Opal Education Group Pty Ltd (CRICOS provider code 04255M) is a private CRICOS-registered provider offering 8 active courses to international students. Trading as Opal College, this institution delivers programs across five study levels — from Certificate III to Graduate Diploma — in the fields of Management and Commerce, Education, Society and Culture, and Food, Hospitality and Personal Services. With delivery locations in Hobart and Huonville, Tasmania, Opal College provides international students with access to quality education in a unique Australian setting. All courses listed on the CRICOS register are subject to the ESOS Act, ensuring student protections such as tuition fee refunds and course change rights. Before applying, students should confirm their chosen course's CRICOS registration and review visa requirements under the Student visa (Subclass 500) program. Opal Education Group Pty Ltd is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering international students diverse study options across every state and territory.
Opal Education Group Pty Ltd is a private education provider registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) under provider code 04255M. As a private institution, it is independently owned and operated, distinct from government-funded universities, TAFEs, or public schools. Private providers in Australia must meet rigorous standards 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. Opal College, the trading name of Opal Education Group Pty Ltd, focuses on vocational and higher education in business, education, community services, and hospitality. With a CRICOS-registered capacity of 605 students, the institution offers personalised learning environments and practical, industry-relevant training. International students at Opal College benefit from smaller class sizes and direct access to teaching staff, which can enhance the learning experience. The provider's active course count of 8 ensures a focused range of programs designed to meet specific career outcomes. All courses are listed on the CRICOS register, which international students should always verify before applying.
In the CRICOS context, 'Private' refers to non-government educational institutions such as private colleges, language schools, and independent vocational or higher education providers. Unlike public universities or TAFE institutes, private providers are often smaller and may specialise in particular fields or industries. Government institutions include public universities (e.g., University of Tasmania), TAFE colleges (e.g., TasTAFE), and government schools. Private providers like Opal Education Group Pty Ltd must be registered with TEQSA or ASQA and listed on CRICOS to enrol international students. They are subject to the same student protection requirements under the ESOS Act, including tuition fee protection and complaints handling. Studying at a private provider can offer advantages such as flexible intake dates, shorter course durations, and strong industry connections. However, it is important for students to carefully research the provider's reputation, course accreditation, and graduate outcomes. Opal College is a private provider with a clear focus on vocational and professional programs, making it suitable for students seeking targeted skills for the Australian workforce.
Opal Education Group Pty Ltd delivers courses across two locations in Tasmania: Hobart and Huonville. Each campus offers a unique study environment. Hobart, the state capital, is known for its vibrant arts scene, affordable living costs (indicative weekly rent: $250–$400, groceries: $60–$80, transport: $40–$60), and a student-friendly atmosphere. The city hosts over 10,000 international students across multiple CRICOS-registered providers. Huonville, located about 40 minutes south of Hobart, provides a quieter, rural setting ideal for focused study and nature-based lifestyles. Delivery addresses include: 101 Wilmot Road, HUONVILLE TAS 7109; 73-81 Murray Street, HOBART TAS 7000; and Level 2, 86 Collins Street, HOBART TAS 7000. All locations are accessible by public transport, with Hobart campuses close to bus services and the city centre. Students should consider commute times and local amenities when choosing a campus. Tasmanian campuses are known for their close-knit communities and lower cost of living compared to mainland Australia.
Opal College offers courses across five qualification levels recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF): Certificate III, Certificate IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and Graduate Diploma. The institution currently has 8 active courses on the CRICOS register. At the Certificate III and IV levels, students can gain foundational skills in areas such as hospitality, business, or community services. Diploma and Advanced Diploma programs provide more in-depth knowledge and can lead to managerial or supervisory roles. A Graduate Diploma is a postgraduate-level qualification, often designed for students with prior tertiary study or work experience. As of April 2026, the exact distribution of courses by level is not publicly detailed, but students can browse the full list on the CRICOS register using provider code 04255M. International students should note that each course has specific entry requirements, including English language proficiency (typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 for diploma levels) and academic prerequisites. Completion of a Graduate Diploma may also provide a pathway to a master's degree at some Australian universities.
