Introduction
If you’re on a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), choosing the right course can make a big difference to your career prospects, employability, and future immigration pathways in Australia.
In this 2026 guide, we’ll explain:
- Whether you can study on a 485 visa
- What types of courses are suitable for you
- The best courses for 485 visa holders in Australia
Can You Study on a 485 Visa in Australia?
The answer is yes – 485 visa holders are allowed to study in Australia.
However, there are important things to consider:
- Your study must not interfere with your full-time work rights
- Courses should be career-relevant and add value to your qualifications
- Some courses may help with skills development, employability, or future migration pathways
Since 485 visa is not a student visa, course selection must be strategic. If you wish to know which course you should select, contact SOL Edu today at 07 3003 1899 for FREE consultation and FREE admission process.
Why Study on a 485 Visa?
Many graduates choose to study while on a 485 visa because they can:
- Gain practical, job-ready skills which can be very beneficial for your current and future career
- Improve employability in the Australian job market
- Strengthen your professional profile
- Explore pathways to skilled employment or further study
Studying while under a 485 visa is a good choice because you don’t need to apply for a student visa. The key is that you should consider the course that can benefit for your future career and migration plan.
Best Courses for 485 Visa Holders in Australia (2026)
Below are some of the most popular and practical course options for 485 visa holders.
1. Teaching Courses
Who it’s suitable for:
Graduates from a bachelor’s or master course, but would like to explore teaching career in Australia
Popular courses:
- Graduate Certificate/Diploma of Early Childhood Teaching
- Graduate Diploma in Education (Teaching)
- Master of Teaching
Why choose this path:
- Early childhood/primary/secondary teaching is in very high demand in Australia
- Teaching occupation is in the long-strategic list, and it is also listed in migration programs of both Federation Government (visa 189) and most of Australian states/territories (visa 190/491)
2. Early Childhood Education & Care Courses
Who it’s suitable for:
Graduates passionate about working with children or education support roles.
Popular courses:
- Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
- Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Key advantages:
- Childhood Education and Care is a high demand sector in Australia, which means it’s easy for you to get a job after completing the course
- Practical placements, which means the course will provide you with practical skills and local experience
3. Community Services & Aged Care Courses
Who it’s suitable for:
Graduates who are interested in care, support work, or community-focused roles.
Popular courses:
- Certificate III in Individual Support
- Certificate IV in Community Services
Why it’s popular:
- Aged care/community service is a strong demand career across Australia
- The course will provide you with practical skills and work-ready training
- After completing this course and getting a job, there will be a pathway for you to migrate to Australia
- Suitable for career changers as it is not difficult to find a job in this area
4. Building and Construction courses
Who it’s suitable for:
- The hands-on professional: Suitable for those who enjoy physical work, problem-solving on-site, and want to become a licensed tradesperson (e.g., Carpenter, Bricklayer, Plumber).
- The technical manager: Suitable for people with a degree who want to move into white-collar roles. You would manage budgets, safety, and large-scale project timelines.
Popular courses:
- Certificate III in Carpentry
- Certificate IV in Building & Construction
- Diploma of Building & Construction (Building)
- Master of Construction Management
Why consider these courses:
- Strong Migration and Career Pathways: Construction Managers and Trades (Carpenters, Plumbers) are consistently on Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List. This makes these courses a primary choice for those looking for high-paying jobs or long-term visa options in Australia.
- In Australia, building and construction is a booming sector with a severe skills shortage. After completing a building and construction course, you will have a plenty of opportunity to develop your skills and career in this area.
5. IT, Digital & Project-Based Courses
Who it’s suitable for:
IT, engineering, or tech-focused graduates.
Popular courses:
- Diploma of Information Technology
- Project management short courses
- Digital business or data-related programs
Why consider these courses:
- Builds practical skills aligned with the Australian job market
- Supports professional development
- Keeps skills current in a fast-changing industry
6. Business & Management Courses
Who it’s suitable for:
Graduates from business/IT/engineering who want in-demand skills in Australia
Popular courses:
- Master of Business Analytics / Data Analytics
- Outcomes: After completing this course, you can work in analyst roles (data/business), business reporting, business intelligence tools
Why choose this path:
- Develops leadership, communication, and workplace skills
- Flexible study options (part-time / blended)
- Highly relevant across many industries
7. Accounting & Finance Courses
Who it’s suitable for:
Accounting, finance, or commerce graduates seeking practical Australian experience.
Popular courses:
- Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping
- Diploma of Accounting
- Professional Course in Accounting
- Master of Professional Accounting / Accounting
Benefits:
- Builds hands-on skills using Australian accounting standards
- Enhances employability with local qualifications
How SOL Edu Helps 485 Visa Holders
At SOL Edu, we specialise in helping 485 visa holders choose suitable, compliant, and career-focused courses.
We help you with:
- Course selection based on your background
- Understanding your study options while on a 485 visa
- Free enrolment assistance with trusted training providers
- Clear, honest advice at NO cost.
Contact us today at 07 3003 1899 or [email protected] for free advice!