Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS 109906H) at Bentley College Pty Ltd

Course Overview

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109906H) is a Certificate III delivered by Bentley College Pty Ltd over 1 year 3 months (~66 weeks). The course falls under the field of education 11 - Food, Hospitality and Personal Services, specifically 1101 - Food and Hospitality, with subject code 110109 - Cookery. The VET national code is SIT30821. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. The language of instruction is English, and the course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, totaling approximately 192 hours, providing practical industry experience. Bentley College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03914M) is a private provider based in Melbourne, Victoria. For current fee information, always visit the provider's website. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees; we are a free resource for international students.

What You'll Study

This qualification reflects the role of commercial cooks who work in kitchens where food is prepared and served. Students learn a range of cookery methods, kitchen management, food safety, and menu planning. The course covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to work in restaurants, hotels, clubs, and other commercial food establishments. Graduates typically develop competencies in preparing appetisers, main courses, and desserts, as well as understanding stock control, workplace hygiene, and team coordination. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the CRICOS-registered course ensures alignment with Australian industry standards. The practical component includes a work placement, giving you real-life experience in a professional kitchen environment.

Duration and Study Mode

The course duration is 1 year 3 months (~66 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. It is a single qualification, meaning you focus solely on this certificate without undertaking a combined or dual award. The mode of delivery typically includes classroom-based theory sessions, simulated kitchen practicals, and an industry placement. Bentley College Pty Ltd may offer flexible study arrangements — check directly with the provider for specific timetables. All CRICOS courses must meet minimum face-to-face hours to comply with student visa conditions.

Fees (Indicative)

Tuition for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Bentley College Pty Ltd is indicative at A$17,000. Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, and administration) are approximately A$2,500, giving an estimated total of A$19,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Bentley College Pty Ltd before applying. Additional costs not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (around A$21,041 per year for a single student as per Department of Home Affairs guidance), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$710). Melbourne's cost of living: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$200–$350, groceries A$70–$100, and public transport A$40–$60. These are guides only.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Entry requirements for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery are set by Bentley College Pty Ltd. Based on typical CRICOS-registered courses at this level, international students generally need to demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall. Additionally, applicants should have completed Year 11 or equivalent (Australian high school level). No prior cookery experience is usually required, but some providers may prefer basic numeracy and literacy skills. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet the direct entry standards — contact Bentley College for options. All requirements are subject to change; refer to the provider's website for the most current information.

Work Component

This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, with an approximate total of 192 hours (exact weekly hours not specified by the CRICOS register). The work-integrated learning takes the form of an industry placement or internship in a commercial kitchen. This practical experience allows you to apply classroom skills in a real workplace, build professional networks, and gain confidence. It is an integral part of the curriculum and must be completed to obtain the qualification. Bentley College Pty Ltd typically arranges placement opportunities with partner hospitality businesses in Melbourne. During this period, you remain enrolled and covered by ESOS protections.

Delivery Locations

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is delivered at the Swanston Street Campus: Level 4, 55 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 150,000 international students and more than 300 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is centrally located, close to public transport (trams, trains, buses) and surrounded by the city's famous food and hospitality scene. Studying cookery in Melbourne offers access to a diverse culinary industry, with many restaurants, cafes, and hotels providing work and placement opportunities. The city's cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney, but higher than regional areas.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

International students enrolling in CRICOS-registered courses like this one can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: you must maintain enrolment, attend at least 80% of scheduled classes, and meet course progress requirements. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (these conditions are subject to change by the Department of Home Affairs). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (may vary). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent for visa advice.

Is Melbourne Right for Your Cookery Studies?

Melbourne is widely regarded as Australia's food capital, with a thriving hospitality industry that offers abundant job opportunities for qualified cooks. The city hosts hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and hotels, from fine dining to casual eateries. International students benefit from multicultural environments, excellent public transport, and a wide range of student services. Melbourne's rental costs are typical for a capital city: expect to pay around A$200–$350 per week for a room in a shared apartment. The city has many CRICOS-registered providers, giving you options if you're comparing courses. However, consider that living costs are higher than in regional areas, and competition for entry-level jobs can be strong. If you enjoy a vibrant urban lifestyle and a dynamic food scene, Melbourne is an excellent choice for cookery studies.

How to Apply

Applying for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Bentley College Pty Ltd is straightforward. Follow these three steps:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's search tools to filter by course level, field, and city. Verify that Bentley College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03914M) meets your needs.

2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit Bentley College's website, review entry requirements, prepare your English test results (e.g., IELTS), academic transcripts, and any other documents. Submit your application before the deadline.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, Bentley will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.

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