Penfold College Pty Ltd (CRICOS provider code 03946C) is a private CRICOS-registered provider offering 20 active courses to international students. Based in Melbourne, Victoria, this institution delivers a range of vocational and higher education qualifications across multiple fields including management, commerce, education, engineering, and society and culture. As a private provider registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), Penfold College must meet strict Australian Government standards to enrol international students. This includes compliance with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which protects international students’ rights. Whether you are looking to start a Certificate III or progress to a Graduate Diploma, Penfold College provides pathways for study in one of Australia’s most vibrant student cities. With a total CRICOS-registered capacity of 720 students and all courses delivered at its Melbourne campus, the college offers a focused, urban study experience. International students benefit from Melbourne’s diverse student population, excellent public transport, and a cost of living that is more affordable than Sydney.
Penfold College Pty Ltd is registered as a private provider on CRICOS. In the Australian education system, ‘private’ means the institution is independently owned and operated, as opposed to government providers such as public universities, TAFE institutes, and government schools. Private providers like Penfold College must meet the same rigorous standards as public institutions to enrol international students, including compliance with the ESOS Act and the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students. Private colleges often offer more specialised courses, flexible study options, and smaller class sizes. They are a popular choice for students seeking vocational qualifications or pathways to higher education. Penfold College’s capacity of 720 CRICOS-registered places reflects its size and focus on quality delivery.
Penfold College delivers all courses at its Melbourne campus located at Level 3, 123 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and a top destination for international students, with over 150,000 international students enrolled across more than 500 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, providing easy access to public transport (trams, trains, and buses), as well as shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Melbourne is known for its affordable cost of living compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around $200–$350, groceries $60–$100, and public transport $30–$50. All courses are delivered at this single location, ensuring a consistent student experience.
Penfold College offers a diverse range of course levels to suit different study goals. The 20 active courses are distributed across the following Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) levels: Certificate III, Certificate IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Graduate Diploma, and Non AQF Award. Certificate III and IV courses provide foundational skills for entry-level roles or further study. Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses offer more specialised knowledge and are often used as pathways to university. Graduate Diplomas are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want to gain advanced skills in a specific area. Non AQF Awards include stand-alone short courses or bridging programs. This range allows students to start at their current level and progress academically.
Penfold College’s courses cover four broad ASCED (Australian Standard Classification of Education) fields: 08 – Management and Commerce, 07 – Education, 03 – Engineering and Related Technologies, and 09 – Society and Culture. Management and Commerce is the largest field, including business, accounting, and marketing courses. Education covers early childhood and training qualifications. Engineering and Related Technologies includes areas such as civil engineering and project management. Society and Culture encompasses community services, counselling, and social work. Students can choose a field that aligns with their career goals and interests.
International students enrolling in Penfold College’s CRICOS-registered courses will typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in Australia. Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 5.5 or equivalent for most vocational courses), and showing sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs (approximately AUD 21,041 per year for a single student), and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover). Penfold College may have specific English requirements for each course – confirm with the provider. For detailed visa information, visit our Student Visa Subclass 500 guide.
Applying to Penfold College involves three simple steps. First, research CRICOS-registered providers by filtering courses by level, field, and city. Use HeadStart Academy’s course search to compare options. Second, apply directly to Penfold College – ensure you meet entry requirements (e.g., academic background, English test scores) and submit your application before the deadline. The college will assess your application and, if successful, issue a Letter of Offer. Third, accept the offer, pay any required fees, and receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). With the CoE, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs.
Always verify an institution’s CRICOS registration before applying. Penfold College Pty Ltd’s CRICOS provider code is 03946C, and you can confirm its current status on the official CRICOS register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au. Registration can change, so checking ensures you are enrolling in a legitimate provider. All institutions listed on HeadStart Academy are verified as CRICOS-registered as at April 2026, but we recommend double-checking before making any commitments.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, with a thriving student community, world-class food and culture, and excellent transport. It is home to over 500 CRICOS-registered providers, offering more than 10,000 courses. The city has a large international student population, making it easy to find support networks. Melbourne’s cost of living is lower than Sydney and comparable to Brisbane, with average weekly rent for a city apartment around $300–$450. Public transport is extensive, and the city’s famous laneways, parks, and beaches provide plenty of leisure options. For students at Penfold College, studying in Melbourne means access to a dynamic job market and internship opportunities across industries.
Explore Penfold College’s courses on HeadStart Academy and start your study journey in Melbourne.
Penfold College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03946C) is a Private provider in Melbourne, VIC with 20 currently non-expired CRICOS courses [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Example course from the register: Diploma of Business (CRICOS 107473M) is listed at 52 weeks with tuition A$12,000 and estimated total A$13,000 [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Important: This page is general information only and not migration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) evidence requirements and current financial settings, verify directly with the Department of Home Affairs [checked 2026-08-21].