Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is one of Australia's most affordable and scenic cities for international students. With a relaxed pace of life, a thriving arts scene, and stunning natural surroundings, it offers a unique study experience away from the hustle of bigger cities. Hobart is home to 26 CRICOS-registered providers (3 government, 23 private) delivering around 399 active courses across all study levels. Whether you're interested in marine biology, business, health, or IT, Hobart provides quality education under the ESOS Act protections. At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate your study journey with data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Use this page to explore why Hobart could be your ideal study destination.
Counted from the official register for Hobart: 399 non-expired CRICOS courses across 26 providers.
Most common course levels
Planning baseline from the CRICOS register [CRICOS register, Apr 2026]. Confirm fees, intakes and visa settings with the provider and government sources before applying.
Ranked by active CRICOS course coverage for Hobart on the April 2026 register snapshot. Recalculated this build (2026-10-06). Use this as a shortlist, then confirm current fees and intakes with each provider.
Commercial disclosure: Payment does not affect this ranking or inclusion. Ordering is coverage-based from the CRICOS register — not an endorsement or quality score. How we rank · Is this legit?
Brighton Pacific Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 45 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$4,000 to A$30,200. Common levels include Non AQF Award, Certificate IV, Certificate III.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03430J, Private, 45 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Reach Community College Pty Ltd
Reach Community College Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 42 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$11,000 to A$34,700. Common levels include Certificate III, Certificate IV, Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03904B, Private, 42 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Alphacrucis University College Limited
Alphacrucis University College Limited is a private CRICOS provider with 38 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$11,200 to A$111,400. Common levels include Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree, Graduate Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00958A, Private, 38 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Top Education Group Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 34 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$12,260 to A$72,300. Common levels include Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, Masters Degree (Coursework).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 02491D, Private, 34 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Australian Vocational Training Academy Pty Ltd
Australian Vocational Training Academy Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 29 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$1,700 to A$30,500. Common levels include Certificate III, Diploma, Advanced Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 04034B, Private, 29 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Australian Ideal College Pty Ltd
Australian Ideal College Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 28 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$5,200 to A$23,760. Common levels include Non AQF Award, Diploma, Advanced Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03053G, Private, 28 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd
Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 27 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$2,980 to A$31,000. Common levels include Certificate IV, Diploma, Non AQF Award.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03217C, Private, 27 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
TasTAFE is a government CRICOS provider with 23 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$7,630 to A$18,815. Common levels include Non AQF Award, Diploma, Certificate III.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03041M, Government, 23 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Brighton College Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 18 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$8,610 to A$30,000. Common levels include Certificate III, Certificate IV, Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03635G, Private, 18 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
AUSTRALIAN SOVEREIGN COLLEGE PTY LTD
AUSTRALIAN SOVEREIGN COLLEGE PTY LTD is a private CRICOS provider with 18 active courses matched to Hobart. Indicative course totals on register from A$8,600 to A$29,250. Common levels include Advanced Diploma, Diploma, Graduate Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03907K, Private, 18 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Similar to a register-first directory: every claim you can act on should be checkable against an official source. Full ranking rules: methodology.
Maintained by HeadStart Academy editorial · Snapshot recalculated this build (2026-10-06).
| Expense | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared) | $260–$450 |
| Groceries | $70–$110 |
| Transport | $30–$50 |
| Utilities & internet | $20–$40 |
| Total | $400–$720 |
Hobart offers a distinctive blend of cultural vibrancy and natural beauty that sets it apart from mainland capitals. The city's temperate climate (cool winters, mild summers) makes it comfortable year-round. Key industries include tourism, aquaculture, agriculture, and renewable energy, providing niche opportunities for work-integrated learning. The city is known for its student-friendly precincts around the University of Tasmania's Sandy Bay campus and the Hobart City Campus. Public transport includes a bus network with student concessions, and the city is compact enough to cycle or walk. The international community is smaller but welcoming, with affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Hobart's slower pace allows students to focus on study and explore Tasmania's wilderness on weekends.
