Established: 1928
Type: Government-owned TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institute
Campuses: Multiple locations, including Reid (main campus in central Canberra), Bruce, Fyshwick, and Gungahlin
Students: Over 20,000 annually, including domestic and international students
CIT offers a wide range of qualifications, including:
Certificates I-IV
Diplomas
Advanced Diplomas
Graduate Certificates
Apprenticeships & Traineeships
Fields of study include:
Business & Accounting
Information Technology
Engineering & Construction
Health & Community Services
Hospitality & Culinary Arts
Creative Industries
Science & Environment
Automotive & Electrotechnology
CIT is popular among international students due to:
Strong industry ties and job-ready training
Pathways to Australian universities (e.g., University of Canberra and Australian National University)
Student support services: orientation, language support, career counselling, etc.
Competitive tuition fees compared to universities
Modern workshops and labs
Industry-grade kitchens and restaurants (like CIT Restaurant at Reid)
Hair and beauty salons
On-campus library and study spaces
Online and blended learning platforms
Government-recognized qualifications
Industry-led training = better job outcomes
Flexibility: part-time, online, and full-time options
Strong support for international students
Located in Canberra – safe, student-friendly, and close to major national institutions
Certificate III/IV in Business
Diploma of Business
Diploma of Leadership and Management
Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping
Diploma of Accounting
Project Management Courses
Ideal for careers in administration, management, finance, or as a pathway to university business degrees.
Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking / Programming / Web Development)
Diploma of Information Technology
Certificate IV / Diploma of Cyber Security
ICT Graduate Certificate
Designed to equip students for careers in IT support, software development, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies.
Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care / Disability)
Diploma of Community Services
Diploma of Nursing (for international and domestic students)
Certificate IV in Mental Health
First Aid and CPR Courses
Prepares students for healthcare roles or further university study in nursing and allied health.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery
Diploma of Hospitality Management
Certificate III in Patisserie
Barista and Hospitality Short Courses
Great for aspiring chefs, hotel managers, and event planners.
Certificate IV / Diploma of Graphic Design
Diploma of Visual Arts
Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging
Diploma of Music Industry (Performance / Sound Production)
Perfect for students looking for careers in arts, design, music, and multimedia.
Certificate III in Electrotechnology (Electrician)
Certificate III in Carpentry
Certificate III in Plumbing
Diploma of Engineering - Technical
Building and Construction Courses
Popular with apprentices and those seeking practical, trade-based careers.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Automotive Electrical Technology
Hands-on training using industry-standard equipment and real-world workshops.
Certificate III in Horticulture
Certificate IV in Environmental Management and Sustainability
Certificate III in Animal Studies
Ideal for careers in landscaping, sustainability, and environmental management.
Diploma of Laboratory Technology
Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
Courses related to forensics, pathology testing, and lab work.
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
General English
IELTS Preparation Courses
Often taken by international students before moving into a vocational or higher education program.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Forensic Studies in Crime Scene Examination |
3 years |
~$21,000 |
|
Bachelor of Applied Science (Forensic Studies) |
3 years |
~$21,000 |
|
Bachelor of Networking and Software Development (with UC) |
3 years |
~$20,000 – $21,500 |
|
Bachelor of Business Informatics (via UC pathway) |
3 years |
~$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (UC Pathway via CIT) |
3–4 years |
~$20,000 – $22,000 |
BHTM (Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management) in Australia
Study Pathway |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition (USD/year) |
|---|---|---|
|
CIT Diploma → University of Canberra Master’s |
1–2 years at CIT + 1–2 at UC |
CIT: ~$10,000 – $13,000/year |
The Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is one of the top choices for international students looking for hands-on, career-focused education in Australia. Located in Canberra, the capital city, CIT offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for real-world jobs or further university study.
Industry-Ready Courses: From business and IT to hospitality, engineering, and nursing, CIT programs are aligned with industry needs.
Nationally Recognised Qualifications: All CIT courses are accredited under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), meaning they’re recognized across Australia.
University Pathways: CIT has strong partnerships with University of Canberra (UC) and Australian National University (ANU), allowing students to transition into Bachelor or even postgraduate programs.
