Are you an international student interested in becoming a light vehicle mechanic in Australia? The Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 112261C) is a Certificate III delivered by NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD over 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks). This program equips you with the skills to diagnose, repair, and maintain light vehicles such as cars and small trucks. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian quality standards and is available to international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500). Graduates can pursue roles as automotive service technicians or continue with further study. With campuses in Haymarket (Sydney) and South Melbourne, you'll study in two of Australia's largest cities, known for their vibrant student communities and strong transport links. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Trust HeadStart Academy to guide your study choices.
The Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS 112261C) is a nationally recognised qualification (AQF Level 3) in the field of Automotive Engineering and Technology. Delivered by NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD (CRICOS 04096K), a private registered training organisation, this course prepares students for work in the automotive service and repair industry. The curriculum covers engine repair, suspension systems, braking systems, electrical components, and diagnostic procedures. Students gain hands-on experience through simulated workshop environments. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protections, ensuring international students have legal rights regarding course quality, refunds, and support. This course is ideal for those seeking a trade career in Australia.
This qualification falls under the field of Engineering and Related Technologies (broad field 03) and specifically Automotive Engineering and Technology (narrow field 0305). Graduates at this AQF Level 3 typically develop skills in diagnosing and repairing light vehicle mechanical and electrical systems. They learn to use diagnostic equipment, interpret technical manuals, and follow workplace health and safety procedures. The course emphasises practical competencies such as servicing engines, replacing brakes, and conducting routine inspections. While specific unit titles are determined by the provider, students can expect a balanced mix of theory and hands-on workshops. This training aligns with the national AUR training package (AUR30620) and prepares students for the Automotive Industry Standards.
The course is structured over 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or packaged program. There is no mandatory work component embedded in the course. Students are expected to attend classes at either the Quay Street campus in Haymarket, NSW or the South Melbourne campus in VIC. The typical study load is full-time, which meets Student visa conditions requiring a minimum of 20 hours per week of scheduled contact time. The provider may offer a mix of classroom theory and practical demonstrations. International students should plan for intensive study periods and self-directed learning.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$32,000, with non-tuition fees of A$200, giving an estimated total of A$32,200. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD. Please note that these fees are indicative only and subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's official website. Living costs vary by city: in Sydney, weekly rent averages A$300–500, while Melbourne is slightly lower at A$250–450. Refer to our OSHC guide for health cover options. The ESOS Act ensures your fees are protected if the provider ceases operations.
International students typically require an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for entry into Certificate III courses. You should have completed Year 12 or equivalent in your home country. Prior experience in automotive studies is beneficial but not mandatory. Some providers may require a pre-training assessment or interview. For specific entry criteria, contact NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD directly. If your English level is below the requirement, consider a foundation or pathway program. Always check the provider's current requirements, as they can change. HeadStart Academy does not determine admissions – we recommend you consult a registered migration agent for visa eligibility advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. This work can provide valuable industry exposure. The course itself focuses on practical training within the provider's workshops. If you seek a job in automotive, consider part-time roles in car dealerships or service centres. For visa work conditions, always refer to the Department of Home Affairs. The ESOS Act ensures your study rights are protected.
The course is delivered at two campuses of NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD: Quay Street in Haymarket, New South Wales (Sydney CBD) and South Melbourne, Victoria. Haymarket is adjacent to Sydney's central business district, surrounded by cultural sites, shops, and transport hubs. South Melbourne is a short tram ride from Melbourne's CBD, known for its markets and student-friendly environment. Both cities have over 100,000 international students each, with extensive public transport networks. Sydney has over 500 CRICOS-registered providers, Melbourne over 450. Living costs: Sydney slightly higher. Studying in either city offers excellent opportunities for work, networking, and lifestyle.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Your student visa allows work of up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The course duration of 92 weeks will determine your visa length. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the requirements. Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent—consult a MARA-registered agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in this course at NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (04096K). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet entry requirements (English test, academic transcripts), prepare documents, and submit an application before the deadline. The provider will assess your eligibility. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE, which is required for the visa application. Gather financial evidence, OSHC, and GTE statement. Lodge online via the Department of Home Affairs. Allow processing time.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more courses at HeadStart Academy or contact National Polytechnic of Australia directly.
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Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA 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.