Colleges provide students not only with theoretical knowledge but they also make sure that students gain substantial practical experience that will prepare them for a specific profession. Furthermore, college graduates can continue their education for instance at universities. The fact is that even after finishing a 3-month course you will receive a certificate of completion. This is one of the reasons why college courses are highly popular among foreign students.

The greatest advantage of this form of education is convenience. It’s possible to sift through endless possibilities of available courses and many convenient intake dates. This system enables you to enrol to another course of higher level right after finishing your first level or choose a different area of study altogether. You can graduate from college receiving either a certificate or a diploma. If you are planning a trip to Australia for less than a year, you will be able to complete a 6-month’s course and obtain Certificate III. Whereas, if you decide to stay in Australia for as long as two years, you can choose a course that lasts 1.5-year and ends with a Certificate IV or a Diploma (this will depend on the school you choose).

Most essential information concerning particular types of certificates:

• Certificate I - certifies basic vocational skills and knowledge.
• Certificate II - certifies valuable practical skills.
• Certificate III - certifies further development of practical skills combined with some theoretical knowledge.
• Certificate IV - certifies more advanced skills and knowledge in a chosen specialisation.
• Diploma - certifies completion of a course lasting one or two years, ensuring thorough practical and theoretical knowledge in a given field. Various skills acquired will allow the student to solve different kinds of practical and theoretical problems. The student will also learn to work on complex projects and to manage a team. Most importantly though, college graduates holding a diploma can commence university education at any time or even apply to the second year of a university course.
• Advanced Diploma - certifies completion of a course lasting between 1.5 and 2.5 years providing specialist knowledge in a given field. The course prepares the student for appropriate positions and managing large teams. College graduates with an Advanced Diploma can continue their education at universities.

Since college courses usually take the form of lectures, students are expected to have sufficient knowledge of the English language. The emphasis is on communication skills and the ability to understand lectures and written texts. In order to be accepted by an Australian college, a prospective student needs to present a document certifying their English language skills at an adequate level (equivalent to IELTS 5.5). You can also complete an upper-intermediate level language course in Australia.

Another way is to pass an English language test off-shore – the results of the test (which is arranged by Bridge Agency in a traditional way or online) are accepted by our educational partners. During the enrolment process you will be required to submit your year 12 certificate (but not necessarily matriculation certificate).

Course prices. The cost of one semester in an Australian college varies between 2000 and 6000 AUD. Additionally, you will need to pay once-off enrolment fee: 100-200 AUD and materials fee: 50-200 AUD/semester.