Hobart has 26 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses to international students. Of these, 3 are government institutions, including the University of Tasmania (UTAS) and TasTAFE, while 23 are private colleges and schools. Well-known providers include: University of Tasmania (UTAS) – a top research university; TasTAFE – the state's largest vocational education provider; Australian Maritime College (a specialist institute of UTAS); Tasmanian Polytechnic; and private colleges such as Imagine Education, IH Sydney Training Services (with Hobart delivery), and Australasian Gurkha College. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian Government standards for international student education.
Approximately 399 active courses are delivered in Hobart across all levels, from Foundation and English language courses to Bachelor degrees, Master degrees, and PhDs. The most popular fields of study in Hobart are Health (especially nursing and medicine), Management and Commerce (including accounting and business management), Engineering and Related Technologies, and Natural and Physical Sciences (with a focus on marine biology and environmental science). Vocational courses in hospitality, tourism, and aged care are also prominent due to Tasmania's key industries. The University of Tasmania offers around 100+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs, while TasTAFE provides over 200 vocational certificates and diplomas. Course fees vary widely: English language courses start from AUD 250 per week, vocational courses from AUD 6,000 per year, and bachelor degrees from AUD 25,000 to AUD 35,000 per year. All fees are indicative and set by institutions.
Hobart is one of the most affordable student cities in Australia. Indicative weekly living costs are:
Total indicative weekly costs range from AUD 400 to 720. These are estimates; actual costs depend on lifestyle and accommodation type. The Australian Department of Home Affairs recommends students budget at least AUD 21,041 per year for living expenses (excluding tuition). Compared to Sydney (AUD 600–1,000/week) or Melbourne (AUD 550–900/week), Hobart offers significant savings. For accurate budgeting, use the official Cost of Living Calculator on the Home Affairs website.
Hobart's public transport is primarily bus-based, operated by Metro Tasmania. Students can purchase a Greencard for discounted fares, and student concessions are available with a valid student ID. The University of Tasmania's main campus at Sandy Bay is about 3 km south of the CBD, easily accessible by bus (routes 501–522) or a 30-minute walk. TasTAFE's Campbell Street campus is in the city centre. The Australian Maritime College is in Launceston, not Hobart, but UTAS also has a Newnham campus in Launceston. For outer-suburban campuses, such as the Kingston campus, buses run frequently. Cyclists benefit from Hobart's compact size, and the city is walkable. A student transport pass costs about AUD 30 per week. No train or light rail exists yet, but a ferry service connects the city to Bellerive.
Hobart offers distinct advantages: lower living costs, a tight-knit community, breathtaking nature, and good work-life balance. However, it has downsides. Job opportunities for part-time work are more limited compared to mainland capitals, and post-study work options in Tasmania are tied to regional status (you may be eligible for additional stay under the Regional Australia migration arrangements). The weather is cooler and rainier; some find winters gloomy. The city is isolated, with fewer direct international flights. If you value affordability, a quiet study environment, and outdoor adventures, Hobart is ideal. If you seek constant metropolitan buzz or a job market in finance or tech, a larger city might suit better. Consider your priorities: career goals, climate preference, and budget. Consult a registered migration agent for visa-related decisions.
Applying to study in Hobart involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level and field in Hobart. Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered; only these can enrol international students. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check entry requirements (academic and English language proficiency, e.g., IELTS 6.0–7.0), prepare documents (transcripts, passport, personal statement), and submit before deadlines (UTAS usually has intakes in February and July). 3. Receive your CoE and apply for a Student visa – Once accepted, you'll get a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Apply for the Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs, providing CoE, OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Ensure OSHC is valid for your intended stay. For visa queries, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Ready to start your study journey in Hobart? Explore CRICOS-registered courses and get expert visa guidance from HeadStart Academy.