We hope that you will find this guide useful when making the decision to study with us. We have included a detailed summary of the pre-enrolment* process to assist you in understanding your rights and responsibilities as a TAFE Queensland student. You will also find a list of our extensive student support services available.
Why study with TAFE Queensland?
TAFE Queensland is proud to be the largest and most experienced training provider in the state. For more than 140 years, TAFE Queensland has been delivering practical and industry-relevant training to provide students with the skills and experience they need to build lifelong careers.
Purpose built facilities
Step out of the classroom and into our purpose-built facilities where you will learn hands-on using the same tools and equipment used in industry. Put your theory into practice straight away in our clinical labs, salons, training restaurants, and creative spaces. Develop your skills, ability, and confidence and gain the practical experience you need to graduate job ready.
Experienced teachers
Our teachers are the best at what they do. They deliver educational excellence by encouraging and mentoring their students to help them succeed in their chosen industry.
Our teachers also regularly return to industry to keep their skills and knowledge up-todate. They contribute to developing training packages in consultation with industry to ensure our courses continue to meet contemporary workforce requirements.
Course diversity
We offer a diverse range of courses from nursing to cyber security and everything in between. With options to study short courses, certificates, diplomas, bachelor degrees, or apprenticeships and traineeships, whatever your interest, we have a study area and a course to suit you.
Flexible study options
Find a way to study that suits what you want right now. We offer traditional on-campus study as well as hands-on apprenticeships and traineeships, online study, TAFE at School courses, and the ability to complete qualifications through recognition of prior learning.
University pathways
There’s more than one way to get into your dream university degree. Completing a diploma is a common alternative pathway into university. Unlike uni, you don't have to meet strict academic criteria to enrol in a diploma course, but that doesn't mean your studies at TAFE aren't valued. In fact, most universities will consider your diploma as equivalent to the first year of study in a related bachelor degree.
144,000 students
Over 86% of our graduates go on to work or further study*
In 2023-24 we trained 93.1% employer satisfaction rating
100% of our diploma and higher-level courses have diploma-to-degree pathways
Over 60 training locations
We have an (and we’re working very hard on the other 10.5%)
We have a 89.5% student satisfaction rating
Every $1 spent $2.55 of added-value by TAFE Queensland supports in the Queensland economy
Support services
Learning support
The Learning Skills team is ready to assist you with:
• Assignments, essay writing and referencing.
• Study skills and exam preparation.
• English and maths.
• Time management and organisation skills.
Online support
Access to TAFE Queensland learning support and resources including Studiosity. Through Studiosity, you can chat online to expert tutors who can help you with your studies. Studiosity is available for students studying qualifications certificate III and above.
Employment officer
We have an employment expert who can help match you to a job opportunity as they become available. The position works closely with our other student services to help guide and support you as you seek employment.
Indigenous student support
If you are an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student, you can access additional student support services. Our Indigenous student support officers can offer specific advice and help on a variety of topics including study help, pathways and career options.
AccessAbility support
If you identify with having a disability, our staff can work with you to develop a support plan This may include:
• Communicating with your teacher on your behalf, if required.
• Providing sign language interpreters, readers and scribes.
• Loaning you assistive technology.
• Coordinating alternative assessment arrangements.
Counselling support
Short-term counselling is available for all students. Support services include:
• Deciding what career path to follow.
• Choosing the right course.
• General difficulties with student life.
• Personal and complex issues.
• Cross-cultural and special needs.
• Service referrals for long-term support.
Student resources
Connect
Connect is TAFE Queensland’s student learning management system. Connect allows you to access course material, submit assessments online, communicate with your teacher, check how well you’re doing and much more. Your enrolment pack will inform you if all or part of your course is being delivered in Connect. Your web account information, included in your enrolment pack, will outline the username and password you will use to log in to Connect. connect.tafeqld.edu.au
Timetables
In most cases the timetable system is available up to 20 weeks in advance (please note this is subject to change). To access the student systems at TAFE Queensland, you require a username and password. Your username is your student number which can be found on your Confirmation of Enrolment (COE). timetables.tafeqld.edu.au
Library
All students can access the TAFE Queensland library network which offers a range of physical and digital services and resources to support you throughout your study. Visit the libraries portal site library.tafeqld.edu.au.
