Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 115474K) is a Certificate IV delivered by Sunbeam International College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification equips you with the skills to provide person-centred care to older people in residential, home, and community settings. As Australia's population ages, demand for qualified ageing support workers continues to grow, making this course a strategic choice for international students seeking meaningful employment and potential permanent residency pathways. HeadStart Academy, a free resource for international students, provides detailed insights into this CRICOS-registered course to help you make an informed decision.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 115474K) is a Certificate IV level qualification (AQF Level 4) offered by Sunbeam International College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03951F), a private provider with campuses in Adelaide and Sydney. The course sits under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '090507 - Care for the Aged', and carries the VET national code CHC43015. It is designed to prepare students for roles such as aged care supervisor, team leader, or case coordinator. The program includes a mandatory 120-hour work placement, ensuring graduates have practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. Sunbeam International College is a CRICOS-registered provider, meaning it meets Australian Government standards for delivering courses to international students. All 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offer over 26,433 courses, and this qualification is one of many pathways to a career in Australia's growing aged care sector.
This course focuses on the human welfare field, specifically care for the aged. You will learn to develop and implement individualised care plans, manage complex care situations, and support the well-being of older people. Topics typically include legal and ethical compliance, dementia care, palliative approaches, and leadership in aged care. The course also covers communication strategies, cultural safety, and working with diverse populations. At AQF Level 4, graduates are expected to apply knowledge and skills in a range of contexts, demonstrating autonomy and responsibility. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the course aligns with national competency standards under CHC43015.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and this is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Study modes may include face-to-face classroom sessions, online components, and practical placement. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
Tuition fees for Certificate IV in Ageing Support (115474K) are A$14,000 indicatively, with non-tuition fees of A$1,200, bringing the estimated total to A$15,200. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the student visa application charge are not included. Living costs in Adelaide (home to two campuses) are estimated at around A$450–A$600 per week for rent, food, and transport. In Sydney's Burwood campus area, weekly costs are higher, around A$550–A$750. Always confirm current fees directly with Sunbeam International College at sunbeam.edu.au.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) for this level. Applicants should have completed Year 12 or an equivalent qualification, and some providers may require prior study in a health or community services field. HeadStart Academy recommends checking specific entry requirements with Sunbeam International College, as they may have additional prerequisites. For students who do not meet these, foundation or pathway options may be available – consult the provider directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks at 30 hours per week (approximately 120 total hours). This is an industry placement (also known as a clinical placement or practical placement) in an aged care facility or community setting. The placement allows you to apply classroom learning in a real-world environment under supervision, which is critical for building competence and confidence in aged care. It also helps meet the qualification requirements and can lead to employment opportunities post-graduation.
Sunbeam International College delivers this course at three locations: Adelaide Campus (ADELAIDE, SA), Burwood Campus (BURWOOD, NSW), and Young St. Campus (ADELAIDE, SA). Adelaide is a vibrant capital city with a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney, making it popular among international students. The city has over 50,000 international students and excellent public transport connecting its suburbs. Burwood, a suburb of Sydney, offers proximity to the city's vast job market and multicultural community. Both states have numerous aged care facilities, providing ample placement and job opportunities. When choosing a campus, consider living costs, climate, and lifestyle preferences.
To study this course as an international student in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to your visa conditions. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents. HeadStart Academy provides general visa guidance, but for specific advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. Remember, the ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including tuition fee protection.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to find Certificate IV in Ageing Support courses like this one. Filter by level, field, and city to compare options. Ensure your chosen course and provider are on the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Sunbeam International College (sunbeam.edu.au) to submit your application. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and entry requirements carefully. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application. Include your OSHC policy, Genuine Temporary Entrant statement, and evidence of financial capacity. Processing times vary, so apply early.
Visit Sunbeam International College's website (sunbeam.edu.au) for the latest fees, intake dates, and to apply.
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Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sunbeam International College 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.