Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119569D) is a Certificate III delivered by Canberra Institute of Technology over 1 year. This qualification, listed on the Australian Government's CRICOS register, provides foundational skills for working in early childhood education settings. As a CRICOS-registered course at a government TAFE institution, it meets the requirements for international student visas and is designed to prepare graduates for entry-level roles such as early childhood educator or assistant. The course combines theoretical learning with practical work placement, giving students hands-on experience in real childcare environments. Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is an accredited provider with CRICOS code 00001K, ensuring quality education and student support services under the ESOS Act protections.
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This course sits within the field of education, specifically teacher education for early childhood (070101). At Certificate III level (AQF Level 3), students gain practical skills in caring for children, supporting their development, and working effectively in a team. Typical learning areas include child development, health and safety, fostering creativity, and communicating with families. Graduates are prepared to work in long day care centres, family day care, or preschools. The course follows the nationally endorsed training package CHC30125, ensuring consistent learning outcomes across Australia.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Students attend classes at the CIT campus in Bruce, ACT, and also complete a mandatory work component. Study may involve a mix of classroom learning, online activities, and practical sessions.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$16,980, plus non-tuition fees of A$223, giving an estimated total of A$17,203. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. Living costs in Canberra are approximately A$350–A$500 per week for rent, groceries, and transport combined. Always confirm current fees and charges directly with Canberra Institute of Technology at https://international.cit.edu.au/ before applying.
International students typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed Year 10 or equivalent (AQF Level 2 or higher) to meet the entry requirements for Certificate III studies. Some providers may also require a Working with Vulnerable People check. For specific academic and English language requirements, refer to Canberra Institute of Technology's entry criteria, as they may set higher standards. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements – consult the provider for options.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 6 weeks of industry placement, with 42 hours per week, totalling approximately 252 hours. The placement provides real-world experience in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. Under supervision, students apply their learning in caring for children, planning activities, and supporting development. This work-integrated learning is a crucial part of the qualification and helps students build a professional network.
The course is delivered at Canberra Institute of Technology - Vowels Crescent, BRUCE, in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Canberra is Australia's capital city with a population of over 450,000. It has a vibrant student community, home to several universities and over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 500 courses. Public transport via buses and light rail connects the campus to the city centre and suburbs. Living costs in Canberra are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent A$250–A$400 for shared accommodation.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on a full-time basis. Key visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory attendance and academic progress, and valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your visa application must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refund safeguards. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA agent) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Canberra Institute of Technology: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register to verify that Canberra Institute of Technology (CRICOS 00001K) is an approved provider and that course 119569D is listed. HeadStart Academy offers a free search tool to filter by course level, field, and city. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to CIT via their international admissions portal. You'll need to provide transcripts, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 5.0–5.5), and any required documents. Check application deadlines and intake dates for this course. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once CIT issues a CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy cannot provide visa assistance – always use official channels.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered early childhood courses on HeadStart Academy or directly visit Canberra Institute of Technology's website.
All Certificate III courses in Australian Capital Territory →
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Canberra Institute of Technology. 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.