Certificate III in Financial Services (CRICOS course code 110038D) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian College of Trade Pty Ltd over 50 weeks (~12 months). This nationally recognised qualification (FNS30122) is designed for individuals seeking foundational skills in the financial services industry, including banking, insurance, and customer service roles. The course is offered in Melbourne, Victoria, at three convenient locations: ACOT Bourke Street, ACOT Melbourne CBD, and Thornbury. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the Australian Government's quality standards for international students. By choosing this course, you'll gain practical knowledge and skills that can lead to entry-level positions or further study in management and commerce.
Certificate III in Financial Services (CRICOS course code 110038D) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) delivered by Australian College of Trade Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03082B) over 50 weeks (~12 months). This qualification sits within the field of Management and Commerce (08), specifically Banking, Finance and Related Fields (0811). It is designed to equip students with the fundamental competencies required in the financial services sector, including processing financial transactions, delivering customer service, and applying basic financial products knowledge. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), the course has no work component and is taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation studies program. The course is available at three Melbourne locations, making it accessible to international students living in or planning to relocate to Victoria.
As a Certificate III in Financial Services, this course covers essential topics in banking, finance, and related fields. Students typically learn how to handle financial transactions, communicate effectively in a financial services environment, comply with regulatory requirements, and use financial software. The curriculum aligns with the VET national code FNS30122 and is designed to develop skills in areas such as customer service, data entry, and basic financial analysis. While the exact syllabus is set by Australian College of Trade Pty Ltd, graduates of this level are generally prepared for roles like customer service officer, accounts clerk, or insurance assistant. The course also provides a pathway to higher qualifications, such as a Certificate IV or Diploma in Financial Services.
The Certificate III in Financial Services is offered on a full-time basis over 50 weeks, which equates to approximately 12 months of study. This duration is confirmed on the CRICOS register and includes scheduled holidays. The language of instruction is English, and there is no work component attached to this course. It is a single qualification, meaning it does not combine with other courses or include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at one of the three delivery locations in Melbourne. The course structure typically involves a mix of classroom-based learning, practical exercises, and assessments. International students should be prepared for a full-time study commitment of around 20 hours per week plus self-study.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire 50-week program is A$9,000, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$9,000. However, this amount excludes several essential costs: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students; living expenses such as rent, groceries, and transport (budget around A$1,500–2,000 per month in Melbourne); and the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500), currently A$1,600. Always confirm current fees directly with Australian College of Trade Pty Ltd through their official website, as fees are subject to change. The provider may also charge additional fees for materials or services not included in the tuition.
For international students, a minimum IELTS score of 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent English proficiency test) is typically expected. For Certificate III level, applicants are generally required to have completed Year 11 or equivalent in their home country. No prior financial services experience is necessary, but a strong interest in the field is beneficial. Some students may enter via foundation or pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements. It is essential to confirm specific entry criteria with Australian College of Trade Pty Ltd before applying. As a CRICOS-registered provider, the institution must ensure students have the academic and English skills to succeed.
No work component is associated with this course. This means there is no mandatory internship, placement, or work experience required to complete the qualification. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain practical experience and supplement their income while studying. The absence of a compulsory work component may appeal to students who prefer to focus solely on their studies or arrange their own work opportunities.
The course is delivered at three locations in Melbourne, Victoria: ACOT Bourke Street (Level 4, 380 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000), ACOT Melbourne CBD (Suite 1, Lvl 9, 190 Queen Street, Melbourne VIC), and Lvls 1 & 2, 851-859 High Street, Thornbury VIC 3070. Melbourne is a vibrant multicultural city with over 200,000 international students and more than 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers. The campuses are well-served by public transport, including trams and trains, making commuting easy. Thornbury is a northern suburb with a lively atmosphere and lower living costs compared to the CBD. Students can choose the location that best suits their accommodation and lifestyle preferences.
International students wishing to study this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian College of Trade Pty Ltd, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English proficiency evidence. Once granted, the visa allows work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All international students are required to maintain OSHC for the duration of their stay. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; for visa assistance, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for the Certificate III in Financial Services at Australian College of Trade Pty Ltd involves three simple steps. Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Certificate III), field (Management and Commerce), and location (Melbourne) to confirm this course suits your goals. Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution – visit the Australian College of Trade website, check entry requirements, prepare your academic documents and English test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5), and submit your application before the deadline. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, use the CoE to lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you also arrange OSHC and funds for living costs.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a thriving international student community. Over 200,000 international students choose Melbourne each year, attracted by its excellent education institutions, diverse culture, and strong job market in sectors like finance and services. The cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney: indicative weekly expenses include A$200–350 for rent (shared accommodation), A$60–80 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport. All three campuses are well-connected, and the city offers ample part-time work opportunities in retail, hospitality, and administrative roles. Studying in Melbourne also gives you access to events, networking, and career services through the provider.
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Certificate III in Financial Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of Trade 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.