English Language Support: CIT offers ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), including IELTS preparation and General English.
Work-Integrated Learning: Many courses include internships, placements, or on-the-job training – a great way to gain real experience while you study.
Flexible Study Options: Choose from full-time, part-time, or blended delivery depending on your visa and program.
Safe, Clean & Student-Friendly City: Canberra is known for being peaceful, well-organized, and culturally diverse – perfect for students.
Affordable Living: Compared to Sydney or Melbourne, the cost of living in Canberra is generally lower.
Post-Study Work Rights: Graduating from a CRICOS-registered course may make you eligible for post-study work visas under Australia's current migration policies.
Multicultural Environment: CIT welcomes students from all over the world and has support services tailored to international student needs.
Diploma of Business
Diploma of Information Technology
Certificate III & IV in Commercial Cookery
Diploma of Nursing
Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care/Disability)
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
International Student Advisors
Orientation Programs
Academic and Language Support
Counselling and Wellbeing Services
Career Services and Employment Help
Certificates & Diplomas: USD $9,000 – $13,000 per year
Bachelor-level Pathways: Start at CIT (~$12,000/year), then continue at UC or another partner university
English Language Courses: Vary depending on the length and type (usually $300 – $400/week)
Start by selecting a course that matches your interests and career goals. CIT offers a range of programs in:
Business and IT
Health and Nursing
Hospitality and Culinary Arts
Engineering and Construction
Early Childhood Education
Creative Industries
English Language (ELICOS)
You can explore available programs on CIT’s official website.
Each course has its own requirements, but in general, you’ll need:
Certificate/Diploma: Completion of Year 11 or 12 (or equivalent)
Advanced Diploma: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent)
Bachelor Pathway Courses: Higher academic results, often equivalent to Year 12 plus good English skills
IELTS Academic: Overall 5.5–6.5 (depending on the course)
Other accepted tests: TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English
For example:
Nursing courses require IELTS 7.0 (with no band less than 7.0)
You’ll need to submit the following:
Passport (photo page)
Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS or other test)
Resume/CV (if required for the course)
Statement of Purpose (for some programs)
Work experience documents (if applicable)
You can apply:
Online via the CIT website, or
Through a registered CIT education agent in your country
There is usually a non-refundable application fee (around AUD $200, approx. USD $130).
If your application is successful, CIT will send you:
A Letter of Offer (conditional or unconditional)
Course details, fees, and terms and conditions
Sign and return the Acceptance of Offer
Pay the initial tuition deposit (usually the first semester fee)
This secures your place in the course
After your payment is received, CIT issues your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) – a document required to apply for your Australian Student Visa (subclass 500).
Using your CoE, apply for a student visa via the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
You’ll also need:
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Proof of financial capacity
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
Passport and other supporting documents
Once your visa is approved:
Book your flight to Canberra
Organize accommodation (CIT can assist)
Attend CIT's International Student Orientation
CIT offers multiple intakes throughout the year, depending on the course.
February (Semester 1)
July (Semester 2)
April
October
These mid-semester intakes are usually for selected courses like business, IT, hospitality, or English language programs.
Tip: Apply at least 3–6 months before your preferred intake to allow time for processing, visa application, and travel arrangements.
Eligibility depends on the course level you’re applying for:
Completion of Year 11 or equivalent in your home country
Completion of Year 12 (Senior Secondary Certificate) or equivalent
Some programs (like nursing) may require science subjects
Year 12 or equivalent
Meet academic progression standards for university credit transfer (if applicable)
A relevant Diploma or Advanced Diploma qualification
Sometimes professional experience is considered
You must meet English proficiency based on your course:
Course Level |
IELTS Academic Score (or equivalent) |
|---|---|
|
Certificates & Diplomas |
Overall 5.5 (no band less than 5.0) |
|
Advanced Diplomas |
Overall 6.0 (no band less than 5.5) |
|
Nursing & Health Programs |
IELTS 7.0 (no band less than 7.0) |
|
English Language Courses |
No formal score needed (placement test) |
Accepted tests include:
IELTS Academic
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
Cambridge English (CAE)
You must be at least 18 years old before the course begins.
