TAFE – a practical alternative to university study in Australia
While University study can broaden an individual’s education and provide valuable credentials for a future career path, often commiting years to completing a university degree may prove impractical or inappropriate for every individual. In addition to being time-consuming and lengthy in duration, many university courses are academia based and provide little practical preparation for the workplace, or little guarantee that after graduation a job will be available. Fortunately there is an alternative form of study in Australia that guarantees practical workplace experience, the development of trade skills, in a variable study format.
The Australian Technical and Further Education system, more commonly known as TAFE, is a government-owned study system which aims to cater for a broad range of both academic and trade-based subjects. Rather than being awarded a degree, upon completion of their course students receive a Diploma which can either be a certification in itself and a pathway into employment, or can be counted as points towards a university accreditation. The minimum age for entry into TAFE is 16, meaning many Year 11 and 12 students complete their studies at TAFE with the intention of contributing to a future career.
The type of courses on offer at TAFE differ from that of a university. While academic subjects are on offer, there are also a variety of practical and trade-based courses in which students can gain a qualification in their chosen field. It is also an alternative to completing an apprenticeship, or can contribute to the full duration of an apprenticeship. It is extremely beneficial to those wishing to pursue an industry based career as it provides certification and future employment opportunities.
Another benefit is the cost of TAFE study, which is significantly less than university study, a course beginning at around AU$100. There are also a number of student scholarships available, including those on offer specifically to international students.
International students are welcome to enrol in TAFE courses on either a Student visa or a Short Stay visa of 3 months. TAFE requires its international students to have an IETS rating of 5.5 for most courses, a TOEFL of 46 or similar accredited english competency test score. Certificate courses require at least a Year 10 or equivalent study level. For further information, please visit the http://tafe-australia.org website.
