Vocational Education and Training (VET) Courses for Singaporean Students Abroad

Vocational Education and Training (VET) is an umbrella term for educational and training courses that focus on providing real-world, practical and professional skills for work.  Similar to institutes of technical education (ITE) and polytechnics in Singapore, students often pursue VET qualifications to: 

• Build job-ready skills on the job without committing to long academic programs 

• Enter a specific industry quickly, especially after secondary school or polytechnic 

• Transition into new careers or gain advanced skills for career growth 

• Use their qualification as a stepping stone to a university degree. 

Singaporean students can benefit from studying VET courses in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, where institutions offer recognised qualifications, strong student support, and pathways to a future career within their sector of interest. There is a wide range of vocational training courses that cover a spectrum of industries including:  

• Information Technology 

• Business and Administration 

• Hospitality and Tourism 

• Early Childhood Education 

• Media and Design 

• Health and Community Services 

• Logistics and Engineering 

Unlike traditional academic degrees, VET courses emphasise hands-on learning and workplace-relevant training rather than theory-based education. Depending on the course, students may receive training in: 

• Technical and vocational skills for occupations (e.g. manufacturing, video production, baking, aged care) 

• Professional and industry-relevant practices (eg. occupational health & safety and computer office skills) 

• Concepts and practical training in service-related vocations (eg. hospitality & tourism) 

• Work-integrated learning (e.g. internships, practicum placements) 

Many VET programs abroad also offer nationally recognised qualifications that allow progression into university-level studies such as bachelor's degrees. A key motivation to pursue VET programs abroad in places like Australia, New Zealand and Canada would be as a pathway to migrate or obtain permanent residency (PR). Many sectors such as aged care, hospitality and construction, face very significant labour shortages in developed countries. As such, pursuing a graduate certificate or a diploma from a local institution and working in the sector subsequently can make it a lot easier to get a work visa and subsequently provide a pathway to PR. 

There are many VET courses that Singaporean students can choose from to suit their desired end goals. These include: 

Australia VET Providers

In Australia, VET is delivered by a variety of institutions, including:

• Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Institutes: Public education institution in Australia that offers practical, hands-on training and education across a wide range of industries. For example: 

  • TAFE International Western Australia 

  • TAFE New South Wales 

  • TAFE Queensland 

  • TAFE South Australia 

  • and more. 

• Private Registered Training Organisations (RTOs): Private entities providing specialised training programs.

To explore a comprehensive list of registered training providers and courses, you can visit the National Training Register.

New Zealand VET Providers

New Zealand's VET sector comprises various providers, including:

• Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs): Consolidated under Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, which was established to unify the country's 16 ITPs into a single national organisation. For example, 

  • Unitec Institute of Technology 

  • Ara Institute of Canterbury Limited 

  • Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTech) 

  • Otago Polytechnic 

  • Whitireia New Zealand 

  • Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) 

  • and more. 

• Private Training Establishments (PTEs): Private organisations delivering a range of vocational courses.

For a comprehensive and up-to-date list of these institutions, you can refer to the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) or Study with New Zealand websites.  

Canada VET Providers

In Canada, vocational education is provided by various institutions, including:​ 

• Colleges and Institutes: Publicly funded institutions offering a range of technical and vocational programs.​ For example 

  • George Brown College  

  • Centennial College  

  • British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) 

  • and more. 

• Private Vocational Schools: Offer specialised training in specific trades or professions.​ 

The EduCanada website provides information on colleges and vocational schools across Canada, detailing programs and study options available to international students. 

Studying Vocational Education and Training (VET) abroad offers an opportunity to gain a globally recognised qualification while often being more affordable than pursuing a traditional university degree.  

The cost of studying Vocational Education and Training (VET) varies depending on the country, the institution, and the specific course you choose. Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs for studying VET in each of the countries: 

Cost of Studying VET in Australia 

In Australia, VET courses are offered at TAFE and other registered training organizations. 

Tuition Fees: 

Living Costs: 

On average, international students spend AUD $20,000 - AUD $25,000 per year on living expenses, including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. 

Additional Costs: 

Insurance, visa application fees, textbooks, and course materials can add an extra AUD $1,000 - AUD $2,500 per year. 

Want help choosing the right course in Australia? Speak to a counsellor today. 

Cost of Studying VET in New Zealand 

In New Zealand, Polytechnics and Institutes of Technology (ITPs) offer a wide range of VET programs. 

Tuition Fees: 

Living Costs: 

The cost of living can vary depending on the city, but international students typically spend NZD $12,000 - NZD $20,000 annually on accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. 

Additional Costs: 

Additional costs like health insurance, student fees, textbooks, and other materials can be around NZD $1,000 - NZD $2,000 per year. 

Cost of Studying VET in the United Kingdom (UK) 

In the UK, Further Education (FE) Colleges and Private Vocational Institutions offer VET courses. 

