Certificate III in Horticulture (CRICOS course code 113092G) is a Certificate III delivered by Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is registered on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3) and falls under the field of Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies, specifically Horticulture and Viticulture. Students who complete this course gain foundational skills in plant care, landscaping, and sustainable horticultural practices. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 03039E), it is available to international students planning to study in Australia on a Student visa (Subclass 500). Delivered in Adelaide's Rundle Mall, this program offers hands-on training in one of Australia's most liveable cities. HeadStart Academy provides this guide as a free resource—data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, and the ESOS Act protects your rights as an overseas student.
This course provides foundational training in horticulture, covering plant biology, soil management, pest control, and sustainable garden practices. Graduates develop skills for roles such as horticulturist, gardener, or landscape assistant. The program includes practical components in plant identification, pruning, and workplace safety. As an AQF Certificate III, it equips students with technical and supervisory skills appropriate for entry-level positions in the horticulture industry. The field of Horticulture and Viticulture (050301) is part of Australia's growing agricultural sector, with strong demand for skilled workers in landscaping, parks, and nurseries. Students will learn about Australian native plants, irrigation systems, and environmental sustainability. This foundation prepares graduates for further study at Certificate IV or diploma level.
This course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Full-time study is required to maintain compliance with Student visa conditions. Classes are held at the Rundle Mall Adelaide campus. Students are expected to attend approximately 20 hours of scheduled classes per week, with additional self-study time. The provider may offer flexible study options—check with Imperial Education Group for timetables.
Indicative fees from the CRICOS register: tuition A$14,250, non-tuition fees A$750, estimated total A$15,000. These fees are set by Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website: www.ironwood.edu.au. Note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included in this total. For a single student, OSHC costs approximately A$600–800 per year, and the Department of Home Affairs estimates living expenses at A$21,041 per year. Adelaide generally offers lower living costs than Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$300–400.
English language proficiency: IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent such as TOEFL iBT 35–46 or PTE 36–42). Academic requirements: completion of Year 10 or equivalent, as this is a Certificate III level. Some prior knowledge or experience in horticulture may be beneficial but is not mandatory. For students who do not meet the English requirement, the provider may offer pathway programs. Always confirm specific entry requirements with Imperial Education Group before applying, as they may have additional criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions, and students must ensure work does not interfere with their studies. The ESOS Act protects your right to a quality education, and working too many hours may breach visa conditions.
This course is delivered at Rundle Mall Adelaide, in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a vibrant, affordable city with a strong international student population—over 40,000 students from around the world study here. The campus is accessible by public transport (buses and trams) and is close to shops, cafes, and the Adelaide Botanic Garden, offering practical learning opportunities. Living costs in Adelaide are relatively low: average weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$300–400, groceries around A$80–120, and public transport A$30–50.
To study this course, you must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). Requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Horticulture), and location (Adelaide). Ensure the provider (Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd, CRICOS 03039E) meets your needs. 2. **Apply directly to Imperial Education Group** – Check entry requirements, prepare your English test score (IELTS 5.0-5.5), academic transcripts, and any other documents. Submit your application through the provider's website (www.ironwood.edu.au) before the deadline. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence and financial documents.
Remember to start the process early to allow time for visa processing.
Adelaide is an excellent choice for horticulture students. The city has a Mediterranean climate, ideal for studying plant growth and landscaping. With numerous parks, gardens, and a thriving wine region nearby, practical learning opportunities abound. The cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it easier to manage expenses. Adelaide's international student community is welcoming and diverse, with many support services. Consider factors like proximity to family, climate preferences, and career opportunities when deciding. HeadStart Academy offers location-specific guides to help you compare cities.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more Certificate III courses in Horticulture on HeadStart Academy or contact Imperial Education Group directly for current tuition fees and intake dates.
Certificate III in Horticulture is a CRICOS-registered programme at Imperial Education Group 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.