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Choosing between »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥and university depends on your learning style, career goals, and the type of qualification you’re seeking.

Here’s how they differ:

• Learning Style:
• »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥focuses on practical, hands-on training designed to prepare you for the workforce.
• University typically offers more theory-based, academic learning.
• Qualifications Offered:
• »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥offers a wide range of qualifications, from certificates and diplomas to associate and bachelor degrees.
• Universities primarily offer bachelor, honours, and postgraduate degrees.
• Career Pathways:
• »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥is ideal for entering the workforce quickly or gaining skills for trades and industry-specific roles.
• University is often suited for careers requiring in-depth academic study or professional accreditation.
• Flexibility and Cost:
• »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥offers more flexible study options and is generally more affordable.
• University courses may require a longer time commitment and higher tuition fees.
• Pathways:
• »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥provides pathways into university if you decide to pursue further study later.

»ÆÉ«Ö±²¥offers industry-recognised qualifications across a wide range of fields, including IT, Business and Marketing, Screen, Media and Games, Environment and Sustainability, Education, Art and Design, and Building and Construction Trades.

You’ll learn in purpose-built facilities from professionals with current industry experience, helping you build skills and connections that lead directly to employment.

Browse our course areas.

The duration of a »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥course depends on the type of course and the level of qualification you choose. »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥offers a wide range of study options, including:

• Statements of Attainment – Short courses that can be completed quickly.
• Certificates I–IV – Vary in length, with some available part-time or full-time.
• Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas – Typically take 12 to 18 months full-time.
• Bachelor Degrees – Usually take 3 years full-time.
• Trade Certificates – Some can be completed in as little as 6 months part-time.

You can study full-time, part-time, or flexibly to suit your lifestyle and commitments such as work or childcare.

Many courses are eligible for government funding, which can make study more accessible.

Click here to learn more about course types at TAFE NSW.

»ÆÉ«Ö±²¥provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed—whether you're studying on campus or online. These services are designed to create an inclusive, supportive learning environment and help you achieve your study and career goals.

Support services include:

• Aboriginal student support
• Disability services and accessibility support
• Childcare services
• Counselling and mental health support
• Career development and job readiness assistance
• Library and learning support
• Technology and digital learning help

These services are available to all enrolled students and are tailored to meet individual needs.

Learn more about student support services at TAFE NSW.

The cost of studying at »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥is generally lower than at university, although exact fees can vary depending on the course and institution.

At a glance:

• TAFE NSW typically offers more affordable tuition fees, especially for vocational and trade-based qualifications.
• Universities often have higher fees, particularly for bachelor degrees and postgraduate programs.
• Exceptions may apply depending on the course type, duration, and level of government funding.

»ÆÉ«Ö±²¥also provides a range of payment options and financial assistance to help manage course fees. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for subsidies, fee-free courses, or support through VET Student Loans or Fee-HELP.

Learn more about paying fees and financial assistance at TAFE NSW.

Yes, »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥offers several options to help with course fees. Depending on your eligibility, you may be able to access:

• Fee-free* courses
• Government subsidies
• Fee-HELP
• VET Student Loans
• Scholarships

These financial support options can make studying more affordable and accessible.

For full details on available support and eligibility criteria, click here to learn more about »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥fees.

*Eligibility criteria apply.

Yes. Many »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥courses offer flexible learning options, allowing you to choose how you study — whether on-campus, online, or through a blended delivery model. This flexibility helps you balance your studies with work, family, and other life commitments while working towards a recognised qualification.

Learn more about ways to study.

If you're considering switching from university to a course at TAFE NSW, follow these steps:

1.Contact your current institution to find out how to withdraw from your course — ideally before your education provider’s census date to avoid financial or academic penalties.
2. Explore »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥courses to find one that suits your interests and career goals. Browse hundreds of options here.
3. Learn how to apply or enrol by visiting the How to Apply or Enrol page.
4. Once you've chosen a course and location, click the "Enrol" or "Apply" button on the course page.
5. Accept your offer once it’s issued to finalise your enrolment.

Yes, you can transfer from university to TAFE NSW. Whether you're changing direction or seeking a more practical learning environment, »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥offers flexible pathways to help you make the switch.

You may be eligible for recognition of your previous study, work, or life experience through:

• Credit Transfer – Recognises completed university subjects that may count towards your »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥qualification or help you gain entry into a course.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) – Assesses your skills, knowledge, and experience gained outside formal education to determine if they meet course requirements.

These options can reduce the time and cost of completing your qualification.

Learn more about recognition and credit transfer at TAFE NSW.

Yes, »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥offers free and confidential support through its Counselling and Career Development Service, designed to help both current and prospective students succeed in their studies and career goals.

Here’s how the service can support you:

• Prospective students can receive guidance on choosing the right course and planning their career path.
• Current students can access a range of services, including career development advice, job search support, and personal counselling.

These services are tailored to help you build confidence, make informed decisions, and prepare for employment.

Click here to learn more about »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥Counselling and Career Development Services.

Yes, you can transfer to a different »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥course. If you’ve previously completed units of competency—either at »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥or another registered training organisation—you may be eligible for a Credit Transfer.

To apply:

1. Speak with your Teacher or Head Teacher to discuss credit transfer options.
2. Identify the units in your new course that align with your previous study.
3. Complete the Enrolment Adjustment Credit Form.
4. Submit the form to your Teacher or Head Teacher for processing.

Credit Transfer helps you avoid repeating units you've already completed, saving you time and effort in your new course.