Diploma of Beauty Therapy (CRICOS course code 112281K) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This qualification is designed for students who want to develop advanced skills in beauty therapy, including facial treatments, body treatments, and salon management. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00092B), it meets Australian standards for international students. Located at TAFE SA's Adelaide City Campus, this program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application to prepare graduates for roles in beauty salons, spas, and related businesses. With Australia's strong beauty industry and Adelaide's affordable living costs, this course is an attractive option for international students. All institutions and courses listed on HeadStart Academy are verified against the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and every CRICOS-registered provider is bound by the ESOS Act, ensuring your educational rights are protected.
Diploma of Beauty Therapy (CRICOS course code 112281K) is a Diploma level qualification (AQF Level 5) in the field of Personal Services (11 - Food, Hospitality and Personal Services, subfield 110301 - Beauty Therapy). Delivered by TAFE SA, a government-owned provider, this course runs for 52 weeks (1 year). The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). The VET national code for this course is SHB50121. TAFE SA is a well-established public institution with multiple campuses across South Australia, and the Beauty Therapy course is offered at the Adelaide City Campus. This course does not include a mandatory work component, but students may seek part-time work under their student visa conditions. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00092B), it is approved for international student enrolment.
This Diploma of Beauty Therapy falls under the field of Personal Services (110301 Beauty Therapy). At this level, students typically learn advanced techniques in beauty therapy, including skin analysis, facial treatments, body massage, waxing, lash and brow treatments, and makeup application. The curriculum also covers salon management, client communication, and health and safety practices. Graduates are prepared for supervisory roles in beauty salons and spas, or to manage their own business. It's important to note that specific subjects are set by the provider – for a detailed syllabus, refer to TAFE SA's official course page. This qualification builds on Certificate IV-level skills and provides a pathway to higher-level management or specialised beauty therapy roles in Australia's growing personal services industry.
The course is delivered full-time over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification – there are no dual awards or foundation studies attached. Students should expect a combination of classroom learning and practical sessions. TAFE SA may offer part-time options, but for visa purposes, international students should maintain a full-time study load unless otherwise approved. The course is designed to be completed within the standard duration, but extensions may be possible under certain circumstances.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$18,825. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning there are no compulsory additional fees shown on the CRICOS register. However, students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. These are not included in the CRICOS fees. HeadStart Academy always advises checking the provider's website for the most current fee schedule, as fees are set by institutions and subject to change. TAFE SA's international fees page: http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international. As at April 2026, the estimated total is A$18,825, but always confirm directly before applying.
The CRICOS register indicates an English language requirement of IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). For this Diploma level, applicants are generally expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, or a relevant Certificate IV qualification. Additional prerequisites may include previous study in beauty therapy or related areas. Foundation or pathway options are available for students who do not meet direct entry – contact TAFE SA for details. All international applicants must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement as part of the student visa application. For precise entry criteria, always refer to the provider's official admissions page.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work must not compromise your study commitments. Adelaide offers a range of part-time job opportunities in hospitality, retail, and beauty services that may complement your studies.
The Diploma of Beauty Therapy is delivered at TAFE SA's Adelaide City Campus, located in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia, with a population of over 1.3 million people. It is known for its affordable living costs compared to Sydney and Melbourne. According to recent data, Adelaide has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. The city campus is well-served by public transport, including buses, trams, and trains, making it accessible from all parts of the city and suburbs. Students can expect a vibrant cultural scene, with many cafes, restaurants, and entertainment options. Living costs in Adelaide are relatively low – indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$150–A$250, groceries about A$80–A$120, and a public transport pass around A$30–A$40 per week. These are estimates only and actual costs vary.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your studies. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English language requirements. Student work rights are capped at 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses are covered by the ESOS Act, which protects your tuition fees and provides access to complaint handling. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for the Diploma of Beauty Therapy at TAFE SA is a straightforward three-step process:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Start by exploring courses on HeadStart Academy. Use filters for course level (Diploma), field (Personal Services), and location (South Australia) to find suitable options. Verify that the course is listed on the CRICOS register under provider 00092B. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Once you've selected this course, visit TAFE SA's international admissions page at http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international. Check the entry requirements (including English test scores and prior qualifications), prepare your documents (transcripts, passport, English test results), and submit your application by the deadline. You may also need to provide a personal statement. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, TAFE SA will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. You'll need to show evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Once granted, you can travel to Australia and start your studies.
Adelaide is a popular study destination known for its affordable living, friendly atmosphere, and quality education institutions. The city has a diverse student population, with over 40,000 international students from around the world. Public transport is efficient, and the city centre is walkable. For beauty therapy students, Adelaide offers a growing beauty and wellness industry with many salons and spas. The cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, allowing you to stretch your budget further. However, consider that Adelaide's climate is Mediterranean with hot summers and mild winters, and the city is less bustling than larger capitals. If you prefer a relaxed lifestyle with lower costs, Adelaide could be a great fit.
Ready to start your beauty therapy career? Explore this course on TAFE SA's website and apply today.
Diploma of Beauty Therapy 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.