Tuition Fees: 

Living Costs: 

International students can expect to spend around £9,000 - £15,000 annually for living expenses, which include accommodation, food, travel, and personal expenses. The cost is typically higher in London and other big cities. 

Additional Costs: 

Books, course materials, and insurance can cost between £500 - £1,500 annually, depending on the course. 

Cost of Studying VET in Ireland 

Ireland offers vocational education primarily through Colleges of Further Education (CFEs) and Institutes of Technology (ITs). 

Tuition Fees: 

Living Costs: 

The cost of living varies by location, with an average cost of €7,000 - €12,000 annually for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. 

Additional Costs: 

Insurance, textbooks, and materials can add €500 - €1,000 per year. 

Cost of Studying VET in Canada 

In Canada, VET programs are offered by Colleges, Institutes, and Community Colleges across the country. 

Tuition Fees: 

Living Costs: 

International students in Canada typically spend around CAD $10,000 - CAD $15,000 annually for accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, depending on the city and lifestyle. 

Additional Costs: 

Health insurance, student fees, textbooks, and materials can cost approximately CAD $1,000 - CAD $2,000 annually. 

Many universities and higher institutions recognise VET courses at the certificate IV, diploma and advanced diploma levels as entry points into their undergraduate degree programs. 

In addition, students can also enjoy advanced credit towards certain related or relevant coursework. This can come in the form of module (subject) exemptions or a reduction in course semester duration, depending on the institution itself. 

In Australia, for example, students who complete a Diploma or Advanced Diploma in fields such as Business or Information Technology can gain advanced standing or credit exemptions at universities, which means they can enter into the second or third year of their university degree, significantly shortening their study time. 

New Zealand also offers a similar system where students with VET qualifications can apply for undergraduate programs, reducing the time spent in university. Ireland offers students a direct entry pathway into higher education as well. Students can transfer to universities or institutes of technology (ITs) after completing their VET courses in areas like engineering, business, and science. 

The UK and Canada have frameworks that recognize certain VET qualifications and allow students to transition into degree programs, especially in applied fields such as engineering, healthcare, and hospitality. 

This is especially appealing for Singaporean students who may want to gain hands-on industry experience first, before committing to a full university degree. Additionally, students who might have initially pursued a VET qualification can later choose to upgrade to a bachelor’s degree in their desired field. 

Choosing the right VET course is an important step toward a successful career. When selecting a VET provider and institution overseas, here’s what Singaporean students should consider:  

Accredited Training 

Ensure the course is recognised by the professional bodies in the destination country, such as the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) or New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). Research on reviews and teaching staff can give a good insight into the course curriculum in addition to course descriptions. 

Personal Interests and Strengths 

Consider what you're passionate about. Do you enjoy working with people? A course in healthcare or hospitality may suit you. If you're interested in technology, look into IT or engineering programs. 

Location 

Think about whether you prefer studying in urban cities with access to a wider job market or smaller, regional areas, which may offer more community-based learning opportunities. Whether it’s in the UK, Australia or other countries, look for a university that offers you the best mix of lifestyle and standard of living. 

Job Market Demand and Industry Trends 

It’s essential to research the job prospects in the field you're considering. For example, fields such as nursing, aged care, hospitality, and digital marketing are growing rapidly, with a high demand for skilled workers. Working in an industry with a shortage of workers will also increase your chances of getting a work visa after you graduate.  

Stay up to date with industry trends and future job requirements. A VET course in renewable energy, for example, could set you up for a career in an expanding field like sustainability. 

Cost 

While tuition fees shouldn’t vary too much for the same course, the kind of financial assistance and scholarships available to you may differ more substantially. Look for an institution that offers scholarships and determine if you are eligible, some scholarships are only awarded to students in certain countries and regions. 

International Student Support 

Find an institution that offers well-planned support for international students, as they can advise on essentials such as accommodation, student welfare, and post-graduate employment opportunities.

To gain admission to vocational education training courses in English-speaking countries such as Australia, there are a few requirements that you will need for entry. 

• An IELTS (Academic) overall score of 5.5 and no less than 5.0 in each section, or a Cambridge certificate (FCE or higher). Depending on the institution, there may be preliminary English tests before admission is granted. Visit IDP IELTS to get more information about IELTS. 

• You will be required to have completed high school in your home country. (Depending on the institution and country, this requirement could range slightly lower or higher) 

• Depending on your study destination, you will have to get the required student or study visa that will cover the duration of the training course you are enrolling in. 

• You might also need to provide additional documentation such as proof of employment in certain roles if you are pursuing higher training courses such as the vocational graduate diploma. 

Choosing the right VET institute is key to ensuring entry into the sector of your choice. Our IDP education counsellors are experts in guiding students towards the best-fit VET pathways. We will guide you through your options as well as the necessary application processes for your provider and the required visas. Speak to our international education consultants now for free. 

If you have questions, do submit an enquiry form to us and let us help you in your journey.