Normally, when studying in Australia, international students tend to choose a course with an AQF level higher than their current qualification in order to demonstrate a logical academic progression and a genuine intention to improve their professional knowledge and skills. For example, students who have completed high school usually enrol in a Certificate, Diploma, or Bachelor programme, while those who already hold a Bachelor Degree often continue with a Graduate Diploma or Master Degree. This is an important factor during the visa assessment process because Australian immigration authorities evaluate whether the proposed study plan is reasonable within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
In cases where a student chooses a course with an AQF level lower than the qualification they already hold, they must prepare a clear, honest, and convincing Genuine Student statement. The explanation should demonstrate that studying at a lower AQF level is necessary for changing career direction, gaining practical skills, meeting specific industry requirements, or supporting long-term career development goals. Without a reasonable explanation, the visa application may raise concerns about the applicant’s genuine study intentions and could negatively affect the visa outcome.
The 10 AQF Qualification Levels
|
AQF LEVEL |
QUALIFICATIONS
|
ĐẶC ĐIỂM CHÍNH |
TRAINING SECTOR |
|
Level 1 |
Certificate I |
· Basic introductory knowledge and skills, preparing students for simple work tasks or further study |
VET / TAFE |
|
Level 2 |
Certificate II |
· Basic vocational skills for work environments with clear procedures and structured tasks |
VET / TAFE |
|
Level 3 |
Certificate III |
· Practical vocational training with the ability to work independently across various occupations |
VET / TAFE |
|
Level 4 |
Certificate IV |
· Advanced vocational level with the ability to supervise or manage more complex tasks |
VET / TAFE |
|
Level 5 |
Diploma |
· Professional and paraprofessional skills with the ability to analyse and solve problems |
VET / TAFE / Higher Education |
|
Level 6 |
Advanced Diploma / Associate Degree |
· Advanced technical or academic knowledge beyond Diploma level, with pathways into university study |
VET / TAFE / Higher Education |
|
Level 7 |
Bachelor Degree |
· Bachelor degree level with specialised academic knowledge and independent professional skills |
University |
|
Level 8 |
Bachelor Honours Degree / Graduate Certificate / Graduate Diploma |
· Postgraduate or Honours level requiring advanced academic and professional capability |
University |
|
Level 9 |
Master Degree |
· Master degree level with advanced research, analytical, and applied professional skills |
University |
|
Level 10 |
Doctoral Degree (PhD) |
· Doctoral level focused on independent research and the creation of new knowledge |
University / Research |