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    How you’ll learn at TAFE NSW

    A woman smiles while typing on a laptop. She sits at a desk with textbooks and pens on it, in a well-lit office.

    At TAFE NSW, we offer a mix of learning modes to ensure you gain a mix of theory and practical experience in your chosen field.

    Study requirements for international students

    International students must enrol in full-time courses.

    Contact hours

    A full-time course means that each week there are 20 scheduled course contact hours. This can include a mix of face-to-face classes, virtual classrooms and online/self-paced learning.

    Face-to-face learning

    At least two-thirds of course hours must be in person with your teacher.

    Online, virtual and/or self-paced learning

    Up to one-third of course hours may be delivered through these methods.

    Enrolment

    Upon enrolment, you will receive a copy of your personal timetable.

    Note: check the academic year calendar to assist with your planning.

    Calendar

    Course progress requirements

    You must meet your course progress requirements. This includes passing a minimum number of units each semester, as required by the course progress policy of the Department of Education (DE) and the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA).

    Students in English language courses must meet minimum attendance requirements. If you do not meet progress and/or attendance requirements, you may be reported to DHA.

    Your enrolment in each semester must enable you to complete the course in the period stated in your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE). You must not withdraw from any units in the course without the approval of the international student co-ordinator.

    Course progress requirements
    As an international student, you must meet your course progress requirements each semester. This includes:

    If you do not meet the required course progress and/or attendance standards, you may be reported to DoHA.

    You must also:

    • remain enrolled in a way that allows you to complete your course within the timeframe stated on your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE)

    • get approval from the international student coordinator before withdrawing from any units.

    Assessment methods

    TAFE NSW courses are assessed through a combination of assessment types, which may include:

    • written assignments
    • case studies
    • reports
    • group tasks
    • portfolios
    • presentations.
    Learn more
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    Work placement

    Work placement may be a required part of your course, providing valuable practical experience in a real-world setting.

    Is work placement required for your course?

    To find out if your course includes work placement, please visit your course page for details. Any work placement listed is compulsory, and your teacher will assist you with organising this.

    Completion requirements

    To successfully complete your course, you must pass all required units, including any work placement components.

    Explore courses
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    Learning resources and equipment

    TAFE NSW provides a range of equipment and learning resources to support your studies, including:

    • computers and internet access
    • whiteboards and collaborative spaces
    • simulated work environments
    • library facilities with additional learning materials.

    Additional learning resources can be found in the campus library facilities.

    Learn more
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    Online and virtual classrooms

    Online and virtual learning can make up to one-third of your total study hours.

    What is a virtual classroom?

    A virtual classroom is an interactive, real-time learning experience where students learn with a teacher and other students via web conferencing technology.

    Virtual classroom lessons typically include interactive exercises to build skills and share knowledge.

    TAFE NSW uses web conferencing technology platforms to connect students and teachers. The main one is Microsoft Teams. Your teacher will provide updates on class times and platforms.

    Learn what to expect, how to prepare and tips for online troubleshooting with our Virtual Classroom Guide below.

    Virtual Classroom Guide

    Participating in a virtual classroom

    The same rules apply in virtual classrooms as in face-to-face learning environments.

    Our Virtual Classroom Guide helps you understand how you can successfully participate, respect others and stay safe online.

    A woman sits at her desk with her computer open, studying online. She’s writing notes and appears to be smiling.

    We’re here to help

    If you can't access your virtual classroom, please call the TAFE NSW Customer Service Team on 131 601 and follow the prompts.

    If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can also seek help from the National Relay Service.

    National Relay Service