Certificate III in Engineering - Technical (CRICOS course code 112001A) is a Certificate III delivered by TAFE SA over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification is designed for international students seeking foundational engineering skills in mechanical and industrial engineering. TAFE SA, a government-owned provider (CRICOS 00092B), offers hands-on training at its Adelaide campuses. As an entry-level engineering course, it prepares graduates for technician roles or further study. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses in Australia, this program is a practical step into the engineering field. The course covers core mechanical engineering concepts, workshop practices, and computer-aided drafting. Students benefit from TAFE SA's industry connections and modern facilities. All information on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy. This free resource helps you compare courses and providers without referral fees.
Certificate III in Engineering - Technical falls under the field of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (030701). Students learn fundamental engineering principles, including mechanical drawing, machining, welding, and quality assurance. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills for manufacturing and maintenance environments. Graduates typically gain competencies in interpreting technical drawings, performing measurements, using hand and power tools, and applying safety procedures. This level (AQF 3) prepares individuals for roles such as engineering technician, draftsperson, or maintenance fitter. The course also introduces computer-aided design (CAD) software, a key skill in modern engineering. TAFE SA's faculty brings real-world industry experience, and the program aligns with national training standards (VET national code MEM30522). As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the ESOS Act protects your tuition fees and ensures quality education. For specific syllabus details, always consult TAFE SA directly.
The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) full-time as listed on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at TAFE SA’s Adelaide campuses, which include modern workshops and computer labs. The intensive schedule allows completion within one semester. If you need additional English language support, TAFE SA offers pathway programs; contact them for options. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy visa conditions. HeadStart Academy notes that approximately 26,433 courses are available across Australia via CRICOS-registered providers, giving you many choices.
Tuition fees for Certificate III in Engineering - Technical are indicative at A$7,875, with non-tuition fees of A$0, totaling A$7,875. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by TAFE SA. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm with the provider at tafesa.edu.au/international. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC costs roughly A$500–700 per year. Living costs in Adelaide are estimated at A$1,500–2,000 per month (rent A$150–250/week, groceries A$80–150/week, transport A$50–70/week). These are guides only; actual expenses vary. Remember, ESOS protections apply to all listed providers, ensuring transparency in fee disclosures.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent). Academic requirements: completion of Year 10 or equivalent with satisfactory grades in mathematics and science. Some providers may require a pre-training assessment. TAFE SA will assess your qualifications on application. If you don't meet the English requirement, pathway programs (e.g., ELICOS) are available. Always verify entry criteria directly with TAFE SA. As HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend consulting a MARA agent for visa-specific advice. All entry requirements are set by the institution; the CRICOS register confirms the course is available to international students.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and commence after your course starts. Practical experience is not built into the curriculum, but you can seek part-time employment independently. Adelaide has a growing job market in manufacturing and engineering, offering opportunities for casual roles. Remember, your primary purpose is study; work must not interfere with your course. For more details, see our Student Visa Subclass 500 guide.
Certificate III in Engineering - Technical is delivered at two TAFE SA campuses in Adelaide, South Australia: - Regency Park Campus (REGENCY PARK, SA) - Tonsley Campus (CLOVELLY PARK, SA) Both locations are well-served by public transport (buses and trains). Regency Park is near the Grand Junction Road, while Tonsley is adjacent to the Tonsley Park railway station. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, has a population of about 1.3 million and a vibrant international student community of over 30,000. The city offers affordable living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. There are approximately 10 CRICOS-registered providers in Adelaide offering diverse courses. Studying in Adelaide gives you access to a clean, safe environment with excellent public transport and a central business district within easy reach. TAFE SA’s campuses feature modern engineering workshops and computer labs.
To study Certificate III in Engineering - Technical in Australia, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from TAFE SA, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, dependents), English proficiency (as per provider requirements), and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration. As a student visa holder, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during holidays. Dependents accompanying you may have work rights. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current visa conditions. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; for migration advice, consult a registered MARA agent. All listed courses are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your enrolment is valid for visa applications.
South Australia, particularly Adelaide, is a great choice for studying engineering. The state has a strong manufacturing and defence industry, with companies like BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin having operations. Adelaide is home to over 10 CRICOS-registered providers offering engineering courses from certificate to degree levels. The cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne: average rent for a shared room is A$150–250/week, groceries A$80–150/week, and public transport A$50–70/week (with student discounts). The climate is Mediterranean with hot summers and mild winters. Adelaide's public transport network (buses, trains, trams) provides easy access to campuses. International students often enjoy a balanced lifestyle with beaches, parks, and cultural events. TAFE SA’s locations in Regency Park and Tonsley are within 30 minutes of the city centre. If you're considering a career in mechanical or industrial engineering, this course offers a solid foundation in a supportive environment.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Engineering), and city (Adelaide). Confirm TAFE SA’s CRICOS registration (00092B) and the course code (112001A). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit TAFE SA’s international page (tafesa.edu.au/international) to check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application online with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, TAFE SA will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE requirements and have OSHC arranged. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
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Certificate III in Engineering - Technical 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.