Some exceptions may apply for younger students with guardianship and special arrangements.
To get a student visa, you’ll need to meet Australia’s GTE criteria:
Show genuine intention to study
Have clear academic and career goals
Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Value / Benefit |
When to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
|
CIT International Student Scholarship |
New international students applying for eligible courses |
Up to AUD $2,000 tuition fee reduction |
During course application |
|
CIT Academic Merit Scholarship |
High-achieving students with strong academic records |
Partial tuition fee waiver (varies by course) |
After first semester (continuing students) |
|
CIT Early Bird Discount |
Students who apply and pay early |
Tuition discount (approx. AUD $500–$1,000) |
Before published deadline (varies) |
|
CIT/UC Pathway Scholarship |
CIT students transferring to University of Canberra |
Scholarship opportunities via UC |
Apply through UC after CIT study |
|
Australian Government Scholarships (e.g. Australia Awards) |
Students from eligible countries (mostly postgrad) |
Full tuition, living stipend, travel |
Through home government or DFAT |
Campus Name |
Location |
Key Facilities |
Accommodation Options Nearby |
Estimated Cost (per week in USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CIT Reid |
Central Canberra (City) |
Library, student services, CIT restaurant, creative arts & design facilities |
UniLodge, StudentOne, share housing |
$200 – $350 (shared/private) |
|
CIT Bruce |
North Canberra |
Health, nursing, fitness & sports science labs, nursing simulation centre |
UC Village, rental apartments |
$220 – $360 (shared/private) |
|
CIT Fyshwick |
South Canberra |
Trade skills workshops (automotive, construction, electrotechnology) |
Share houses, homestay options |
$180 – $300 |
|
CIT Gungahlin |
North Canberra (New) |
Modern classrooms, business & IT programs |
Nearby apartments, shared rentals |
$200 – $320 |
|
CIT Tuggeranong |
South Canberra |
Smaller campus with flexible learning options |
Homestay, apartments, shared housing |
$180 – $300 |
Type |
Description |
Estimated Weekly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestay |
Live with a local Australian family – includes meals and support |
$250 – $300 |
|
Student Apartments |
Purpose-built student housing (e.g., UniLodge, UC Village) |
$220 – $350 |
|
Shared House |
Rent a room in a shared private house or flat |
$180 – $250 |
|
Private Rental |
Studio or 1-bedroom unit (independent living) |
$300 – $450+ |
CIT’s approach is very hands-on and practical. Whether you're studying hospitality, nursing, IT, or business, you'll be in modern facilities with real-world equipment — from commercial kitchens to tech labs and nursing simulation rooms. Classes are usually small, which means more personalized support and closer relationships with teachers.
CIT is home to students from over 90 countries, making it a diverse and inclusive environment. It’s easy to meet people from different backgrounds, share cultures, and make lifelong friendships. Cultural events, international student meetups, and multicultural celebrations are common across campuses.
Life as a student, especially in a new country, comes with challenges — and CIT is ready to help. Some of the key services include:
International student advisors
Free counselling and mental health support
Career guidance and job search help
Academic support and tutoring
Orientation week for new students
Visa and legal help
While CIT doesn’t have university-style sports teams or massive student unions, it still hosts plenty of social events, workshops, and on-campus activities:
BBQs, cultural festivals, and market days
Study skill workshops and resume-building sessions
Fitness and wellness classes (especially at the Bruce campus)
Volunteering and student ambassador programs
Canberra is a great student city — clean, safe, and not as expensive as Sydney or Melbourne. It's easy to get around with public transport (ACTION buses and light rail), and there are plenty of parks, cafes, museums, and nature spots nearby. Most students love the calm, friendly pace of life here, perfect for focusing on study while still enjoying social time.
International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester (as of current visa rules), and unlimited hours during breaks. CIT often helps students find:
Part-time work in hospitality, retail, aged care, etc.
