Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) regulates all Australian qualifications, providing clear rules on the level of education each qualification title represents and must provide.
Each qualification generally leads into the next qualification up the education framework. Having a system that is standard across the whole country makes it easier for people to continue their education as there is a clear pathway to follow. It also makes transferring between different states/territories and universities much easier as there is no confusion caused by differing qualification titles and education levels.
International students and the AQF
The AQF has advantages for international students. It makes course searches much easier as the qualification titles are the same throughout Australia. This means that you can focus on finding the best course and university for your needs, without also having to spend time looking into what each qualification title means. In addition, international students who complete a qualification within the AQF will easily be able to understand the entrance requirements for higher qualifications; for example, from undergraduate to postgraduate study.
The AQF also contributes to the worldwide recognition of Australian qualifications, as it is easy for other countries to understand what level of education each Australian qualification represents.
There are a limited number of courses that are not part of the AQF but are also available to international students. These courses, foundation and bridging courses for example, are designed to help students meet course entry requirements or to lead to further study resulting in an AQF qualification. |