Opal Education Group Pty Ltd offers courses in four broad fields of education as classified by the Australian Standard Classification of Education (ASCED): 08 – Management and Commerce, 07 – Education, 09 – Society and Culture, and 11 – Food, Hospitality and Personal Services. Management and Commerce courses cover business administration, accounting, marketing, and management skills. Education programs may focus on early childhood education or vocational training. Society and Culture includes community services, social work, and counselling. The Food, Hospitality and Personal Services field encompasses cookery, hospitality management, and related vocational training. These fields align with industries in high demand in Tasmania and across Australia, particularly in hospitality and community services. Students can choose a field that matches their career goals and visa opportunities. The Graduate Diploma level is likely offered in Management and Commerce or Education, while Certificate and Diploma courses span several fields. Accurate field information is available on the CRICOS register under provider code 04255M.
International students who enrol in a CRICOS-registered course at Opal Education Group Pty Ltd will need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires applicants to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE), maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay, and show financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs (approximately AUD 21,041 per year for a single student), and travel expenses. The course starting date, duration, and location must align with the CoE issued by Opal College. Students can include family members in their application, subject to additional requirements. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; for visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs. The Student visa also allows part-time work (48 hours per fortnight during study periods) and unlimited work during breaks. Upon completing an eligible course, students may be able to apply for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485).
Applying to Opal Education Group Pty Ltd (Opal College) involves three key steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au) or HeadStart Academy to find courses offered by Opal College. Filter by field of study, level, and location (Hobart or Huonville) to confirm the course meets your goals. Check entry requirements, including academic qualifications and English test scores. 2. Apply directly to Opal College: Submit your application through the provider's admission process. You will need to provide certified copies of transcripts, proof of English proficiency, a copy of your passport, and any other required documents. Be mindful of application deadlines and intake dates (typically February, July, and October). Once accepted, you will receive a Letter of Offer. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): After accepting the offer and paying the required deposit, Opal College will issue a CoE. Use this document along with your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for GTE and financial evidence. We recommend starting your visa application at least 3 months before your course start date.
Before enrolling with any provider, always verify its CRICOS registration status. Opal Education Group Pty Ltd holds CRICOS provider code 04255M. You can confirm this on the official CRICOS website: cricos.teqsa.gov.au. Registration status may change, so it is wise to check before paying fees. The CRICOS register also provides details on course duration, fees, and delivery locations. HeadStart Academy sources data directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026 update) to ensure accuracy. Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers can lawfully enrol international students in Australia. If a provider is not on CRICOS, you cannot obtain a Student visa for that course. Protecting your investment: ESOS Act safeguards include tuition fee protection, refund policies, and access to the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) if a provider closes. Always keep your CoE and enrollment records for the duration of your studies.
Choosing to study in Tasmania offers international students a unique lifestyle combining high-quality education with stunning natural landscapes. Hobart, the capital city, is home to over a dozen CRICOS-registered providers and a growing international student community. Living costs in Hobart are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent between AUD 250 and AUD 400 for shared accommodation, groceries around AUD 60–80, and a transport pass about AUD 40–60. Huonville, a smaller town, provides an even more affordable lifestyle and a close-knit community feel. Students at Opal College's Huonville campus enjoy a peaceful environment, ideal for those focused on hospitality or community services. Public transport connects Huonville to Hobart via bus, though having a car is more convenient. Both locations offer access to Tasmania's world-famous wilderness, food culture, and festivals. When deciding where to study, consider your lifestyle preferences, campus facilities, and career opportunities after graduation. Tasmania has a growing economy with demand for skills in hospitality, education, and community services — fields directly aligned with Opal College's offerings.
Start your study journey in Tasmania with Opal College. Browse CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy and take the first step toward your Australian education.
Opal Education Group Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04255M) is a Private provider in Hobart, TAS with 8 currently non-expired CRICOS courses [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Example course from the register: Diploma of Leadership and Management (CRICOS 116091F) is listed at 52 weeks with tuition A$12,000 and estimated total A$12,250 [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].