Internet/WiFi
WiFi hot spots are available at various campuses. Student computers are equipped with Internet access. To find out how to connect, visit tafeqld.edu.au/wifi.
Student portal
The TAFE Queensland Student Portal is a game changer. Designed to make your student life easier; sort out your student admin from your smartphone or desktop, quickly and simply, leaving you more time to focus on what really matters — your education and training.
All students have access to the student portal which is a one-stop-shop for easy access to the information you need about your study with TAFE Queensland. In the student portal you will be able to access current study plans and results, pay fees and apply for a VET student loan, update your personal details and access live chat.
tafeqld.edu.au/studentportal
Additional learning support
Although some courses may not have formal entry requirements, a certain level of literacy and numeracy is required in order for you to to be able to obtain the required skills and knowledge of the course. All students in accredited courses undergo language, literacy and numeracy testing after enrolment or at orientation, to identify any areas where they may need additional support. If you are found to be at risk of non-completion based on these results, you will be confidentially contacted to discuss your study options. This occurs within the refund period, so if you agree to change or withdraw you can do so without penalty. You can access free pre-enrolment testing to check your literacy and numeracy levels prior to making your study decision. For information on the range of free learning support services available, contact our Customer Service Centre.
Applications and enrolments
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
You will need a USI prior to enrolling in your course. To create your USI, go to usi.gov. au. If you need help, our Customer Service team can assist prior to your enrolment. Your USI will help keep your training records and results together in an online account controlled by you for you to access.
Identification and other documents
To enrol into an accredited course at TAFE Queensland, you are required to provide personal photographic identification. To access certain types of funding, a VET Student Loan or as part of course entry requirements you may be required to provide further identification and documentation (i.e. citizenship documents, Queensland address, etc.). Please visit tafeqld.edu.au/enrol for more information.
BKSB test
Basic Key Skills Builder (BKSB) is an approved online testing tool that TAFE Queensland uses to help determine your reading and numeracy levels within the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). Most TAFE Queensland students will be asked to complete a BKSB after enrolment so we can ensure you have the right skills and support to be successful in your course. Some students will be required to complete this test before enrolment as part of the VET Student Loan application or as a course entry requirement. Learn more: tafeqld.wistia.com/medias/sxxogi1gft
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Through RPL, your existing skills and knowledge will be assessed against current industry standards, allowing you to gain credits toward a qualification.
For more information on RPL contact us on (07) 5581 8797.
Credit transfer
An application for credit transfer can be made if you have completed a similar or the same unit previously. A credit transfer application must be made before the start of study date. Apply for your credit transfer as part of your application and include copies of your previous transcripts.
Work experience and vocational placement
Vocational placement is vital in linking the knowledge and skills acquired during a student’s training, here at TAFE Queensland, with real workplace applications in industry. It assists students in the transition from training to work and provides substantial benefits to both the student and the provider. If vocational placement is a compulsory component of your course, you must successfully complete this in order to achieve successful outcomes and graduate. Please be aware of your course's specific vocational placement or work experience requirements by referring to the course information on our website. In some cases, these placements may require: immunisation checks, Police checks, rotational rostered shifts in industry, Blue and/or White Card.
Apply & enrol
Telephone 1300 308 233 (select Gold Coast)
qtac.edu.au
*For some of our courses you may apply directly to Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC) at the qtac. edu.au website. If your application to enrol is successful you will receive an acceptance letter and email. Closing dates and timelines are outlined on the QTAC website.
Applications and enrolments
How to apply
1. Choose your course
• Make sure you fully understand the course details and fees.
