Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS 108758A)

Course Overview

Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS course code 108758A) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification in the field of Architecture and Building (0403 - Building, 040311 - Carpentry and Joinery). Delivered by Australian Institute of Professionals (AIP) Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03934G), the course spans 1 year 10 months (~96 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and the course does not include a mandatory work component. This is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program). All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. AIP is a private provider with multiple campuses in Victoria, offering a practical pathway into the construction trades.

What You'll Study

This course covers the skills and knowledge required for a career in carpentry and joinery, aligned with the VET national code CPC30220. Students learn to read plans, select materials, construct frameworks, install doors and windows, and apply finishing techniques. The curriculum emphasises workplace safety (WHS), teamwork, and communication. Graduates gain competencies that meet industry standards for residential and commercial construction. While the exact syllabus varies by provider, this level of qualification typically includes both theoretical and practical components, preparing students for apprenticeships or entry-level positions. Australian qualifications are highly regarded globally, and this course is registered under CRICOS to ensure quality assurance.

Duration and Study Mode

The course is delivered over 1 year 10 months (~96 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study mode is full-time, on-campus at AIP's delivery locations. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation pathway). Students should be prepared for a commitment of approximately 20-25 hours per week, including classes, practical workshops, and self-study. Availability of part-time options is at the provider's discretion – check with AIP directly. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.

Fees (Indicative)

Indicative fees for Certificate III in Carpentry at Australian Institute of Professionals (AIP) Pty Ltd are as follows: tuition A$25,000, non-tuition fees A$2,850, estimated total A$27,850. Please note: these are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover, living expenses (accommodation, food, transport) – in Melbourne, indicative weekly rent is A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$50–A$70. The visa application charge is also separate. Always confirm current fees with AIP before applying. For guidance on OSHC, see our dedicated page.

Entry Requirements

International students must meet English language proficiency and academic entry standards. Indicative English requirement: IELTS 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may require a higher score for safety-sensitive trades. Prior qualifications: typically completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent (for Certificate III level). No specific prerequisite subjects, but numeracy and literacy skills are essential. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry – contact AIP for details. All applicants must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the Student visa. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA).

Work Component

This course has no mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Practical experience is not built into the curriculum, but AIP may offer optional industry placements – check with the provider. Note: work rights are separate from course requirements; you must focus on maintaining satisfactory course progress to retain your visa.

Delivery Locations

Certificate III in Carpentry is delivered at four campuses operated by Australian Institute of Professionals (AIP) Pty Ltd in Victoria: 42B Synnot Street – Werribee, VIC; Melbourne city campus – Level 1, 333 Queen St, Melbourne, VIC; Outer Northern Trade Training Centre (ONTTC) – Lalor, VIC; Queen Street Campus – Ground Floor, 333 Queen St, Melbourne, VIC 3000. All campuses are in Melbourne metropolitan area – a city with over 200,000 international students and excellent public transport. Werribee and Lalor are outer suburbs; Queen Street and Melbourne city campus are central. Each location provides workshop facilities for practical training. Living costs in Melbourne vary: inner city more expensive, outer suburbs more affordable. Consider commute and access to accommodation when choosing a campus.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: maintain full-time enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course; maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration; adhere to work limitations (48 hours per fortnight during term); and satisfy Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria. You must also demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents if applicable. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including tuition fee protection and access to complaints processes. For detailed visa guidance, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy provides general information only – not immigration advice.

How to Apply

Ready to start your carpentry career? Follow these steps:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to find providers offering Certificate III in Carpentry in Victoria. Filter by course level and location. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered and verified with the official register.

2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Once you've selected Australian Institute of Professionals (AIP) Pty Ltd, check entry requirements (English test, academic documents, application deadlines). Submit your application through AIP's website or admissions office.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): After acceptance, AIP will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and show evidence of funds. For step-by-step visa help, see our Student Visa guide.

Is Victoria Right for Your Carpentry Studies?

Victoria is home to over 200,000 international students and a thriving construction sector. Melbourne offers a diverse job market, with demand for qualified carpenters in residential and commercial projects. The city has numerous CRICOS-registered providers – around 40 in the building field alone. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney; average weekly rent for a single room in a shared house is A$250–A$350. Public transport is student-friendly with concession fares. However, consider that outer suburbs like Werribee and Lalor have lower rents but longer commutes. Victoria also has strong worker protections and a large network of trade unions. If you prefer a slightly smaller city with lower costs, Adelaide or Perth might also be options – but Victoria offers the most course choices for carpentry.

Ready to enrol? Apply to Australian Institute of Professionals (AIP) Pty Ltd now. For more information on this course, visit the provider's website.

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