There are 2 Associate Degree courses offered by 2 CRICOS-registered providers across Western Australia. Whether you're looking to start a management and commerce pathway or an engineering and related technologies foundation, Associate Degrees (AQF Level 6) provide a solid stepping stone to further study or entry-level professional roles. Western Australia's vibrant education hubs, particularly Perth, offer a range of study options with tuition fees ranging from A$40,050 to A$63,000 and durations from 1 to 2 years. As an international student, you'll benefit from the ESOS Act protections that apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. This guide covers everything you need to know about studying an Associate Degree in WA, including providers, costs, English requirements, and visa steps.
An Associate Degree is a qualification at Level 6 of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). It typically requires two years of full-time study (or equivalent) and provides a broad foundation in a specific field of education. Associate Degrees are designed to prepare students for paraprofessional roles or for progression to a Bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7). Entry requirements generally include completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) with satisfactory results, and English language proficiency. For international students, this level offers a shorter and more affordable pathway into Australian higher education compared to a full Bachelor's degree. Many universities and private providers offer Associate Degrees as stand-alone qualifications or as a stepping stone to further study.
Tuition fees for Associate Degrees in Western Australia range from A$40,050 to A$63,000 for the full program (indicative, set by individual providers). Duration typically spans 1 to 2 years of full-time study. Below is a breakdown by field of education. Note: These are approximate ranges and may vary by provider. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, textbooks, and transport. For up-to-date fee information, always check directly with the institution.
Two CRICOS-registered providers offer Associate Degrees in Western Australia:
At the Associate Degree level in Western Australia, international students can choose from two broad fields of education:
Each field corresponds to specific course units and learning outcomes, ensuring graduates are equipped with relevant skills for employment or further study.
English language requirements vary by provider and course. Typically, international applicants need an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent). For example, Curtin University may require IELTS 6.0 for its Associate Degree, while the Engineering Institute of Technology might set a higher bar of 6.5 for engineering-related courses. Some providers also accept TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English qualifications. Always check the specific entry requirements for your chosen course on the provider's website.
International students planning to study an Associate Degree full-time in WA must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) declaration - Proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (approx. A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay - Acceptance into a CRICOS-registered course, evidenced by a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
For detailed guidance, refer to our [Student visa (Subclass 500) guide](/visa/student-visa-subclass-500). Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Start your journey to studying an Associate Degree in Western Australia. Explore CRICOS-registered providers and apply today.
Showing 17 associate degree courses from 7 CRICOS providers in Western Australia.
Counted from the official register for WA: 17 non-expired CRICOS courses across 7 providers.
Most common course levels
Planning baseline from the CRICOS register [CRICOS register, Apr 2026]. Confirm fees, intakes and visa settings with the provider and government sources before applying.