Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping (CRICOS course code 110027G) is a Certificate IV delivered by Gordon Institute of TAFE over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification, with VET national code FNS40222, is designed for international students seeking foundational accounting and bookkeeping skills in Australia. The course falls under the field of Management and Commerce, specifically Accounting (080101). As a CRICOS-registered course at a government-owned TAFE institute, it meets the standards required for international student enrolment. Geelong, where the course is delivered, is a vibrant city in Victoria with a growing student population and lower living costs compared to Melbourne. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers Australia-wide offering more than 26,000 courses, this program provides a reliable pathway into the accounting profession. Prospective students should note that this is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation studies course, and has no mandatory work component. All fees shown are indicative, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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The Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping focuses on practical skills needed for entry-level accounting roles. Students learn to perform financial calculations, prepare business documents, process accounts payable and receivable, and use accounting software. The curriculum covers Australian accounting standards and tax requirements relevant to small to medium enterprises. Graduates at this level (AQF Level 4) typically gain competencies in financial record keeping, BAS preparation, payroll processing, and basic financial reporting. While the exact syllabus is set by Gordon Institute of TAFE, the course is designed to align with industry needs in management and commerce. This qualification is also a stepping stone toward higher-level accounting diplomas or professional certifications.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 26 weeks, approximately six months of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at the Geelong campus. The study mode is typically face-to-face, though Gordon Institute of TAFE may offer blended options. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$7,145, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$7,145. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by Gordon Institute of TAFE. They are subject to change. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees and any additional costs, always check the provider's website directly. OSHC is mandatory for all student visa holders. Living costs in Geelong are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly expenses around A$300–400 for accommodation, groceries, and transport.
International students typically need an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Academic entry requirements vary but generally expect completion of Australian Year 11 or equivalent overseas. Prior qualifications in accounting or business are not mandatory but may be advantageous. Gordon Institute of TAFE may offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always verify specific entry requirements with the provider. Meeting English and academic requirements does not guarantee admission; institutions assess applications holistically.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, while studying on a Student visa (Subclass 500), international students are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. The lack of a work component means the course is purely academic, but students can still seek part-time employment to support their living costs. Geelong has a diverse job market with opportunities in retail, hospitality, and administrative roles.
The only delivery location for this course is Gordon Institute of TAFe - GEELONG, located in Geelong, Victoria. Geelong is Victoria's second-largest city, with a population of over 250,000 and a significant student community. It offers a lower cost of living than Melbourne, with average rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$250–350 per week. The campus is accessible by public transport, including buses and trains from Geelong station. There are many CRICOS-registered providers in Geelong across different fields, making it a viable study destination.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include evidence of genuine temporary entrant (GTE), sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English proficiency standards. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. All CRICOS-registered courses comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring student protections. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised visa advice.
Geelong offers a balanced lifestyle with proximity to Melbourne (about an hour by train) but at a fraction of the cost. It has a growing international student population, supported by institutions like Gordon Institute of TAFE and Deakin University. The city is known for its waterfront, parks, and cultural events. For accounting students, local businesses provide part-time work opportunities. However, for those seeking a more metropolitan environment, Melbourne may be more suitable. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals when choosing your study location. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,000+ courses, so options are plentiful.
Follow this 3-step process to apply for Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping at Gordon Institute of TAFE: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Certificate IV), field (Accounting), and location (Geelong). Confirm that Gordon Institute of TAFE (CRICOS 00011G) meets your preferences. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet the entry requirements (English test scores, academic documents) and submit your application through the provider's admissions portal. Check application deadlines and required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Gordon Institute of TAFE will issue a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Ready to start your accounting journey? Explore more Certificate IV courses in Management and Commerce on HeadStart Academy.
Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping is a CRICOS-registered programme at Gordon Institute of TAFE. 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.