Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS course code 111783G) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks). This course is designed for international students seeking a career in general nursing (Field of Education 060301) and is registered on CRICOS under provider TAFE SA (CRICOS 00092B, Government). As a HeadStart Academy user, you can trust that this data comes directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). TAFE SA is a leading government provider in South Australia, offering high-quality vocational education. This page breaks down everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, work component, delivery locations, and the student visa process. HeadStart Academy is your free resource—no commissions, no referral fees—just accurate, up-to-date course information.
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Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS course code 111783G) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks). The field of education is 06 - Health, specifically 0603 - Nursing, 060301 - General Nursing. This course equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to practice as an enrolled nurse in Australia, under the supervision of a registered nurse. The program includes a work component of 10 weeks (approx. 400 total hours) providing hands-on clinical experience. TAFE SA is a government provider with multiple campuses in Adelaide, and all listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive quality education protected by the ESOS Act.
The Diploma of Nursing (VET national code HLT54121) covers core nursing competencies including anatomy and physiology, nursing practice, medication administration, mental health, and aged care. Students learn in both classroom and simulated clinical environments, with a strong focus on practical skills. Graduates typically seek employment in hospitals, aged care facilities, community health settings, and private clinics. This general nursing program is designed to meet the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) standards, but always verify specific licensing requirements with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
The course duration is 1 year 9 months (92 weeks on the CRICOS register). Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies). Delivery is full-time, on-campus at TAFE SA’s Adelaide City Campus and Gilles Plains Campus. Students should expect a combination of theoretical classes, laboratory simulations, and clinical placements. The course is designed for students who have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent.
Tuition fee: A$36,960 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total: A$36,960. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (approx. A$25,000–30,000 per year in Adelaide), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600) are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with TAFE SA at their website: http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international. Fees are subject to change.
English language requirement: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (no band less than 5.5) or equivalent. Academic requirement: Completion of Australian Year 12 (or equivalent) with passes in English and Maths/Science. Applicants may also need to meet specific subject prerequisites (e.g., biology). TAFE SA may offer pathway programs if you don't meet direct entry. Always refer to the provider’s website for exact entry criteria. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 10 weeks of clinical placement (approximately 400 total hours). This is typically unpaid and arranged by TAFE SA in healthcare settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities, or community health centres. It provides essential hands-on experience under supervision. Students are responsible for any associated costs (e.g., uniforms, police check, vaccinations). The work component is an integral part of the course and must be completed to graduate.
The Diploma of Nursing is offered at two TAFE SA campuses: Adelaide City Campus (ADELAIDE, SA) and Gilles Plains Campus (GILLES PLAINS, SA). Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia, with a population of about 1.3 million. The city has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent around A$250–350 for a shared apartment. Public transport (buses, trains, trams) connects both campuses to the city centre. Adelaide has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. You must meet the GTE requirement, have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year from October 2023), and OSHC. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while course is in session, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Dependants may also be eligible for work rights. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you complete at least 2 years of study. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Nursing at TAFE SA: 1. Research: Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered providers offering Diploma of Nursing in South Australia. 2. Apply Directly: Submit your application to TAFE SA through their international application portal. Provide academic transcripts, English test results, and meet entry requirements. Check application deadlines (usually months before start). 3. Receive CoE and Apply for Visa: Once accepted, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use it to apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Ensure you have OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Adelaide offers a welcoming environment for international students, with affordable living costs, a vibrant multicultural community, and beautiful beaches. The city has a strong healthcare sector, providing ample placement and job opportunities for nursing graduates. Adelaide is also home to several universities and TAFE campuses, with over 50 registered providers. Public transport is student-friendly, and the city is compact. However, if you prefer a larger city with more nightlife, you might consider Sydney or Melbourne. HeadStart Academy helps you explore options across all states.
Start your nursing career in Australia—compare Diploma courses on HeadStart Academy today.
Diploma of Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.