Comprehensive Guide to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)

Wednesday 19 February 2025

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This guide provides an in-depth overview of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), detailing all 10 levels from Certificate I to Doctoral Degrees. It covers qualification types, study durations, career pathways, tuition fees, scholarships, and student visa requirements, offering essential insights for students and professionals.

Comprehensive Guide to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Levels (2025)

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is Australia’s national education system, ensuring that qualifications across schools, vocational training, and higher education are standardized, recognized, and globally competitive.

Whether you're an international student, a professional looking to upskill, or someone exploring educational pathways, understanding AQF levels is essential for choosing the right qualification for your career goals.

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📚 What is the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)?

The AQF is a nationally regulated framework that categorizes all Australian qualifications into 10 levels based on:

✔ Complexity of learning outcomes
✔ Depth of knowledge & skill development
✔ Application of knowledge in professional settings

The AQF ensures seamless progression between education levels, allowing students to move from school to vocational training, university, and beyond.

🏢 Overview of AQF Levels

AQF Level	Qualification Type	Duration	Pathway To
1	Certificate I	6 months	Entry-level jobs
2	Certificate II	6 – 12 months	Skilled work, further study
3	Certificate III	12 – 24 months	Trade jobs, advanced training
4	Certificate IV	6 – 24 months	Supervisory roles, diploma entry
5	Diploma	1 – 2 years	Bachelor’s Degree (credit transfer)
6	Advanced Diploma / Associate Degree	2 years	Bachelor’s Degree (advanced standing)
7	Bachelor’s Degree	3 – 4 years	Employment or postgraduate study
8	Bachelor’s Honours / Graduate Diploma	1 year	Master’s Degree or research study
9	Master’s Degree	1 – 2 years	Professional careers, PhD entry
10	Doctoral Degree (PhD)	3 – 4 years	Research, academia, industry leadership

📌 Each AQF level builds on the skills and knowledge gained from the previous level.

🏠 AQF Levels Explained

🔹 AQF Level 1: Certificate I (Entry-Level Qualification)

Who is it for? Individuals developing basic workplace skills
Duration: 6 months
Pathway to: Certificate II, entry-level employment
Example: Certificate I in Construction ➝ Labourer roles

🔹 AQF Level 2: Certificate II (Foundation Skills)

Who is it for? Those seeking practical skills for trade-related industries
Duration: 6 – 12 months
Pathway to: Certificate III, apprenticeships
Example: Certificate II in Hospitality ➝ Café Assistant

🔹 AQF Level 3: Certificate III (Skilled Work Qualification)

Who is it for? Students preparing for trade jobs or industry certifications
Duration: 12 – 24 months
Pathway to: Certificate IV, direct employment
Example: Certificate III in Automotive ➝ Motor Mechanic

🔹 AQF Level 4: Certificate IV (Supervisory & Technical Roles)

Who is it for? Individuals developing advanced technical skills
Duration: 6 – 24 months
Pathway to: Diplomas, university entry
Example: Certificate IV in Fitness ➝ Personal Trainer

🔹 AQF Level 5: Diploma (Specialist & Management Skills)

Who is it for? Students aiming for specialist careers or university pathways
Duration: 1 – 2 years
Pathway to: Advanced Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree (credit transfer)
Example: Diploma of Nursing ➝ Enrolled Nurse or Bachelor of Nursing

🔹 AQF Level 6: Advanced Diploma & Associate Degree

Who is it for? Those seeking higher industry skills or bachelor’s entry
Duration: 2 years
Pathway to: Bachelor’s Degree (advanced standing)
Example: Associate Degree in IT ➝ Bachelor of Computer Science (credit transfer)

🔹 AQF Level 7: Bachelor’s Degree (Professional Qualification)

Who is it for? Students pursuing a professional career or further study
Duration: 3 – 4 years
Pathway to: Honours, Master’s, or industry employment
Example: Bachelor of Engineering ➝ Civil Engineer

🔹 AQF Level 8: Bachelor’s Honours & Graduate Diplomas

Who is it for? High-achieving students or career upgraders
Duration: 1 year
Pathway to: Master’s Degree, research careers
Example: Graduate Diploma in Psychology ➝ Master of Psychology

🔹 AQF Level 9: Master’s Degree (Advanced Professional Qualification)

Who is it for? Specialists, professionals, and researchers
Duration: 1 – 2 years
Pathway to: PhD, industry leadership roles
Example: Master of Cyber Security ➝ Cyber Security Analyst

🔹 AQF Level 10: Doctoral Degree (PhD) (Highest Academic Qualification)

Who is it for? Researchers, academics, industry leaders
Duration: 3 – 4 years
Pathway to: Academic and research-based careers
Example: PhD in Medical Science ➝ Research Scientist

💰 Tuition Fees for AQF Levels (2025)

AQF Level	Estimated Tuition Fees (AUD per Year)
📚 Certificate I – IV	From $7,500 - $24,000
📖 Diploma / Advanced Diploma	From $16,000 - $55,000
🎓 Bachelor’s Degree	From $40,000 - $90,000
🔬 Master’s Degree	From $50,000 - $85,000
🌍 Doctoral Degree (PhD)	From $70,000 (often funded)