Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (CRICOS course code 108837B) is a Certificate IV delivered by West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd over 30 weeks (~7 months). This course is designed for international students seeking to gain the skills and knowledge required to work as a dental assistant in Australia. It is classified under Field of Education 060703 - Dental Assisting, part of the Health sector. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03188C), West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd is approved to enrol overseas students, ensuring you receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. The course includes a mandatory work component of 6 weeks (135 hours), providing hands-on experience in a real dental setting. Located in the heart of Perth, Western Australia, this program offers a pathway into Australia's growing healthcare industry. With an indicative tuition fee of A$5,450 and additional costs of A$600, the estimated total is A$6,050 (excluding OSHC, living expenses, and visa application charge). HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
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The Certificate IV in Dental Assisting covers a range of competencies essential for supporting dentists and dental specialists during procedures. Students learn about infection control, radiography, oral health education, and practice management. The course also develops skills in patient care, communication, and teamwork within a dental practice. At this AQF Level 4, graduates are expected to work under supervision but with a degree of autonomy, performing tasks such as preparing dental materials, taking impressions, and assisting with complex treatments. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, typical topics include dental anatomy, chair-side assisting, instrument sterilisation, and first aid. This qualification is nationally recognised under the VET national code HLT45021, ensuring it meets Australian industry standards.
The course is delivered over 30 weeks (approximately 7 months) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the program is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at the provider's campus in Perth, with a combination of theoretical learning and practical sessions. The work component of 6 weeks (22.5 hours per week) is integrated into the course, meaning students spend part of their time in an industry placement. This structure allows international students to gain both classroom knowledge and real-world experience within a compact timeframe.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$5,450, with non-tuition fees of A$600 (application, materials, etc.), bringing the estimated total to A$6,050. Please note these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For the most current fee schedule, always check directly with West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd at their website. As a guide, international students in Perth should budget approximately A$400–A$600 per week for living costs, depending on lifestyle.
To enrol in Certificate IV in Dental Assisting, international students typically need an IELTS score between 5.0 and 5.5 overall (or equivalent English proficiency). This level assumes prior completion of Year 12 or equivalent, as Certificate IV is a post-secondary qualification. Some providers may also require previous study in health or science-related subjects. While this course does not include foundation studies, students who do not meet the English requirement may consider pathway programs offered by language schools or colleges. Always confirm specific entry criteria with West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd, as requirements can vary.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 6 weeks at 22.5 hours per week, totalling approximately 135 hours of supervised industry placement. This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically takes the form of a clinical placement in a dental practice, where students apply their skills under the guidance of experienced dental professionals. It provides invaluable hands-on experience, helping graduates transition smoothly into the workforce. For international students, such placements also offer exposure to Australian workplace culture and professional networking opportunities.
The course is delivered at Level 1, 160 Central Arcade, 811 Hay Street, Perth WA 6000. Located in the bustling central business district, this campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, buses, and the free CAT bus network. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is home to over 2 million people and hosts a diverse international student community. With a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, Perth offers a high quality of life with its sunny climate and access to beaches and parks. The city has numerous dental clinics and hospitals, providing ample opportunities for placements and future employment.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500), which allows full-time study and limited work rights. During term time, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight; during scheduled breaks, you can work unlimited hours. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you wish to work in Australia. However, HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for personalised advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Perth is an excellent choice for international students pursuing dental assisting. With over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering health-related courses, the city has a strong healthcare education sector. The demand for dental assistants is steady, supported by Western Australia's growing population and emphasis on oral health. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in eastern states: you can expect weekly rent of A$200–A$400 for shared accommodation, groceries around A$80–A$120, and a public transport concession ticket for students. The city's universities and private colleges also offer good support services for international students. When choosing this path, consider factors like course duration, placement opportunities, and proximity to dental clinics.
Ready to start your dental assisting career in Australia? Contact West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd for the latest fees and intake dates, or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
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Certificate IV in Dental Assisting is a CRICOS-registered programme at West Australian Institute of Further Studies 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.