Are you a local student?

This page is for local students (Australian citizens, permanent residents, New Zealand citizens) who want to apply directly for a vocational education course at Swinburne, from diplomas and certificates to master degrees.

If you are an international student, please use our application guide for international students.

Step-by-step application guide

Step 1. Check your course entry requirements

Once you’ve decided what you want to study, visit the course page and confirm you meet the academic and – if relevant – the English-language requirements.

Free TAFE: Check if you can study your course with no tuition fees

Swinburne offers a range of scholarships to provide opportunities, promote equity and recognise excellence. Many are based on academic merit, while others consider personal circumstances. Review the full list of scholarships to see if you are eligible.

Find Free TAFE courses
Skills First: Check your eligibility for government fee support

Skills First is a Victorian Government program that helps people access vocational education and training. Check if you are eligible to apply for a government-subsidised place in your course.

Learn more about Skills First

Step 2. Find the next available intake

Vocational education courses can begin at different times across the year, and start dates vary by course. Check the available intakes so you can choose the one that best fits your plans. 

Review start dates and intakes

Step 3. Prepare your supporting documents

You’ll need a few key documents when you apply for your course. These can include proof of citizenship or visa and academic transcripts, but the exact documents required will depend on your chosen course. 

Check required documents for your course

Step 4. Start your application

Apply online through our application portal. You can upload your supporting documents, answer eligibility questions and apply for any concessions or Skills First subsidies if you’re eligible. You can also save your application and finish it later.

Apply online

What happens next?

If your application is successful, we’ll send you a formal Letter of Offer that outlines how to: 

  • accept your offer 
  • enrol in your course units.
Learn how to accept your offer

Academic policies and frameworks to help you succeed

Browse our policies and procedures that outline what you can expect from us – and what we expect from you.

Need help with your application?

Book a one-on-one consultation or call us for assistance – we’ll guide you through the process and get you on your way.

Application consultation

Book now

Call us from Australia

1300 794 628

(option 2)

Call us from overseas

+61 3 9214 8444