Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS course code 114486C) is a Certificate III delivered by TAFE SA over 2 years. This course is designed for international students seeking hands-on skills in carpentry and joinery, with a work component of 10 weeks of industry placement. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00092B), TAFE SA is a government-owned institution delivering high-quality vocational education. Australia offers over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses like this one, and HeadStart Academy helps you navigate them. Whether you're aiming for a career in residential or commercial construction, this course provides the foundational skills recognised under the national VET code CPC30220. Located in Adelaide's Tonsley district, students benefit from modern facilities and strong industry connections. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is indicative only.
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Certificate III in Carpentry (CRICOS course code 114486C) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification in the field of Architecture and Building, specifically Carpentry and Joinery (Field of Education: 040311). Delivered by TAFE SA, a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (00092B), this 2-year course equips international students with practical skills in framing, formwork, and finishing. The course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks (400 hours) of industry placement, providing real-world experience under licensed tradespeople. With an indicative total fee of A$36,105 (no non-tuition fees charged by the provider), this course represents a significant investment in your future. TAFE SA is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, and all international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student welfare. For current fees and intake dates, always confirm directly with TAFE SA at tafesa.edu.au/international.
The Certificate III in Carpentry covers core competencies in Building and Construction, focusing on safe work practices, interpreting plans, and using carpentry tools. Students learn to construct wall frames, roofs, and stairs, as well as install doors, windows, and architraves. The course also covers workplace health and safety, sustainability practices, and communication skills. While specific elective units may vary, the qualification provides a broad foundation for careers in residential and commercial carpentry. This AQF Level 3 course is ideal for those with basic construction knowledge or with prior completion of a Certificate II in Building and Construction. Graduates may progress to Certificate IV in Building and Construction or pursue an apprenticeship pathway. The field of education (040311 - Carpentry and Joinery) is in demand across Australia, particularly in growing urban centres like Adelaide.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered face-to-face at TAFE SA's Tonsley Campus in Clovelly Park, SA, with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. The full-time schedule typically involves approximately 20 hours of classes per week, plus self-study and work placement. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. TAFE SA may offer flexible study options, but the CRICOS registration reflects the standard full-time duration. For detailed term dates, check the provider's website.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$36,105, with no non-tuition fees charged by TAFE SA, bringing the estimated total to A$36,105. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the Visa Application Charge (currently A$1,600). For a single student living in Adelaide, estimate A$400–500 per week for rent, food, and transport. Always consult TAFE SA's official website for the most current fees and payment options. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, fees are set by the provider and subject to annual review. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees; all data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) to enter Certificate III level study. Academic requirements usually include completion of Year 11 or equivalent in your home country. Prior construction experience or a related Certificate II may be beneficial but is not always mandatory. TAFE SA may assess individual applications for alternative entry pathways. If you do not meet English requirements, consider enrolling in an ELICOS (English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students) program first. Foundation studies are not part of this course, but TAFE SA offers pathway programs — contact the provider directly for details. Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers like TAFE SA can enrol international students, and entry requirements are set by the institution.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks' duration, totalling approximately 400 hours (40 hours per week). This work-integrated learning typically takes the form of an industry placement with a licensed carpentry contractor or construction company. It provides practical experience in real job sites, allowing you to apply classroom skills under supervision. Work placements are arranged as part of the course, but you may also source your own with provider approval. During placement, you are covered by the provider's insurance and ESOS protections. This component not only enhances your resume but also helps you build industry contacts in South Australia. To comply with Student visa conditions, ensure your placement does not exceed allowed work hours (48 hours per fortnight during term).
This course is delivered at TAFE SA's Tonsley Campus located in Clovelly Park, a southern suburb of Adelaide, South Australia. The campus is part of the Tonsley Innovation District, a hub for advanced manufacturing and trades. Adelaide is known for its affordable living costs and vibrant student community, with over 30,000 international students across the city. Public transport to Tonsley is convenient via the Tonsley train line and local buses. The campus features modern workshops and simulation labs. Studying in South Australia offers a relaxed lifestyle, lower rents compared to Sydney or Melbourne (average weekly rent A$350–500), and excellent work rights during study. With over 500 CRICOS-registered providers in SA, you have ample choice, but TAFE SA remains a top government provider.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs, and English proficiency meeting the provider's requirements. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (every two weeks) while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and make satisfactory course progress. After course completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you graduate with a qualification in an occupation on the skilled occupation list — carpentry is often eligible. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Carpentry at TAFE SA: **1. Research CRICOS-registered providers:** Use HeadStart Academy to compare course levels, fields, and locations. Ensure your chosen course is CRICOS-registered — all courses on our site are. **2. Apply directly to your chosen institution:** Check entry requirements (English test scores, academic history) and application deadlines on TAFE SA's international student portal. Submit your application with supporting documents. **3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500):** Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE via eCOE system. Lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, attaching OSHC evidence and financial documents. Always start early as processing times vary.
South Australia offers a unique study environment with a lower cost of living compared to eastern capitals. Adelaide has a growing construction sector, meaning carpentry graduates may find opportunities in residential building and infrastructure projects. The state has over 10,000 international students and is known for its friendly atmosphere and cultural festivals. Consider factors like climate (mediterranean with hot summers), public transport accessibility, and proximity to job markets. The Tonsley Campus is well-connected, and the state government provides support services for international students. However, if you prefer a larger city with more diverse industries, consider Melbourne or Sydney. Each state has its own lifestyle and job prospects; weigh these when choosing your study destination.
Ready to start your carpentry journey? Explore TAFE SA's official page or use HeadStart Academy to compare other CRICOS-registered courses.
Certificate III in Carpentry 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.