Private education institutions and colleges in Australia offer certificates and diplomas for international students. Many institutions offer flexible study option, including distance learning programmes that are suitable for international students.
Choosing an institution
Before applying for a course at a private education institution or college, find out if it is registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). The CRICOS is a subsidiary of Australia's Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR).
Make sure the course, as well as the institution, is CRICOS-approved.
All CRICOS-registered institutions and courses are issued with code numbers, which must be prominently displayed on all promotional materials used by the private education institutions.
With recent changes to the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000, there is a cap set on the amount of fees that can be collected in advance by private education institutions or colleges.
How to apply
Selected private education institutions and colleges may be represented by IDP www.australia.idp.com. These private education institutions, English language colleges or vocational training providers will host an Open Day, usually at a hotel ballroom in your country, where you will be able to obtain more information from representatives of the institutions.
You can apply with these private education institutions at the Open Day. Some private education institutions may charge an application fee. Bring along your academic transcripts and English language proficiency result slips if you want a review with the education representatives.
Most private education institutions list their affiliated agents on their websites but if there is no agent listed, you can apply directly with the institution.
Higher education pathways
Your course at the private education institutions will result in either a certificate or (advanced) diploma. If you are looking to pursue higher education after your course, check beforehand if the private education institution has any articulation programmes with universities or Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Institutions.
An articulation agreement between the private education institution and the higher education institutions may provide you with advanced credit standings in your intended higher education programme, reducing the time needed to complete your higher education course.
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