Start TAFE Now Course Options

How to ApplySTN Eligibility

The Start TAFE Now (STN) program offers you the opportunity to gain real trade skills and qualifications while still completing high school. You may be eligible to study a fee-free course funded by the Queensland Government under the VET in Schools (VETiS) program. The courses advertised as VETiS funded are dependent on eligibility criteria. If eligible, you can complete only one program using VETiS funding. 

Qualifications that are not funded under the VETiS program, are available to study as a full-fee paying course.

Applications for Start TAFE Now (STN) are open throughout the year. Course intakes will differ depending on course availability. Refer to the course page for more information.

Depending on what you choose to study, your course may be supported by a government subsidy. For the most up-to-date information, visit Start TAFE Now.

VET Student Loans

VET Student Loans is an Australian Government loan scheme to assist eligible students studying diploma level and above qualifications to pay their tuition fees. It cannot be used for other study-related costs such as accommodation or textbooks. 

To find out more, go to VET Student Loan.

Applications for Start TAFE Now (STN) 2026 intakes will open on 2 September 2025. Course intakes will differ depending on course availability. Refer to the course page for more information.

Depending on what you choose to study, your course may be supported by a government subsidy. For the most up-to-date information, visit our Start TAFE Now Entry Requirements page.

VET in Schools (VETiS) Funded Courses

As a high school student, you may be eligible for the Queensland Government’s VET in Schools (VETiS) program, subject to meeting eligibility criteria. 

Non-Subsidised Courses 

CQUniversity offers the following non-subsidised courses for 2026 as part of the Start TAFE Now program. This means that you will be charged the Fee for Service amount. Payment plans are available for eligible applicants. To learn more, visit Paying for TAFE. 

Please carefully consider your training options before committing to a training course, as this may exhaust your entitlement to further Queensland Government subsidised training. CQUniversity is an approved Skills Assure supplier with the Government Department of Trade, Employment and Training.