Study automotive in Australia in 2027

Automotive study in Australia usually means three qualifications in sequence: a Certificate III, a Certificate IV, and a Diploma. Each stage adds more advanced mechanical and diagnostic skill.

What does the automotive course cover?

Three qualifications, in this order:

1. Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical TechnologyCore mechanical skills first: general tasks on light vehicles in the retail, service, and repair industry.
2. Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical DiagnosisAdvanced diagnostic work on modern vehicles.
3. Diploma of Automotive TechnologyAdvanced diagnosis, design, and vehicle systems work.

Ask us for the current course durations for each stage of the package.

What does an automotive technician actually do day to day?

• Technicians diagnose mechanical and electrical faults in engines and parts.
• They remove, inspect, and replace worn or damaged components.
• They carry out scheduled services, like oil changes and engine tune-ups.
• They test repaired vehicles, then issue roadworthiness certificates when a vehicle passes inspection.

Why do students choose automotive study?

Australia has an ongoing shortage of qualified motor mechanics. Vehicles, from family cars to emergency and delivery fleets, always need trained technicians. Automotive courses also teach current technology, including electric and hybrid vehicles. Training happens in equipped workshops, not only in classrooms.

What does automotive 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 your course combination. 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

What do you need to apply for automotive study?

• You need Year 12 or equivalent, and to be at least 18 years old.
• You need IELTS 6.0 or PTE 47, or IELTS 5.5 or PTE 39 with at least 10 weeks of an English course (ELICOS), plus a language and numeracy check at enrolment.
• Ask us for the test score your college requires as well.
• You will also need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your visa, and to meet standard health and character checks.

What is automotive study actually like?

The work is physical. You lift, bend, and work with oils, fuels, and other chemicals, so safety training matters throughout. Vehicle technology keeps changing, so you keep learning after you graduate too. Many students enjoy the problem-solving side of the job, working out what is actually wrong with a vehicle.

What comes after you graduate from automotive study?

Graduates can work as light vehicle mechanics or automotive electricians. With experience, some move into workshop supervision, service management, or technical specialist roles. Skills assessment for automotive trade work in Australia is handled by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA).6

Can automotive study lead to a visa pathway?

Some graduates use their qualification and work experience to look at further visa options, including the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485, for applicants 35 or younger)5 or a skilled visa. A pathway to permanent residency (PR) may be possible, but eligibility depends on your occupation, your employer, and your own situation. Check your options with a registered migration agent before you plan around any one visa.

Can you work while you study automotive?

A student visa allows work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, meaning every two weeks.7 Many automotive students also pick up casual workshop work, which builds hands-on experience.

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

1. Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 1, item 1222(2) (the visa application charge), Compilation No. 289. Read 22 October 2026.
2. Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 2, clause 500.214; LIN 19/198, section 6(2) (funds), Compilation No. 2. Read 22 October 2026.
3. Studyaway, Pricing: every Studyaway price. Read 22 October 2026.
4. Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 2, clause 500.215 (health insurance), Compilation No. 289. Read 22 October 2026.
5. Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 1, item 1229(4)(b) (Temporary Graduate visa age), Compilation No. 289. Read 22 October 2026.
6. LIN 19/051, section 10AA (assessing authorities: TRA for motor mechanic and automotive electrician), Compilation No. 5. Read 22 October 2026.
7. Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 8, condition 8105 (48 hours a fortnight), Compilation No. 289. Read 22 October 2026.

Checked and updated 20 October 2026.