Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (CRICOS course code 109361C) is a Certificate IV delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission (TAFE NSW) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for international students seeking a career in dental healthcare, providing the skills to assist dentists during procedures, manage infection control, and support patient care. As a government-owned provider, TAFE NSW is CRICOS-registered (00591E), ensuring the highest quality standards. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. This page covers everything you need to know about this course: fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa pathways. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (CRICOS 109361C) is a vocational qualification at AQF Level 4, falling under the field of Dental Studies (060703). It prepares graduates to work as dental assistants in private practices, public clinics, or specialist offices. The course covers chair-side assisting, radiography, infection control, and patient management. TAFE NSW delivers this program at their Randwick campus in Sydney, a vibrant hub for international students. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets ESOS Act protections, ensuring your rights as an overseas student are safeguarded.
This Certificate IV focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of dental assisting. Students learn how to prepare treatment rooms, sterilise instruments, take dental radiographs, and assist with complex procedures. Communication with patients and dental practitioners is a key component. While the specific syllabus is set by TAFE NSW, typical learning outcomes include understanding oral anatomy, dental materials, and workplace health and safety. Graduates are eligible to work under the supervision of dentists and may pursue further studies in dental hygiene or therapy.
The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months), as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is in English, and the program is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no foundation studies component. Students should plan for full-time study to meet visa requirements. Classes are held at the TAFE NSW Randwick campus, with access to modern dental facilities and simulation labs.
Tuition fees for Certificate IV in Dental Assisting are set by Technical and Further Education Commission at A$14,200 for the full 26 weeks. There are no non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, so the estimated total is A$14,200. Note: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living in Sydney requires budgeting for rent (approx. A$450–A$600/week), groceries (A$80–A$120/week), and public transport (A$40–A$60/week). Always confirm current fees on the TAFE NSW international website, as fees are indicative and subject to change.
Applicants typically need IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. For a Certificate IV, you may need prior completion of Year 12 or an equivalent Certificate III qualification. TAFE NSW may also assess prior learning or work experience. Foundation or pathway programs are available if you don't meet direct entry—contact the provider for details. All international students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, while studying on a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help gain practical experience in Australia's dental industry.
Certificate IV in Dental Assisting is delivered at TAFE NSW Randwick in Sydney, NSW. Randwick is a well-connected suburb with easy access to the city via bus and light rail. Sydney hosts a large international student population (over 200,000) and numerous CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs are higher than the national average, but the city offers diverse opportunities for cultural and professional growth.
International students need a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. You must provide evidence of enrolment (CoE), OSHC, financial capacity, and genuine temporary stay. While studying, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. After completing this course, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for visa advice.
New South Wales is a popular study destination with strong employment prospects in healthcare. Sydney's dental industry is growing, with demand for qualified assistants. Consider living costs: rent in Randwick averages A$500/week, and public transport is efficient. The weather is temperate, perfect for exploring the city. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers in NSW alone, you have many options. This course at TAFE NSW offers government-backed quality and a pathway to local employment.
Follow these three steps to begin your journey: (1) Research CRICOS-registered providers for Certificate IV in Dental Assisting—HeadStart Academy lists all verified courses. (2) Apply directly to Technical and Further Education Commission (TAFE NSW) via their international admissions page, ensuring you meet entry requirements and submit English test scores and academic documents. (3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. TAFE NSW will guide you through the process.
Ready to start your dental assisting career? Explore Certificate IV in Dental Assisting on HeadStart Academy and connect with TAFE NSW today.
View the full Technical and Further Education Commission profile →
Certificate IV in Dental Assisting is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. 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.