Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 111075B) is a Certificate III delivered by MARS INSTITUTE PTY LTD over 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks). This qualification, with VET national code AUR30620, is designed for individuals who want to become qualified light vehicle mechanics. It covers diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining light vehicles such as cars, vans, and 4WDs. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 04056G), international students can study this program on a Student visa (Subclass 500) at the Port Melbourne campus in Victoria. MARS INSTITUTE PTY LTD is one of over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards and ESOS Act protections.
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This course falls under the field of education '03 - Engineering and Related Technologies', specifically '0305 - Automotive Engineering and Technology' and '030503 - Vehicle Mechanics'. At Certificate III level (AQF Level 3), students develop practical and theoretical skills in light vehicle mechanical technology. Typical learning outcomes include interpreting technical manuals, using diagnostic equipment, servicing engines, transmissions, braking systems, and electrical components. Graduates are prepared for roles as light vehicle mechanics or automotive technicians. Note that the specific syllabus is set by MARS INSTITUTE PTY LTD; contact the provider for detailed subject outlines. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering VET courses, with Victoria home to hundreds of automotive programs.
The course duration is 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students typically study full-time on campus. The CRICOS register confirms all course details, including duration, which is a key factor for visa applications. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee is A$25,000, with non-tuition fees of A$3,000, making an estimated total of A$28,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by MARS INSTITUTE PTY LTD. Fees are subject to change - always confirm directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne, Victoria, are estimated at around A$500-700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. For the most current fee schedule, visit the MARS Institute website.
General entry requirements for Certificate III level courses typically include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. For international students, an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent) is commonly required. MARS INSTITUTE PTY LTD may have specific academic prerequisites and English language tests. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry - refer to the provider. Always verify entry requirements directly with MARS Institute, as they are set by the institution and subject to change.
This course has no mandatory work component according to the CRICOS register. The register explicitly states 'No work component', meaning there is no embedded internship or placement. However, students on a Student visa may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are a feature of the Student visa (Subclass 500), not part of the course.
The course is delivered at Unit 5, 200 Turner Street, PORT MELBOURNE VIC 3207. Port Melbourne is a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, with good public transport connections to the city centre via tram and bus. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 200,000 international students and numerous CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate, with weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200-350, groceries A$80-150, and public transport capped at A$10 per day. The campus location offers access to automotive workshops and industry networks in Victoria's automotive sector.
International students study this course on a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain this visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and hold a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from MARS INSTITUTE PTY LTD. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the visa duration. Visa conditions also require satisfactory course progress. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, providing tuition fee protection and access to complaints processes. Note: This is general guidance - consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalized advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology at MARS INSTITUTE PTY LTD:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. MARS Institute (CRICOS 04056G) is a private provider based in Victoria.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check the entry requirements, including English language tests (IELTS 5.0-5.5) and academic qualifications. Submit your application through MARS Institute's online portal or agent network. Deadlines vary - apply early.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, MARS Institute will issue a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, providing evidence of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement. Processing times vary; plan ahead.
Victoria has a strong automotive industry, with Melbourne being a hub for vehicle manufacturing and repair. However, the industry is evolving with electric and hybrid vehicles. Studying light vehicle mechanics in Port Melbourne gives access to local workshops and dealerships. Consider the practical nature of this trade: hands-on skills are critical, and the course duration of nearly two years allows for deep learning. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than regional areas but offer more employment opportunities. Also, check if the qualification leads to a licensed mechanic pathway in Australia. Always verify that the provider is CRICOS-registered - this ensures quality and visa eligibility.
Ready to start your journey as a light vehicle mechanic? Explore more courses at HeadStart Academy or apply directly to MARS INSTITUTE PTY LTD.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at MARS INSTITUTE 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.