Are you an international student considering a career in dental hygiene? The Advanced Diploma of Oral Health (Dental Hygiene) (CRICOS course code 107254M) is an Advanced Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 2 years at their Gilles Plains Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian standards for international education. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00092B), TAFE SA is authorised to enrol international students, and the course comes with full ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to work as a dental hygienist or progress to further study, this program offers a pathway into the dental health profession in Australia.
The Advanced Diploma of Oral Health (Dental Hygiene) (CRICOS course code 107254M) is an Advanced Diploma at AQF Level 6, classified under Field of Education 060799 - Dental Studies, n.e.c. This 2-year (104 weeks) program is delivered by TAFE SA, a government-owned provider with a strong reputation for vocational education. The course is designed to equip students with advanced clinical skills in oral health promotion, dental hygiene treatment, and patient management. Graduates may be eligible to apply for registration with the Dental Board of Australia as a dental hygienist, subject to meeting additional requirements. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which guarantees quality education and student support. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this program is one of many in the health sector.
The Advanced Diploma of Oral Health (Dental Hygiene) falls within the broad field of Dental Studies. At this AQF Level 6, students develop specialised knowledge and practical skills in areas such as oral health assessment, dental radiography, periodontal therapy, and patient education. The curriculum typically covers preventive dentistry, infection control, and clinical practice under supervision. While specific subjects are set by TAFE SA, graduates at this level are prepared to work autonomously as oral health therapists in a range of settings, including private practices, public health clinics, and community health organisations. The course also emphasises professional communication, ethical practice, and cultural competence – essential for working in Australia's diverse healthcare environment. For a detailed syllabus, refer to TAFE SA's official course page.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years). It is delivered in English, the language of instruction. The program is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at the Gilles Plains Campus in Adelaide, with a combination of theoretical learning and practical clinical placements. The full-time study load typically aligns with the standard academic calendar. International students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with student visa conditions. For detailed information on timetables and mode of delivery (e.g., face-to-face, online, or blended), contact TAFE SA directly.
The indicative tuition fee for the Advanced Diploma of Oral Health (Dental Hygiene) is A$70,260. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, equipment, and uniform) are estimated at A$10,000, bringing the total estimated cost to A$80,260. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by TAFE SA. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fee schedules, always visit the TAFE SA international website at http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international. Living costs in Adelaide are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent around A$300–A$450, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60 (concession available for students).
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent English language test). Prior qualifications are expected, such as completion of an Australian Certificate IV or equivalent in a related field, or successful completion of secondary education with relevant prerequisites. Some providers may also consider relevant work experience. TAFE SA may offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – refer to the provider for details. All applicants must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for a student visa. It is essential to check the exact entry requirements with TAFE SA, as they can vary by intake.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 44 weeks of supervised clinical placement at 12 hours per week, totalling approximately 528 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) provides hands-on experience in real dental settings, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in patient care. Placements may occur in TAFE SA's own dental clinics or with partner organisations. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to undertake work placements that are a compulsory part of their course. The work component is integral to meeting professional registration requirements and developing industry-ready skills.
The course is delivered at TAFE SA's Gilles Plains Campus in Gilles Plains, a suburb of Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a vibrant city with a population of around 1.3 million and hosts over 30,000 international students from more than 100 countries. The cost of living is comparatively affordable, and the city is known for its festivals, food, and wine regions. Gilles Plains Campus is accessible by public transport, including buses and the O-Bahn busway. South Australia has over 70 CRICOS-registered providers offering a range of courses. Studying in Adelaide offers a balanced lifestyle with a strong sense of community.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory course progress, and adequate health insurance (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight when their course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating genuine intent to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for the Advanced Diploma of Oral Health (Dental Hygiene) at TAFE SA involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that TAFE SA (CRICOS 00092B) is the right fit for your goals. 2. Apply directly to TAFE SA: Prepare your documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport) and submit an application through TAFE SA's international admissions portal. Check application deadlines and any prerequisite requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, TAFE SA will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online, pay the application fee, and arrange OSHC. For visa support, contact a MARA-registered agent.
Adelaide offers a unique study experience with a strong focus on education and lifestyle. It is home to multiple universities and vocational institutions, with a supportive international student community. The city's public transport network makes commuting to Gilles Plains Campus convenient. Living costs in Adelaide are among the lowest of all Australian capital cities – indicative weekly rent for a share house ranges from A$200 to A$350, and a monthly transport pass costs around A$120. Adelaide also has a growing healthcare sector, providing potential networking and employment opportunities for dental hygiene graduates. Consider your personal preferences for climate, culture, and proximity to family when choosing your study destination.
Ready to start your journey in dental hygiene? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or contact TAFE SA directly to apply.
Advanced Diploma of Oral Health (Dental Hygiene) is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.