Are you thinking about studying a post-school qualification?
There are a number of options available for people seeking asylum, and the ASRC can help you find out more and refer you to education providers.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible for ASVET, you must be living in Victoria and meet one of the following visa criteria:
• Hold any humanitarian, protection, or refugee visa in Australia, or
• Have applied for one and hold a bridging visa for this purpose, or
• Have made an application under s.417 or s.48b of the Migration Act 1958 and hold a bridging visa
You must also have study rights. Work rights are required for programs that include work placement.
Call (03) 9274 9807 to make an appointment with an Education Coordinator. Available to Clients and non-clients.
COURSES
ASVET covers a wide range of courses, including:
• VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education — years 11 and 12)
• Foundation Studies — EAL (English as an Additional Language Certificates)
• VET Certificate levels I to IV
• Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas
Student Resources
For brochures and guides to help you find the right course and get started:
What other options are available?
University scholarships
People seeking asylum on temporary visas are not eligible for Commonwealth Supported Places, HECS or HELP loans.
However, universities across Australia offer dedicated scholarships for people seeking asylum and refugees on temporary visas.
→ Refugee Education Australia — scholarship database (updated 2025)
The ASRC also works directly with universities to provide information about scholarships and run information sessions. Contact us on (03) 9274 9807 for more information.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships and traineeships combine paid workplace training with formal classroom study. People seeking asylum eligible for ASVET may be able to enrol.
An ASRC Education Coordinator can advise further.
→ Apprenticeship Support Australia — what is an apprenticeship?
Call (03) 9274 9807 or (03) 7068 8114 to speak with an Education Coordinator.
Other studies
If you are looking to improve your English before or alongside vocational study, the ASRC now offers English classes directly to our clients.
Our new English classes are launching mid-2026 and are open to people seeking asylum and refugees at all skill levels.
→ Register your interest → /english-classes-register/
For other English language options in your area, including classes at community organisations and neighbourhood houses, speak with our Education Coordinators who can help you find what suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use your passport or Immicard to check your study and work rights:
Unfortunately, you are not eligible for the ASVET program. For information on TAFE access for people seeking asylum in all states and territories:
→ Refugee Education Australia — TAFE access by state (updated 2025)
Call us on (03) 9274 9807 to make an appointment with an Education Coordinator and discuss your needs and options, including our upcoming English classes launching mid-year.
Yes. If you are school-aged, you can study in a Victorian state primary or secondary school without paying international student fees. If you are older and want to complete VCE, ASVET is an option. Call (03) 9274 9807 to discuss further.
The ASRC offers a limited number of student placements each year, primarily through existing agreements with universities and TAFEs. Contact your education provider to enquire.
Education Coordinators · (03) 9274 9807 · education@asrc.org.au
Connect with us
Need help from the ASRC? Call 03 9326 6066 or visit us: Mon-Tue-Thur-Fri 10am -4pm. Closed on Wednesdays.