Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119594C) is a Certificate III delivered by Iascend Polytechnic Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification, with VET national code CHC30125, equips students with the skills to work in early childhood settings, supporting children's learning and development. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 02961A), Iascend Polytechnic is listed on the official Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, ensuring quality standards and student protections under the ESOS Act. This course is ideal for international students seeking a pathway into the Australian early childhood education sector. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. The indicative tuition fee is A$9,500, with additional non-tuition fees of A$100, bringing the estimated total to A$9,600. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application fees are not included. Graduates may pursue roles such as early childhood educator or continue further study.
This course belongs to the field of Education (07), specifically Teacher Education (0701) and Early Childhood Education (070101). At Certificate III level, students gain foundational knowledge in child development, health and safety, play-based learning, and inclusive practices. The curriculum aligns with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. Graduates learn to design and implement activities that foster children's physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. The course may cover topics such as supporting children's wellbeing, responding to children at risk, and working effectively in an early childhood context. Upon completion, graduates can work in long day care, family day care, or preschools. This qualification also provides credit towards a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, enabling further career progression.
The course is scheduled for 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification – not a dual or foundation studies program. The course includes a mandatory work component (see below). Delivery is face-to-face at the provider's campuses in Victoria. Students are expected to attend classes and complete assessments as per the provider's academic calendar.
Indicative fees as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026): Tuition fee A$9,500, non-tuition fee A$100, estimated total A$9,600. These are subject to change – always confirm current fees directly with Iascend Polytechnic at www.mcfe.com.au. Additional costs not included in the estimated total: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$500–700 per year for single cover; living expenses – the Department of Home Affairs indicates A$21,041 per year; and the Student visa application charge – currently A$1,600. Course fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register – fees are set by institutions and subject to change.
General English requirement: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Some providers may require a Working with Children Check or other prerequisites. If you do not meet the English requirement, you may be able to enrol in an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) first – check with the provider. Foundation or pathway options are available; refer to Iascend Polytechnic for specific entry requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly for the most up-to-date information.
Yes – the course includes a work-integrated learning component of 40 weeks at 8 hours per week (approximately 300 total hours). This typically involves an industry placement in an early childhood setting such as a childcare centre, preschool, or long day care. Under supervision, students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world practice, developing skills in caring for children, planning activities, and working in a team. Placements are arranged by the provider and may require a police clearance, Working with Children Check, or immunisation records. This practical experience is assessed and is integral to meeting the vocational competencies of CHC30125.
The course is delivered at two locations: Alpine View CC in Bright, Victoria, and Unit 39, 617–643 Spencer Street in West Melbourne, Victoria. Bright is a town in the Alpine region with a rural lifestyle, while West Melbourne is close to the Melbourne CBD with excellent public transport. Victoria is home to over 130 CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood education courses. Living costs vary: in Melbourne, indicative weekly rent for a room is A$250–400, plus groceries A$80–150 and public transport A$40–60; in regional Bright, costs are generally lower. Consider your budget and preferred study environment when choosing a location.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time CRICOS-registered course. Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS course, attend at least 80% of scheduled classes, and meet course progress requirements. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your stay, and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Victoria has a strong demand for qualified early childhood educators, with government initiatives supporting the sector. Melbourne offers diverse study environments, while regional areas like Bright provide a quieter pace. Consider the cost of living: Melbourne is one of Australia's more expensive cities, whereas regional Victoria is more affordable. Proximity to campuses, public transport, and part-time work opportunities should factor into your decision. Victoria also has many providers, so you can compare courses. Ensure your chosen provider is CRICOS-registered to guarantee quality and student protections under the ESOS Act.
Applying for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Iascend Polytechnic Pty Ltd involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare early childhood education courses. Ensure the provider (CRICOS 02961A) and course (119594C) are registered. 2. Apply directly to Iascend Polytechnic: Check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts and English test results (e.g., IELTS), and meet application deadlines. Visit www.mcfe.com.au for application forms. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Apply for the visa online via the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and financial evidence.
Start your journey today. Visit Iascend Polytechnic Pty Ltd's website at www.mcfe.com.au to learn more or apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 119594C).
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Iascend Polytechnic 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.