2. Entry requirements
• Some courses don’t have any entry requirements, however may require previous qualifications, skills or knowledge.
• You can find this information on all course pages on our website under Important Information.
3. Your rights and responsibilities as a student
• It is important that you take the time to familiarise yourself with the TAFE Queensland Student Rules and Policies on our website. Visit tafeqld.edu.au/studentrules
4. Complete your application
• Go to tafeqld.edu.au/eligibilitydocuments to view eligibility documents required.
• Gather and upload your eligibility documents to submit online via the Apply Now button on the course brochure, apply via the Student Portal or provide hard copies to a Customer Service Centre.
• Arrange payment and enrol.
Subsidies and payment options*
As a TAFE Queensland student, there are a range of subsidies, concessions, loans and scholarships you may be eligible for, to assist you with the cost of your study. Fees are payable 30 days prior to the commencement of the course, but there may be other deferred payment options available to you.
Payment plans
TAFE Queensland offers an interest free payment plan option to approved students allowing them to pay their fees in instalments over the duration of their study. Payment plans are available for both full fee paying students and students paying a subsidised tuition fee. Terms and conditions apply and payment plans are only offered through direct debit bank contracts. To find out if you’re eligible for government and independent funding to help reduce the cost of your training, visit tafeqld.edu.au/eligibility-calculator
Scholarships
Achieve your career goals with the help of a TAFE Queensland Scholarship. For further information, visit scholarships.tafeqld.edu.au
VET Student Loans
VET Student Loans (VSL) are an Australian Government loan program that helps eligible VET students pay their tuition fees. If you’re studying a diploma, advanced diploma, graduate certificate or graduate diploma, you may be eligible for a VET Student Loan. For further information visit tafeqld.edu.au/vet-student-loans
VET student loans will not be approved for students who do not meet eligibility requirements. A VET Student Loan gives rise to a VETSL debt which continues to be a debt due to the commonwealth until it is repaid.
Student portal
Through the portal, you can pay your fees, update your details, access your Statement of Account, check your academic results and submit electronic requests. For example: Credit Transfer application, change of name. tafeqld.edu.au/student-portal
Fees and refunds
Protective clothing, uniforms and other resource charges
Students may be required to purchase Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which is essential to their protection whilst undertaking training e.g. safety glasses, safety boots, hairnets, masks and uniforms. Students may also be required to purchase specific uniforms or equipment in order to complete their course.
Student non-payment of fees
Students who pay TAFE Queensland fees using a payment plan must pay on the agreed instalment dates. Payment plan defaults may result in the student being excluded from study or class. Access to all services will cease until payment is up-to-date. Students will not be entitled to receive their qualification until all fees are paid.
Refund policy
Whether you are accessing Government funding, paying a full fee-for-service price or paying for your studies using a VET Student Loan, different refund conditions will apply. Please contact TAFE Queensland Customer Service Centre on 1300 308 233 for more information or visit tafeqld.edu.au/student-refunds
Withdrawal
If you wish to withdraw from a course, module or unit, please speak to your teacher for advice. If you wish to withdraw after start of study, academic or financial penalties may apply. Requests to withdraw must be made in writing or via the student portal.
The withdrawl and refund policy can be found tafeqld.edu.au/student-refunds
Grading and assessment
Assessment
Competency based assessment
Competency-based assessment is the process of collecting evidence and making judgements about whether a person has achieved competency.
It involves people being assessed against fixed criteria or pre-determined benchmarks – such as those expressed in units of competency or accredited modules.
The assessment process will be conducted in an open, transparent and accountable manner with an emphasis on fairness.
Evidence gathering
TAFE Queensland selects methods to gather evidence that reflect the nature of the workplace. Some assessment methods are best suited for assessing practical skills and others are better for assessing theory or underpinning knowledge.
