Certificate III in Hairdressing (CRICOS course code 094149A) is a Certificate III delivered by Canberra Institute of Technology over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification, coded SHB30416, falls under the field of Personal Services (Hairdressing) and equips students with practical skills in cutting, styling, colouring, and salon management. Delivered at the CIT Woden campus in Phillip, ACT, this course is designed for international students seeking a hands-on career in the hairdressing industry. With a strong work-integrated learning component, students gain real salon experience. Canberra Institute of Technology is a government-owned TAFE institution (CRICOS 00001K) with a reputation for high-quality vocational training. All courses listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian standards for international students.
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Certificate III in Hairdressing (CRICOS course code 094149A) is a Certificate III delivered by Canberra Institute of Technology over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This vocational qualification is at AQF Level 3 and is part of the SHB30416 training package. It focuses on developing technical and customer service skills for employment as a hairdresser or salon assistant. The course is taught in English and includes a mandatory work component of 18 weeks (28 hours per week, totalling approximately 504 hours). This work placement provides real-world experience in Australian salons. International students benefit from CIT's strong industry links and modern facilities. The course is registered on the CRICOS register (course code 094149A), ensuring it meets the Australian Government's standards for overseas students. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act.
This hairdressing course covers the core skills required for a professional hairdresser. Students learn about hair cutting, styling, colouring, and chemical treatments such as perming and relaxing. The curriculum also includes salon hygiene, client consultation, retail sales, and basic business operations. Graduates typically gain competencies in designing and creating hairstyles, applying colour and lightening products, and providing scalp and hair treatments. Safety and infection control are emphasised. While specific syllabus details may vary, the SHB30416 national standard ensures consistency across providers. Practical sessions in CIT's simulated salon environments prepare students for real-world work. This course is ideal for those who enjoy creative, client-facing roles.
The course duration is 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered full-time in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at the CIT Woden campus in Phillip, ACT. The program combines classroom learning with practical salon training. Given the practical nature of hairdressing, attendance in workshops and supervised salon sessions is mandatory. The course is designed to be completed within the standard timeframe, but individual progress may vary. Canberra Institute of Technology provides support services for international students, including academic counselling and language assistance.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The tuition is A$24,120 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (including materials, student services, and amenities) are estimated at A$2,005, bringing the total indicative cost to A$26,125. Please note these fees are set by Canberra Institute of Technology and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website (https://international.cit.edu.au/) before applying. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$500–A$600 per week for rent, food, and transport in Canberra), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring fee refunds in certain circumstances.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. Prior academic qualification: completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent is expected for entry into Certificate III level. Some providers may require a foundation or pathway program if prior qualifications are not met. Canberra Institute of Technology may also assess previous study or work experience. For specific entry requirements, refer directly to CIT's international admissions page. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; places are competitive. All applicants must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa.
This course includes a compulsory work component of 18 weeks, 28 hours per week (approximately 504 total hours). This structured work-integrated learning takes the form of an industry placement in a real salon. Students gain hands-on experience performing hairdressing services under supervision, developing their speed, technique, and client communication skills. The placement is arranged by CIT in partnership with local salons in Canberra. It is an integral part of the qualification and must be completed to graduate. International students should note that work placements are considered part of the course and are not subject to the usual 48-hour-per-fortnight work limit. However, any paid work outside placement is subject to standard student visa conditions.
The course is delivered at CIT Woden, located in Phillip, ACT. Canberra is the capital city of Australia with a population of about 450,000. It has a vibrant student community with several universities and vocational colleges. Living costs in Canberra are moderate; indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$40–A$60 (concession cards available for students). The CIT Woden campus is accessible by bus and car, with parking available. Canberra's salon industry is growing, providing potential networking opportunities for students. Studying in Canberra offers a safe, clean environment with easy access to nature and cultural attractions.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this CRICOS-registered course. Key conditions: work up to 48 hours per fortnight when the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies – you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study. Financial capacity evidence is required (tuition + living costs + travel). Upon completing the course, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide visa advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Hairdressing at Canberra Institute of Technology:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that your chosen course and provider are registered. Filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Hairdressing), and location (ACT). Ensure the provider (CIT, CRICOS 00001K) is government-registered.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit CIT's international website (https://international.cit.edu.au/) to review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with required documents (transcripts, English test results, passport copy).
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, CIT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via ImmiAccount. You must provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Allow ample processing time (4–8 weeks recommended).
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Certificate III in Hairdressing is a CRICOS-registered programme at Canberra Institute of Technology. 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.