How can I speak with a RIC representative before deciding to study?

If you are an International Student, you should direct your enquiries to the International Student Services Unit in the first instance.  They will be able to assist you with you questions, or guide you in the right direction to speak to a program specialist.  You can contact them on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or Ph: +61 8 8207 8279.

Do I have to speak English?

Yes.  Most TAFE South Australia award courses have an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5 as a minimum entry requirement.  If you score less than IELTS 5.5 you can enrol in an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) program first.

Please note that some courses have a higher IELTS requirement.  Please refer to the specific courses for further information.

Do I need a VISA?

Student visas are required for full-fee paying international students wanting to study full-time in Australia.  The visa lasts until the completion of your course.  Visa information is available from the nearest Australian Embassy or Australian High Commission in your country, or the local Department of Immigration & Citizenship (DIAC) offices.  For more details, please visit:  www.immi.gov.au

Where will I live?

International Student Services can provide you with more information on this.  Temporary hostel accommodation can be arranged for you, upon request, for your arrival in Adelaide.

Student Services maintains an Accommodation Register listing various types of accommodation available within close proximity to the CBD and the TAFE South Australia campuses.

What about internet access?

Upon commencement of your studies, you will be provided with a computer login for the campus you are enrolling.  Access to computers is available in the Learning Resource Centre (LRC) of each campus.

Is Adelaide, Australia safe?

Adelaide is safe, inclusive, respectful of diversity, it has less congestion, less pollution and less crime than larger cities. 

Clean, green and gigantic; our state has ancient mountains, forests, rivers, deserts and wonderful wildlife.  Our beautiful beaches, like Glenelg, and national parks where you’ll meet our famous koalas, kangaroos and parrots, are only 20 minutes drive from the CBD.

Adelaide was also the first Australian city to invite people from all over the world to settle and freely practice their culture and religion.

What is the cost of living?

Adelaide offers a world-class education and one of the world’s best lifestyles, but for much less cost.  Adelaide remains the least costly mainland state capital to live in.  All costs are cheaper from accommodation to public transport, to general living…..great for students.

Indicative costs of living are:

Am I insured?

International students (and accompanying dependants) studying in Australia are required by law to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and it is a compulsory requirement of a student visa.  The OSHC scheme helps pay for medical and hospital services that students may need while completing studies in Australia.  Students may wish to take out additional private medical insurance for dental work, physiotherapy, optometry and private hospital accommodation and service.  Further detail is available at www.health.gov.au

Can I get a job in Australia?

Student visa holders are allowed to work 20 hours per week during term time and full time during the vacation period. Students who want to work should ensure their visa has work rights attached to it.  While TAFE South Australia does not organise employment, many international students find work in the retail, tourism and hospitality industries.