Readiness
When commencing study, your teacher or workplace trainer will provide you with an overview of planned assessment and discuss timeframes and requirements with you to ensure your readiness to undertake assessment. Assessments should be submitted or completed by the specified time for a result to be recorded. However, if necessary, extensions of assessment timeframes will be negotiated and/or considered in specific or exceptional circumstances.
Assessment policy
TAFE Queensland is responsible for training and assessment to comply with Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015.
Our assessment policy supports our students and teachers to work together to achieve the course aims. To be eligible to pass your course, you must satisfactorily complete all the requirements of each module or unit of competency you are enrolled in within a given time. This means you are assessed in terms of being able to do the job to industry standards. Results for units will be given as one of the following:
J – Competent
M – Not competent
If you have any questions regarding your assessment, please contact your teacher.
If you require further information, the assessment policy and TAFE Queensland Student Rules are available via tafeqld.edu. au/student-rules-and-policies
Your teacher will inform you of assessment submission details. All assessments must be submitted with a TAFE Queensland Assignment Cover Sheet unless submitted online through Connect. The Cover Sheet is available on Connect and from our Customer Service Centres.
Academic complaints and appeals
Students can access the complaints and appeals process via the TAFE Queensland website. The complaints and appeals process also extends to students who are being trained and assessed by a third party. Students who are dissatisfied with academic decisions or procedures, or who have any issues which directly relate to the successful completion of their course, should discuss the matter in the first instance with their teacher. Should you be dissatisfied with the decision of the teacher, you have the right to submit an application for re-evaluation to the Director of Faculty. Please refer to the TAFE Queensland Student Rules via tafeqld. edu.au/current-students/student-rules which outlines the procedure.
Feedback
During your study at TAFE Queensland you will have several opportunities to provide feedback about your experience. Feedback forms can also be submitted at any time and are available at our Customer Service Centre. For more information on feedback forms, please call 1300 308 233 or email feedback.goldcoast@tafeqld.edu.au.
Our facilities
At TAFE Queensland, you'll study in purpose-built facilities, including workshops with industry-standard equipment including, fully functioning replica hospital and health care environments, digital and design studios, open to the public restaurants, hair and beauty salons, and gyms, to name a few.
TAFE Queensland
Ashmore
Corner Heeb Street and Benowa Road, Ashmore, Qld 4214
Coolangatta
5 Scott Street, Coolangatta, Qld 4225
Ashmore is home to our specialised Trade Training Centre, where craftsmanship thrives. Featuring industry-standard technologies, this campus supports a wide range of trades, including automotive, construction, electrotechnology, engineering, horticulture, and plumbing.
Nestled on the NSW border, our Coolangatta campus serves students at the southern end of the Gold Coast. Its prime location allows students to embrace the relaxed Gold Coast lifestyle while learning in a supportive and friendly environment.
Coomera
198 Foxwell Road, Coomera, Qld 4209
Coomera Marine
198 Foxwell Road, Coomera, Qld 4209
Designed for creators, innovators, and entertainers, our purpose-built Coomera creative campus fosters creativity with its state-of-the-art facilities. With specialised spaces for film, music, IT, and design it provides the best creative learning experience in the region.
Our Coomera Marine campus offers specialised training for the marine industry, focusing on marine craft construction. With industry-standard equipment, large workshop spaces, high-tech classrooms, and dedicated student areas, it’s the ideal setting for hands-on marine training.
Robina
94 Laver Drive, Robina, Qld 4226
Southport
91–99 Scarborough Street, Coomera, Qld 4215
As a leader in sustainability, our Robina campus integrates eco-friendly principles into every aspect of campus life, from its design to its curriculum. This forward-thinking approach ensures students experience sustainable practices at the core of their education.
Conveniently located in the heart of the Gold Coast CBD, our Southport campus offers easy access to a variety of transport options. It is home to our cutting-edge clinical labs, featuring a 64-bed simulated hospital equipped with world-class technology across all areas of healthcare.
