Certificate III in Dental Assisting (CRICOS course code 108108B) is a Certificate III delivered by TAFE Queensland over 44 weeks (~10 months). This nationally recognised qualification (HLT35021) equips you with the practical skills and knowledge to assist dentists during procedures, maintain infection control, and manage patient records. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03020E), it is approved for international student enrolment under the Student Visa (Subclass 500). With an indicative tuition fee of A$9,600 and a compulsory work component of 14 weeks (350 hours), this course offers hands-on experience in real dental clinics. Whether you plan to work in Australia or overseas, this qualification opens doors to a rewarding career in dental health. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and TAFE Queensland's website. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource to help you make informed study decisions.
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Certificate III in Dental Assisting (CRICOS 108108B) is a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification at AQF Level 3, offered by TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E). The course runs for 44 weeks (approximately 10 months) and includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks at 25 hours per week (around 350 total hours). The field of education is Dental Studies (060703), part of Health (06). Graduates are prepared to work as dental assistants in private or public dental practices. As a CRICOS-registered provider, TAFE Queensland adheres to the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and consumer protections. The indicative total fee is A$9,600, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. However, students must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges separately. This course is delivered at two campuses in Queensland: Loganlea (Meadowbrook) and South Bank (South Brisbane).
This qualification covers the essential competencies required for a dental assistant. You will learn to assist with dental procedures, prepare and maintain surgery environments, sterilise instruments, manage infection control, and support patient care. The curriculum aligns with national industry standards and includes both theoretical and practical components. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a detailed syllabus, typical topics include dental radiography, oral health education, and practice administration. The course is designed to develop your ability to work effectively in a dental team, communicate with patients, and uphold professional ethics. Upon completion, you may also receive the VET national code HLT35021, which is recognised across Australia.
The course duration is 44 weeks (approximately 10 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study mode is full-time, delivered face-to-face at the campuses. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification). It is not a foundation studies program. Students must attend classes as per the provider's schedule. The work component (14 weeks, 25 hrs/week) is integrated into the course structure, providing real-world experience in dental clinics. TAFE Queensland may also offer online or blended learning options – verify directly with the provider.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Dental Assisting at TAFE Queensland is A$9,600. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. Therefore, the estimated total cost is A$9,600. Please note: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the Student Visa application charge. As a guide, living costs in Brisbane (where the South Bank campus is located) are around A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport. In Loganlea, costs may be slightly lower. Always check TAFE Queensland's official website (www.tafeqld.edu.au) for the most current fees and any additional charges. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
International students must meet English language proficiency requirements. The indicative English requirement is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Additionally, you should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Some providers may require a police check or working with children check due to the nature of dental work. For specific entry criteria, contact TAFE Queensland. Foundation or pathway programs are not listed for this course, but you can ask the provider about options if you don't meet the requirements. Always confirm with the institution before applying.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 14 weeks, 25 hours per week (approximately 350 total hours). This is an industry placement or clinical placement in a dental practice. It allows you to apply your learning in a real workplace under supervision. You will gain hands-on experience in chairside assisting, sterilisation, and patient management. This component is essential for developing competency and is a requirement for graduation. TAFE Queensland will help arrange placements at approved dental clinics in Queensland.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Queensland: - Loganlea — Meadowbrook, QLD (south of Brisbane) - South Bank — South Brisbane, QLD (in the cultural precinct of Brisbane city) Both campuses are well-connected by public transport. South Bank is near the Brisbane River and offers easy access to buses, trains, and ferries. Loganlea is served by the Loganlea train station and multiple bus routes. Queensland is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a diverse study environment. Brisbane's student population is over 150,000, with affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
To study this course, you 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). Work rights: you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. Additionally, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. You'll need to show financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered MARA migration agent for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Dental Assisting at TAFE Queensland as an international student: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify that TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) and course 108108B are currently registered. 2. Apply directly to TAFE Queensland: Check entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS 5.0-5.5 or equivalent), and application deadlines. Submit your application through TAFE Queensland's international admissions portal. Provide academic transcripts, English test results, and a copy of your passport. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, TAFE Queensland will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare your visa documents: OSHC proof, financial evidence, GTE statement, and passport. Apply well before your course start date.
Queensland is a popular destination for international students, with over 600 CRICOS-registered providers. Brisbane, where the South Bank campus is located, offers a subtropical climate, diverse culture, and a strong job market for dental assistants. Living costs are generally lower than Sydney and Melbourne. The state has excellent public transport and student support services. If you prefer a quieter location, Loganlea offers a suburban setting with lower rent. Consider your lifestyle preferences and career goals. The dental industry in Queensland is growing, with many opportunities in public and private practices.
Ready to start your journey as a dental assistant? Explore more courses at HeadStart Academy or apply directly to TAFE Queensland today.
Certificate III in Dental Assisting is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE Queensland. 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.