Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 103622B) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian Adelaide International College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification, with VET national code AUR30620, sits at AQF Level 3 and falls under the field of Automotive Engineering and Technology (030503 – Vehicle Mechanics). Designed for international students, it provides foundational and practical skills to diagnose, repair, and maintain light vehicles. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses across engineering and related fields. With a growing automotive services sector and affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne, Adelaide is an attractive destination for students pursuing a trade qualification. This page outlines everything you need to know about this course: entry requirements, indicative fees, work component, delivery locations, and how to apply. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. HeadStart Academy is a free resource for international students – we do not charge referral fees or receive commissions.
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This course is classified under Field of Education 03 – Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically 0305 – Automotive Engineering and Technology, and more narrowly 030503 – Vehicle Mechanics. At Certificate III level, students learn to perform a range of tasks including diagnosing and repairing light vehicle engines, steering and suspension systems, braking systems, electrical systems, and transmissions. The curriculum emphasises hands-on practical skills along with technical knowledge, workplace health and safety, and customer service. Graduates typically become qualified light vehicle mechanics or automotive technicians, capable of working in dealerships, independent workshops, or fleet maintenance centres. The course also incorporates work-integrated learning to bridge theory and real-world practice. Note that the specific syllabus is set by Australian Adelaide International College Pty Ltd – contact the provider for detailed subject outlines. HeadStart Academy does not own or modify course content; we simply present publicly available CRICOS data to help you compare options.
The CRICOS register lists the course duration as 1 year (52 weeks). Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – not a dual award or foundation studies program. Studying full-time on a Student visa (Subclass 500) typically requires a load of 20 contact hours per week, but this can vary by provider. Adelaide offers a supportive study environment with excellent public transport connecting campuses to the city and suburbs. As a student, you can expect a mix of classroom theory and workshop practice. The duration allows sufficient time to develop competence in light vehicle mechanical technology while meeting visa requirements for course progression.
According to the CRICOS register, the indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is A$12,000 for the full 52 weeks. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning no additional compulsory charges beyond tuition (e.g., enrolment, materials, or amenities fees) are recorded. However, you should always confirm directly with the provider as fees can change. The total indicative cost is A$12,000, but this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For a single student studying in Adelaide, the Department of Home Affairs estimates annual living costs at approximately A$21,041 (as of 2024-25), plus OSHC (around A$500–A$700 per year for single cover). Adelaide is known for lower rental costs – indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$150–A$250, groceries A$70–A$100, and public transport A$30–A$50. These figures are guides only; actual costs vary. For current fees, visit Australian Adelaide International College's website at www.aaic.edu.au.
International students must meet both academic and English language requirements. The typical English level for this course is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Academic requirements generally include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent, plus any prerequisite subjects specified by the provider. As this is a Certificate III, it is a vocational qualification that builds on basic literacy and numeracy. No foundation studies or pathway programs are listed for this course. Applicants should contact Australian Adelaide International College for detailed entry criteria, including any prerequisite certificates or work experience. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website or speaking with an education counsellor. Remember: meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa – you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and other visa conditions.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component. The CRICOS register specifies 8 weeks of work placement at 24 hours per week, totalling approximately 192 hours. This typically takes the form of an industry placement or internship in an automotive workshop, where you apply skills learned in class under supervision. Work-integrated learning is a hallmark of vocational education and training (VET) in Australia, helping students gain real-world experience and build professional networks. The placement may be arranged by the college or self-sourced with approval. As a Student visa holder, you must ensure the placement does not interfere with your course attendance and is directly related to your studies. The hours count towards your overall course requirements.
This course is delivered at a single location: 135 Pirie St Level 1, Adelaide SA 5000. Situated in the heart of Adelaide's central business district, this campus is easily accessible by bus, tram, and train – Adelaide Metro services run frequently. Adelaide's student population exceeds 150,000, with international students making up a significant portion. The city is known for its affordable lifestyle, vibrant culture, and proximity to world-class wineries and beaches. Studying at this campus places you near shops, restaurants, and accommodation options. With over 50 CRICOS-registered providers in Adelaide, you have a wide choice, but this location offers a dedicated automotive training setting.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian Adelaide International College, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English proficiency evidence. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. The ESOS Act (Education Services for Overseas Students Act) protects your rights, including tuition protection and refund policies. HeadStart Academy strongly advises checking the Department of Home Affairs website for current visa conditions and consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. We do not provide immigration advice.
Adelaide offers a unique study experience: it's smaller and more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, with a strong focus on community and lifestyle. For students pursuing automotive trades, the city has a solid industry base with many dealerships and independent workshops. The cost of living is among the lowest of all Australian capital cities – rent for a one-bedroom unit in the city averages A$350–A$450 per week, while shared accommodation is cheaper. Public transport is reliable, and the city is easy to navigate by bicycle. However, opportunities for part-time work may be slightly more limited than in larger cities. Consider your priorities: if you value affordability, a tight-knit student community, and hands-on training in a relaxed setting, Adelaide is an excellent choice. HeadStart Academy helps you explore all options across Australia – use our site to compare courses and providers.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology at Australian Adelaide International College Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy’s search to find courses that match your goals (filter by course level, field, and city). Ensure the provider is currently registered. Australian Adelaide International College (CRICOS 03126F) is one of many options in Adelaide’s automotive field.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit www.aaic.edu.au to access the application portal. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE), passport copy, and a statement of purpose. Check application deadlines – they vary by intake (typically February, July, and October). You may also apply through an authorised education agent.
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – Once the college issues your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), you can lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include your CoE, OSHC policy, evidence of funds, GTE statement, and health insurance. Visa processing times vary; apply early. Remember: you must maintain enrolment, attend classes, and meet visa conditions throughout your stay.
Ready to start your automotive career? Explore more automotive courses in Adelaide or contact Australian Adelaide International College directly via their website.
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Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Adelaide International College Pty Ltd. 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.