Aged care study in Australia usually means three courses taken in order: a Certificate III, a Certificate IV, and a Diploma. Together they take about three and a half years and lead to hands-on work supporting older people.
What does the aged care course pathway look like?
Most students study three linked courses, in this order:
- Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing Support)The entry course for hands-on aged care work. It covers workers in community and residential settings who follow personalised care plans for people who need support.
- Certificate IV in Ageing SupportMore specialised tasks and more independent responsibility.
- Diploma of Community ServicesCase managers and social housing workers who operate independently, under general guidance from senior staff.
What does aged care work actually involve day to day?
- Personal care assistants help with showering, dressing, and meals.
- Aged care workers support mobility, medication routines, and emotional wellbeing.
- Nursing support workers help monitor vital signs and support clinical routines, under supervision.
- Community support workers help people facing challenges like isolation or mental health issues, and connect them to services they need.
Who suits aged care work?
Aged care suits people who stay patient and calm under pressure. You will support older people, and sometimes people with disability. Daily tasks include personal care, mobility support, and help with everyday living. Good communication matters, since you work closely with residents, families, and other health workers.
What does aged care study cost in 2027?
Every international student needs a student visa (subclass 500), and the Department of Home Affairs asks for evidence of funds. The costs, in order:
Visa costs
- AUD $2,500 for most applicants.
- AUD $2,050 for citizens of 10 ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries.
- AUD $745 for citizens of Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste.1
The student visa page lists the countries.
Course fees per year
Fees depend on your college, your location, and which courses you combine. Ask us for the current fee for your chosen course package.
Agency fees
- The Studyaway service fee is AUD $2,000 for a new student visa application from outside Australia, the same for every passport.3
Health insurance
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is compulsory for the whole length of the visa.4 The price depends on the insurer and the length of cover. The health insurance page gets a quote.
Living costs
- AUD $29,710 for 12 months: the figure the Department of Home Affairs asks to see evidence of.2
Evidence of travel, the first year of course fees and AUD $29,710 for living costs.2 The funds calculator works out the figure.
What do you need to apply for aged care study?
- You need to be at least 18 years old.
- You need to meet the English level your course sets.
- Ask us for the current test score your college requires.
- You will need a National Police Check before placements begin.
- Some placements also need a Working with Children Check and proof of immunisation.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is compulsory for your whole visa.
What is aged care placement actually like?
Every course in this pathway includes practical placement hours. You work in real aged care settings, under supervision from qualified staff. This builds hands-on skill alongside your classroom learning. Placement is often where students decide if this career fits them.
Can aged care study lead to other careers?
Some graduates move from aged care into nursing later on. This usually means further study and a strong English test result. Others build a long career within aged care itself, moving from support worker roles into coordination or leadership over time. A pathway to permanent residency (PR) may exist through skilled or employer-sponsored visas, but eligibility depends on your occupation, your employer, and your work experience.
Can you work while you study aged care?
A student visa allows work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, meaning every two weeks.5 Many aged care students also find paid work experience within the sector itself. This can support both your income and your longer-term career path.
This article is general information only, not migration advice. Course details checked July 2026; the visa, funds and fee figures were read at source on 22 October 2026. In Australia, immigration assistance may only be provided by a registered migration agent or Australian legal practitioner - Studyaway provides all students with access to a Registered Migration Agent.
Sources
- Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 1, item 1222(2) (the visa application charge), Compilation No. 289. Read 22 October 2026.
- Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 2, clause 500.214; LIN 19/198, section 6(2) (funds), Compilation No. 2. Read 22 October 2026.
- Studyaway, Pricing: every Studyaway price. Read 22 October 2026.
- Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 2, clause 500.215 (health insurance), Compilation No. 289. Read 22 October 2026.
- Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 8, condition 8105 (48 hours a fortnight), Compilation No. 289. Read 22 October 2026.
Checked and updated 22 October 2026.
