the School Principal or a Department Regional Director.

English language and numeracy skills

The TAFE might check your English language, literacy and numeracy skills.

You might need to complete a language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills (LLN and LLND) assessment.

This helps the TAFE to check if the course is right for you. They might recommend a more suitable course.

The TAFE might also recommend additional support that can help you succeed, such as literacy, numeracy and digital support.

If you’re an international student, you’ll need a minimum English language skill level, which varies for each course and each TAFE.

For more information contact your preferred TAFE or the TAFE and Training Line.

For information about support while you’re studying at TAFE, visit Support programs.

Previous education

To do some courses, you might need to complete Year 10, 11 or 12, or a higher-level course such as a certificate or diploma before you can enrol. If you haven’t met the formal education requirements, you may still be eligible based on relevant work experience or previous learning.

Citizenship, residency or visa status

You don't need to be an Australian citizen to study at TAFE, but your eligibility for government-subsidised courses may vary depending on your residency status and the specific TAFE.

Australian citizens, permanent residents and New Zealand citizens are generally eligible for all types of government-subsidised courses in Victoria.

Temporary visa holders, such as asylum seekers, may be eligible for subsidised training and Free TAFE in certain situations. Check with the TAFE you're interested in for more information.

International students outside of Australia can apply to study at TAFE. It is likely you will need to apply as an international student.

International students often need to meet extra requirements, including:

• being at least 18 years old
• evidence of a minimum English language proficiency level
• a valid student visa.

For information and advice about studying as an international student, visit Study Melbourne.

Documents

You’ll need to provide documents to support your application. These might include:

• birth certificate
• proof of citizenship or residency
• passport
• evidence of prior education (for example, transcripts or certificates).

Course-specific requirements

Depending on your course, you might need to:

• complete a written task or test, which may include an English language, literacy, numeracy, and digital skills assessment
• attend an interview or audition
• submit a portfolio of creative work
• provide a Police Check, Working with Children Check or NDIS Check
• show proof of immunisations or first aid certifications
• buy specific tools, uniforms or equipment.

Your TAFE institute will provide you with details of your course requirements during enrolment.

Get enrolment advice

If you don’t meet the requirements for your TAFE course, you might still have options. For advice, contact the TAFE and Training Line.

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