TAFE

What is TAFE?

Knowing what to do after leaving high school can be pretty tricky. With so many options out there it can be overwhelming thinking of the possibilities, but exciting, too! TAFE, which stands for Technical and Further Education, is an option that allows you to further your education and training, usually with a more ‘hands on’ and practical approach than you might find studying at University.

You might like the idea of TAFE if you’re interested in gaining qualifications and skills while also getting the experience to work and earn money through an apprenticeship or traineeship. TAFE can also be a pathway into university, expanding your knowledge and gaining skills and qualifications along the way.

What does TAFE offer?

TAFE is an appealing option for many people wanting to gain skills and qualifications to help gain employment in the industry they are interested in. There are many benefits of furthering your education through TAFE as it:

  • Provides flexibility for study and training offering full time, part time, flexible, distance and online modes of learning
  • Has practical, ‘hands on’ courses to gain skills and qualifications for a wide range of industries
  • Offers a wide range of qualifications, including certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas and degrees
  • Some TAFE institutes offer Higher Education (university- equivalent) qualifications
  • Gives you the opportunity to complete your secondary school studies
  • Enables you to study even while you are still at school or working full time
  • Allows you to earn and learn on the job through an apprenticeship or traineeship
  • Can provide a pathway into university and other further studies and training
  • Is affordable and HECs free
How to choose the TAFE course for you

Choosing a course that suits your interests and will give you the skills you need for your future career choices can seem a little daunting. Some courses might just jump out at you, while others might require some more research. The most important thing is to look at courses that interest you and the skills you’d like to develop. To find a subject or course you can study at TAFE check out My Skills and the links for each state and territory in the ‘how to apply’ section below.

How to apply for a TAFE or training course:

ACT: There is only one TAFE Institute in Canberra, Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) which you apply to directly

NSW: TAFE NSW

NT: Apply to Charles Darwin University or to Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education

QLD: TAFE QLD

SA: TAFE SA

TAS: TAFE TAS

VIC: Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre

WA: Education and Training WA