Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119357E) is a nationally recognised VET qualification delivered by Pacific College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking to enter the early childhood education sector in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 02668F), Pacific College Pty Ltd meets Australian Government standards for delivering courses to overseas students. The program covers foundational skills in child development, safety, and educational program design, preparing graduates for roles such as early childhood educator or assistant. Upon completion, students may pursue further study at Certificate IV or Diploma level. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource to help you compare CRICOS-registered courses. Data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers. All international students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
This course falls under the field of education (07) with a focus on teacher education: early childhood (070101). At Certificate III level (AQF Level 3), students develop practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to work in regulated children's services. Typical learning outcomes include understanding child development from birth to school age, creating inclusive learning environments, implementing approved learning frameworks, and supporting children's wellbeing. While specific unit details vary, graduates gain competencies aligned with the national CHC30121 training package. This qualification does not include a mandatory work component, but some providers may offer optional placements. For a complete syllabus, refer to Pacific College Pty Ltd directly. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for the current training plan.
The course is scheduled for 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or packaged course. Study modes may include face-to-face classes at Pacific College's campuses or a combination of online and in-person (blended). International students should ensure their student visa (Subclass 500) allows for the required full-time study load. CRICOS registration guarantees the course meets Australian standards for overseas students. If you need a different study duration, explore other Certificate III courses on HeadStart Academy.
The indicative tuition fee is A$16,000, with non-tuition fees of A$850, bringing the estimated total to A$16,850. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Pacific College Pty Ltd. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders and typically costs around A$600–A$1,000 per year depending on coverage. Living costs in New South Wales are estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student (Department of Home Affairs), covering rent, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Pacific College Pty Ltd before applying. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees or commissions.
For international students, English language proficiency is typically required at IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed Year 10 or equivalent Australian qualification. No specific foundation studies are included in this course, but Pacific College Pty Ltd may offer pathway options. Check the provider's website for detailed academic prerequisites and English test alternatives. All applicants must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for visa purposes. HeadStart Academy advises consulting the provider directly for the most accurate and current entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake an internship or work placement as part of the CRICOS-registered program. However, some voluntary industry exposure may be available at the provider's discretion. For visa work rights, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Pacific College Pty Ltd delivers this course at two campuses in New South Wales: Pacific College (Auburn) – RTO Operations, located in Auburn, and Pacific College Sydney City Campus, in Sydney's CBD. Auburn is a multicultural suburb about 20 km west of Sydney, with good train and bus connections to the city. Sydney, the state capital, is Australia's largest city with a student population exceeding 200,000. Living costs in Sydney are higher than regional areas: weekly rent for a shared apartment averages A$300–A$500, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$40–A$60. Both campuses are accessible via public transport. Choosing a location that suits your lifestyle and budget is important. HeadStart Academy's location guides can help you compare study destinations.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time course. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the latest visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers.** Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify that Pacific College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02668F) and course 119357E meet your goals. **Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution.** Prepare your documents: academic transcripts, English test results, passport, and personal statement. Check Pacific College's application deadlines and submit through their website. **Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500).** Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and evidence of funds.
New South Wales has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers offering education and training courses. Sydney alone has more than 20 providers specialising in early childhood education at various levels. Studying in NSW gives you access to a large early childhood sector with strong job prospects. Consider factors like campus location, cost of living, and support services. Pacific College Pty Ltd's Auburn and Sydney city campuses offer different urban experiences. Auburn is quieter and more affordable, while Sydney CBD provides networking opportunities. Living costs in Auburn are slightly lower than the city centre. HeadStart Academy's state guides provide detailed comparisons to help you decide.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Explore the course on HeadStart Academy and apply directly to Pacific College Pty Ltd.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Pacific 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.