Internships or industry placements through your course
Resume help and mock interview practice
Student life at CIT is all about balance – practical learning, cultural exchange, and personal support. Whether you're focused on building skills for a career, planning to move on to university, or just starting out in Australia, CIT offers a welcoming environment to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
CIT is known for delivering job-ready, industry-aligned training — and placements are a big part of that. While it doesn’t guarantee 100% job placement like some private colleges may advertise, CIT provides excellent pathways into employment through strong industry partnerships, practical training, and career support services.
Many CIT programs include mandatory work placements or internships as part of the curriculum. These are built into the course to give students real-world experience before they graduate.
Nursing & Aged Care: Includes clinical placements in hospitals or aged care facilities
Commercial Cookery & Hospitality: Students work in CIT’s own restaurant or local venues
Early Childhood Education: Placements in childcare centers and preschools
Community Services & Mental Health: Practical hours in support agencies or outreach programs
Over 85% of CIT graduates are employed or in further study within 6 months of graduating (source: NCVER/VET data)
High demand in industries like health care, IT, trade, community services, and aged care
Many employers in Canberra prefer CIT graduates because they’ve had hands-on training
CIT offers dedicated support to help students transition into the workforce:
Resume and cover letter writing workshops
Mock interviews and job interview preparation
Job fairs and networking events
Connections to local employers and job boards
CIT JobSkills Hub: A platform to connect students with job and internship opportunities
Support for international students looking for part-time or post-study work
While studying, international students on a Student Visa (subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (part-time)
During breaks, you can work full-time
After graduating, eligible students may apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (Temporary Graduate Visa – subclass 485), which allows you to stay and work in Australia
Healthcare & Nursing
Community Services
Hospitality & Cookery
IT & Cybersecurity
Trades (e.g., Electrical, Carpentry, Automotive)
Studying at CIT in skills shortage areas (like aged care, nursing, IT, or trade) can help open doors to:
Long-term employment in Australia
Employer sponsorship opportunities
PR (Permanent Residency) pathways under Australia’s skilled migration program
Estimated Acceptance Rate: Around 80% – 90%
CIT has a high acceptance rate for eligible students who meet the entry requirements.
It is considered inclusive and accessible, especially for international students seeking vocational training or university pathways.
CIT is a TAFE institution, focused on vocational education and practical training — not academic research.
Entry requirements are achievable: Most programs require Year 11 or Year 12 equivalent + English proficiency.
Course availability is broad, with multiple intakes and plenty of seats across campuses.
CIT aims to support skill development and workforce readiness rather than filter applicants through competitive academic rankings.
Not meeting academic or English language requirements
Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
Applying too late (after deadlines or once the intake is full)
Applying for limited-seat programs (e.g., Nursing, which is more competitive and has stricter criteria)
Apply early (3–6 months before intake)
Ensure your documents are certified and translated (if needed)
Prepare for English tests like IELTS or PTE
Write a strong Statement of Purpose (if required)
CIT has five main campuses spread across Canberra, the capital city of Australia, in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
Location: Constitution Avenue, Reid, Canberra City
About: The central and largest campus, close to shops, museums, transport, and the city centre.
Courses Offered: Business, Design, Hospitality, IT, Beauty, English (ELICOS), and Creative Arts
Transport: Easily accessible by buses and light rail
Location: 35 Vowels Crescent, Bruce, ACT
About: Near the University of Canberra and Calvary Hospital; known for health and science programs.
Courses Offered: Nursing, Allied Health, Fitness, Aged Care, Community Services
Facilities: Nursing labs, fitness centre, health clinics
Location: 81 Mildura Street, Fyshwick, ACT
About: The trade training campus, home to hands-on programs and workshops
Courses Offered: Automotive, Construction, Electrotechnology, Plumbing, Refrigeration
Focus: Apprenticeships and trade skills training
Location: 5 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin, ACT
About: A modern, smaller campus located in a growing northern district
Courses Offered: Business, IT, Adult Education
Surroundings: Close to shops, light rail, and residential areas
Location: 205 Anketell Street, Greenway, ACT
About: A flexible learning campus serving the southern suburbs
Courses Offered: Community-based learning, online support, and short courses
Focus: Flexible study options and local engagement
