Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning (Professional Practice) (CRICOS course code 0100524) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission (TAFE NSW) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 8 qualification, classified under Investment and Securities (081105), is designed for professionals aiming to specialise in financial planning, investment advice, and portfolio management. Delivered at TAFE NSW Ultimo in Sydney, the course integrates theoretical knowledge with a mandatory work component of 12 weeks (12 hours per week), providing hands-on experience in the financial services industry. With an indicative total cost of A$12,080 (tuition A$11,580 plus non-tuition fees A$500), this program offers a cost-effective pathway to a career in banking, finance, and securities. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act and must meet Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements, including OSHC, GTE criterion, and financial capacity. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that sources data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you have accurate and up-to-date information.
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This course falls under the field of Investment and Securities, a sub-field of Banking, Finance and Related Fields. Students typically develop advanced skills in financial planning processes, investment strategies, risk management, and compliance with Australian regulatory frameworks. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for roles such as financial advisers, investment analysts, or portfolio managers. While the exact syllabus is set by TAFE NSW, general learning outcomes at this level include the ability to analyse complex financial data, formulate strategic advice, and apply ethical standards. Work-integrated learning is a key component, with a mandatory placement that allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world financial planning environments.
The Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning (Professional Practice) has a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and is taught in English. The program is offered on a full-time basis, typically involving a combination of classroom learning and the work component. Students should be prepared for intensive study, including lectures, tutorials, and independent research. The course is not classified as foundation studies or a VET program – it is a higher education graduate certificate.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$11,580, with non-tuition fees of A$500, giving an estimated total of A$12,080. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the student visa application charge are not included. For the most current fee schedule, including any annual adjustments, always check TAFE NSW's international website directly at https://www.tafensw.edu.au/international.
Entry requirements for graduate certificates typically include completion of a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification, and may require relevant work experience. English language proficiency is essential – requirements vary by provider but generally range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level and provider policies. For this course, TAFE NSW may specify a minimum IELTS score (e.g., 6.5) or equivalent. If you do not meet the academic or English requirements, TAFE NSW may offer pathway or foundation programs – contact the institution directly for personalised advice.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, 12 hours per week (~144 total hours). This is likely structured as an industry placement or internship within a financial planning firm or related organisation. The work-integrated learning component is designed to bridge theory and practice, allowing students to develop professional competencies under supervision. Placements are arranged by the institution, and students may have the opportunity to network with industry professionals, enhancing their employability upon graduation.
The course is delivered at TAFE NSW Ultimo, located in ULTIMO, NSW. Ultimo is an inner-city suburb of Sydney, close to the central business district and well-served by public transport (trains, buses, light rail). Sydney is Australia's largest city, with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses available nationwide. The city offers a vibrant student lifestyle, with numerous cultural, dining, and entertainment options. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average – indicative weekly expenses might include A$300–500 for rent, A$80–150 for groceries, and A$40–60 for public transport. These are estimates only; actual costs vary.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. All CRICOS-registered courses ensure ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee protection and access to complaint processes. For visa application guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Choosing to study in Sydney means immersing yourself in Australia's financial and cultural capital. The city is home to major banks, investment firms, and financial institutions, offering excellent networking and career opportunities for financial planning graduates. With a diverse student population and world-class public transport, Sydney provides a dynamic environment for international students. However, it is also one of the most expensive cities in Australia. Consider your budget for accommodation, groceries, and transport – typical weekly living costs can range from A$400 to A$600. If you value career prospects in finance and don't mind a higher cost of living, Sydney could be the right choice.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide below to start your journey towards a Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning at TAFE NSW.
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Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning (Professional Practice) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.