Life After School

TAFE & VET

VET courses are usually geared towards school-leavers who are going to enter a specific trade; for example, plumbing or bricklaying. TAFE courses are also highly practical, but have an increased academic focus, providing an overview of the field, and not just a specific trade.

What are the pros of doing a TAFE or VET course?
  • More practical, so if you don’t enjoy the academic side of learning TAFE or VET might be the right choice.
  • Quicker to complete (six months to two years) compared to university qualifications (three years, full time).
  • Generally much cheaper than university courses, particularly in areas where there is a national skill shortage.
  • Instructors usually work in the field so can give real-world insights, and work placements give students great insight to industry and work experience.
  • TAFE graduate employment rate is higher than it is for university graduates.
  • The annual salary of TAFE graduates (meaning the job they get after studying) is higher than for it is for recent university graduates.
Links to help you in your journey
  • Youth Central has information on the basics of TAFE, such as the difference between certificates and diplomas, how to apply for TAFE and information on finding TAFE courses. 
  • My Skills allows you to search for VET and TAFE courses throughout Australia.  
  • Victorian Skills Gateway is a resource for exploring VET and TAFE courses within Victoria. It has plenty of information on course fees and which locations provides which courses. 
  • There are also government loans available to help cover VET course fees.
Financial assistance

Stories & advice

Let’s Talk About TAFE

Life after school

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