Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS 104857H)

Course overview

Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS course code 104857H) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission, trading as TAFE NSW. This government-owned provider (CRICOS 00591E) has been educating international students for decades. The course runs for 58 weeks, offering a comprehensive introduction to carpentry and joinery. According to the CRICOS register, the indicative tuition fee is A$17,370, with no additional non-tuition fees, making the estimated total A$17,370. This fee is indicative and set by the provider; always check the TAFE NSW website for current charges. The course is delivered entirely in English and includes no mandatory work component. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this carpentry course is a solid choice for those seeking practical skills in the architecture and building sector.

What you'll study

This qualification falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04), specifically Building (0403) and Carpentry and Joinery (040311). At Certificate III level, students typically develop trade-level skills in planning, constructing, and repairing timber structures. Core units cover workplace safety, reading and interpreting plans, using hand and power tools, erecting and dismantling formwork, constructing wall and roof frames, installing windows and doors, and applying waterproofing systems. Graduates are prepared for roles such as carpenter, joinery apprentice, or site supervisor. The course emphasises practical, on-the-job learning with theoretical underpinnings. While HeadStart Academy does not provide specific syllabi, the CRICOS-registered nature of the course ensures the content meets Australian industry standards. For a detailed unit list, refer to the provider's website.

Duration and study mode

The Certificate III in Carpentry is scheduled for 1 year and 1 month, which equates to 58 weeks on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies component). The course is delivered on campus at two TAFE NSW locations: Kingscliff and Nirimba (Quakers Hill). Students should expect a full-time study load combining classroom theory and workshop practice. As an international student, you will need to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your student visa conditions. The duration is typical for a Certificate III level trade course in Australia.

Fees (indicative – set by Technical and Further Education Commission)

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$17,370, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$17,370. Please note: this fee does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Australia are estimated at approximately A$21,041 per year for a single person (Department of Home Affairs guidelines). For accurate, up-to-date fees, always visit the TAFE NSW international website. All fees are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

To enrol in this Certificate III course, international students must meet English language proficiency and academic entry requirements. The guide English level is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). For this AQF Level 3 qualification, a minimum of Year 10 completion (or equivalent) is typically expected, and some providers may require prerequisite skills in mathematics and English. Students who do not meet these criteria may consider pathway options, such as foundation studies or English language courses offered by the same provider. Always check specific entry requirements on the TAFE NSW website or consult the provider directly. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider makes the final decision. For visa purposes, you will need to demonstrate your ability to meet these requirements.

Work component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no built-in internship, work placement, or professional experience component. However, the practical nature of carpentry training means you will spend significant time in workshops simulating real work environments. During your studies, you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight under your Student visa (Subclass 500) during term time, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help you gain local experience and offset living costs. For information on graduate work pathways, such as the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485), consult a registered migration agent.

Delivery locations

This course is delivered at two TAFE NSW campuses: TAFE NSW Kingscliff, located in Kingscliff, NSW, and TAFE NSW Nirimba, located in Quakers Hill, NSW. Kingscliff is a coastal town in northern NSW, near the Queensland border, known for its beaches and relaxed lifestyle. Quakers Hill is a suburb in Western Sydney, about 35 km from the CBD, with good public transport connections via train and bus. Sydney has a large international student population with a rich cultural scene and diverse job opportunities. Living costs in Sydney are higher than regional areas: average weekly rent for a share house ranges from A$200–$350, groceries around A$80–$150, and public transport about A$40–$60. Regional Kingscliff offers lower costs but fewer part-time work options. Both campuses provide modern facilities and dedicated international student support services.

Student visa

To study this course in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, plus a short period after. Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and course progress requirements, and working up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time (unlimited during holidays). You must also hold adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the whole visa period. Your application will be assessed against the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, which requires you to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. You will need to show financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year), OSHC, and travel. For detailed information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa assistance.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Carpentry at Technical and Further Education Commission:

1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Browse courses on HeadStart Academy, filter by Certificate III and NSW, and shortlist providers. Ensure your chosen course meets your career goals and budget.

2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the TAFE NSW international website, check specific entry requirements (including English test scores), prepare documents (transcripts, passport, English test results), and submit your application before the deadline. You may also need to complete a pre-enrolment assessment.

3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online. Include evidence of finances, OSHC, GTE statement, and English proficiency. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.

Ready to build your career? Check the entry requirements and apply directly through TAFE NSW.

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