How to Apply
Your career in food starts here
Your complete guide to enrolling at TheFCA — whether you're a domestic or international student, studying a full qualification or applying through Recognition of Prior Learning.
Qualification offered at TheFCA (RTO 46517)
We deliver nationally recognised vocational qualifications in commercial cookery, hospitality, and related disciplines.
Check training.gov.au for the current list.
For Domestic students
Australian citizen, permanent resident, or New Zealand citizen
Full qualification — step by step
Research your qualification
Browse available qualifications on our website or visit training.gov.au. Review course duration, units of competency, entry requirements, and fees. Contact us if you're unsure which qualification suits your career goals.
Check entry requirements
Successful completion of Year 12 or equivalent, or at least two years of relevant work experience is required. Some Diploma-level courses may require a related Certificate IV. A Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) assessment is completed before enrolment in line with the 2025 Standards for RTOs.
Submit your application
Complete the online application form on our website. Attach certified copies of any supporting documents. A non-refundable application fee of A$500 applies.
Receive your letter of offer
Once your application is assessed you'll receive a Letter of Offer outlining your course, start date, fee schedule, and any conditions. Any approved Credit Transfer (CT) or RPL will be included here.
Accept your offer and pay fees
Sign and return your acceptance form, pay any initial fees as outlined, and submit evidence of any outstanding conditions.
Enrolment confirmed — prepare for orientation
You'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment with your orientation schedule, pre-course reading, uniform requirements, and a student handbook. Orientation is mandatory for all new students.
For International students
For students applying from overseas or currently in Australia on a student visa (subclass 500). TheFCA must hold CRICOS registration for your chosen course — confirm course codes with our International Admissions team before applying.
Full qualification — step by step
Research and select your course
Review qualifications available to international students, including course duration in weeks, total tuition fees, and living cost estimates. Attend an information session or contact our International Admissions team directly. All our courses are registered on CRICOS. Each course page shows its CRICOS code.
Confirm English Language Requirements
All international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores: IELTS Academic or General Training 6.0, PTE Academic 47, TOEFL iBT 67, or equivalent.
Submit your application
Apply online directly or through an authorised TheFCA education agent. All non-English documents must be accompanied by certified translations prepared by a NAATI-registered translator.
Receive your letter of offer
A conditional or unconditional Letter of Offer will be issued. This document is required for your student visa application. It will include your CRICOS course code, start date, total tuition fees, and any scholarship or discount arrangements.
Accept your offer and pay the deposit
Return your signed acceptance and pay the tuition deposit specified in your offer. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is issued once payment is received. The CoE is required to lodge your Australian Student Visa application.
Apply for student visa - Subclass 500
Lodge your visa application through the Australian Department of Home Affairs (ImmiAccount) using your CoE. You'll need to provide evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), financial capacity, and that you meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.
Arrive and attend orientation
Orientation is mandatory and covers your rights and obligations under the ESOS Act and National Code 2018, campus facilities, academic expectations, and student support services.
Documents Checklist
Prepare these documents before you apply to avoid delays. All copies must be certified.
All Applicants - Domestic and International
Government-issued photo ID (passport or driver's licence)
Unique Student Identifier (USI) — create at usi.gov.au
Prior academic transcripts or certificates
Completed enrolment form
International Applicants Only
Current valid passport (all pages with stamps)
English language test results (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE)
Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living costs
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy
Genuine Student (GS) requirement responses
Certified translations of non-English documents
Fees & Payment
Tuition fees, materials costs, and any applicable additional charges are listed directly on each course page so you can review the full cost of your chosen qualification before you apply. All fees are quoted in Australian dollars (AUD).
Once your application is approved, your complete fee structure — including your enrolment deposit amount, payment schedule, and any conditions — will be confirmed in your Letter of Offer. For international students, tuition fees are payable in advance per study period as outlined in your Written Agreement. If you have questions about fees before applying, our Admissions team is happy to walk you through the costs for your chosen course. There is no charge to enquire.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Already working in the industry?
Your skills and experience may count towards a nationally recognised qualification. RPL lets us formally assess what you already know — so you only study what you don't. No need to repeat training you've already mastered on the job.
Explore our courses
We envision nurturing individuals who will redefine the kitchens, restaurants, and the art of culinary experiences of tomorrow.
