FAQ

What are course codes?

Course codes are given either before the the qualification title or in smaller print underneath it:

1. ACAS has no control over the frequent changes in unit codes, which seldom affect students.
2. Courses of the same name can have different course codes. This normally occurs when a new version of the same qualification is accredited or endorsed. It can also occur if different organisations have their own versions of the same qualification independently accredited. Units of the same name can have different unit codes for similar reasons.
3. Unlike endorsed courses, accredited courses have an accreditation expiry date.

How long will your qualification take?

Each qualification is allocated enough time for an entry-level student to acquire the skills and knowledge of the qualification. These periods also affect the length of time for Austudy eligibility. Times are shorter for students who already have relevant experience, and longer for part-time students.

For the qualifications offered by ACAS, typical periods for full time students are as follows:

Certificate I:	0.5 year
Certificate II:	0.5 year
Certificate III:	1 year
Certificate IV:	0.5 – 1 year
Diploma:	1 – 2 years
Advanced Diploma:	1 year
Graduate Diploma:	1-2 years

What about Austudy?

Full-time students can get Austudy, Abstudy, or Youth Allowance. Ask the staff person enrolling you about current arrangements, because ACAS only keeps Centrelink registration for programs that have Centrelink allowance students in them. You should also check with Centrelink regarding the requirements that affect your circumstances.

As a student getting one of these benefits, you will need to deal with Centrelink. You should quote the Centrelink Institution Code for ACAS: 6P200. It should enable your Centrelink officer to access the details of your course.