Entry Requirements
To apply for a course at TAFE NSW, you must meet all the entry requirements specific to your chosen course. These details are available on the individual course information page.
You can find equivalent Academic, English language and any additional requirements relating to your specific course below:
Academic Entry Requirements
Each TAFE NSW course has a specific academic entry requirement i.e., Year 10/Year 12 or equivalent, or a prerequisite.
You can find the country specific equivalent academic qualifications here:
English Language Requirements
Each TAFE NSW course has a specific English Language requirement equivalent to an Academic IELTS test score.
You can find the equivalent English entry requirements here:
If you are unable to meet the equivalent English Language requirements, TAFE NSW offers English Language programs to improve your language proficiency before commencing your vocational or higher education course. You can apply for an English package offer at the time of your application.
Additional Entry Requirements
Some courses may have additional entry requirements such as portfolio, interview, and essays.
You can find a course specific additional entry requirement here:
Delivery & Learning Resources
Mode of Study
International students are required to enrol into full time courses only, where there is a minimum of 20 hours course contact hours scheduled. At least two thirds of the scheduled course contact hours will require face-to-face attendance with your teacher. The remaining course contact hours may consist of online and/or self-paced learning. Upon enrolment you will receive a copy of your personal timetable.
To assist your planning click here to access the academic year calendar.
Assessment Method
TAFE NSW courses are assessed through a combination of assessment types that may include written assignments, case studies, reports, group tasks, portfolios and/or presentations. Some vocational courses require students attend one or multiple work placement sessions. Students must successfully pass all units to complete the qualification.
Equipment and Learning Resources
TAFE NSW campuses have a range of equipment and learning resources available to assist all students. A variety of equipment such as computers, internet access, whiteboard, and collaborative spaces along with a range of different simulated work environments are available. Additional learning resources can be found in the campus library facilities.
Virtual Classrooms
A virtual classroom experience is when students learn with a teacher and other students via web conferencing technology.
Teachers lead a virtual classroom where students from different locations access at the same time.
They typically include interactive exercises, which are an effective way of transferring knowledge and embedding skills.
It is different from online delivery because students and teachers are connected in real-time via web-conferencing.
Virtual Classrooms During COVID-19
Virtual classrooms are more widely available to support the current need for social distancing. Practical and interactive activities are a part of learning in a virtual classroom. However, modified face-to-face delivery will continue when it is needed, with practical exercises adjusted for social distancing and hygiene practices. Teachers will provide students with the specific details of how their classes will run incorporating connected learning, modified face-to-face training and other methods.
Benefits for Students
Virtual classrooms enable students and teachers to connect and continue their learning program while practising social distancing. Students benefit from:
- A teacher guiding their class through all their learning activities
- Individual support from their teacher to help them stay on track
- Access to classmates and social interaction with peers within a virtual classroom
- Learning valuable remote working skills, which are increasingly important in modern workplaces.
By virtual classrooms, students can build skills highly valued by employers such as digital literacy, remote working, problem solving and resilience.
TAFE NSW uses several web conferencing technology platforms to connect students and teachers. Examples include Microsoft Teams and Adobe Connect.
While teachers will provide students with personalised updates on class times and platforms, the Getting Ready for joining a Virtual Classroom Guide provides a general summary of:
- what to expect,
- what students will typically need to get ready, and
- tips for troubleshooting.
Participating in a Virtual Classroom
The same rules will apply within virtual classrooms as in other TAFE NSW learning spaces. This Virtual Classroom Expectation Guide helps you understand how you can successfully participate, respect others and stay safe.
If you are experiencing difficulties with access to a virtual classroom, place call the TAFE NSW Student Technology Service Desk in Australia on 131 601 and follow the prompts.