Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL)

What is VCAL?vcal

The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) is a hands-on option for students in Years 11 and 12. VCAL is a great career pathway for practically-minded and career-focused students wanting to complete their secondary education. VCAL gives you practical work-related experience, as well as literacy and numeracy skills and the opportunity to build personal skills that are important for life and work.     

VCAL is an accredited secondary certificate like the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). VCAL focuses on careers based 'hands-on learning' whereas the VCE is widely used by students as a pathway to university. Students who study the VCAL are more likely to be interested in continuing their studies in TAFE, doing an apprenticeship, or finding a job after they complete Year 12.

Studying VCAL through Wodonga TAFE provides:

  • a natural progression to further qualifications (for example, study at Certificate III, IV or Diploma level, recognition of prior learning, a wide range of units and courses)
  • supported learner services
  • professionally-trained career counsellors and advisors
  • hands-on learning
  • studying in an adult learning environment
  • individual study plans and individualised support for your needs
  • partnerships with key industries.

Wodonga TAFE VCAL brochure (PDF 448Kb)

Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA)

VCAL Information Booklet for Students and Parents

Are there any entry requirements?

You must be over 16 years of age to enrol in VCAL but we will consider variations to this. You need to attend an interview before your enrolment can be accepted.

How do I apply?

Download the VCAL Application form (DOC 36Kb) or contact Foundation Studies on 02 6055 6685 to request that a form be sent to you, and send your completed application form to:

VCAL Program Area Leader, Foundation Studies, Wodonga TAFE
PO Box 963, Wodonga, Vic 3689

An interview will be arranged and you will be advised of your appointment time. If you cannot attend the interview please contact Foundation Studies BEFORE the interview to reschedule.

Phone 02 6055 6685 | Email foundationstudies@wodongatafe.edu.au 

What do I study?

VCAL course information

The VCAL has three levels - foundation, intermediate, and senior. You start and complete your VCAL at the level that matches your needs and abilities. Your appropriate VCAL level will be discussed and decided upon at interview.

VCAL's flexibility allows you to design an individual study program that suits your interests and learning needs. You will study units from the following four compulsory strands.

  • Strand 1: Literacy and numeracy skills
  • Strand 2: Industry-specific skills
  • Strand 3: Work-related skills
  • Strand 4: Personal development skills.

How long will it take me to complete the VCAL?

Students complete a level of the VCAL in one year.

How is the VCAL assessed?

You must successfully achieve each learning outcome in each unit or module of your VCAL program. Your teacher will explain the requirements you need in order to meet the learning outcomes for VCAL units. You do not need to achieve a specific grade to successfully complete any units or modules that count towards your VCAL. VCE and other VET and accredited courses/certificates are assessed in accordance with existing requirements.

What do I get after successfully completing the VCAL?

If you successfully complete your VCAL program, you will receive a VCAL certificate at either the foundation, intermediate, or senior level. You will also receive a statement of results which lists all VCAL and VET (vocational education and training) units that you have successfully completed.

What are my options once I have completed the VCAL?

VCAL provides practical work-related experiences and a qualification that will be recognised by employers, other education providers and other TAFEs. You can then transition into work, an apprenticeship or traineeship, and/or to further training in TAFE.

If you start studying for your VCAL at foundation or intermediate levels and successfully complete it, you may consider going on to complete either the intermediate or senior levels of VCAL. After this, you may also consider completing a diploma, and then an advanced diploma, before you articulate your studies into a university pathway.

Student records and results

You may access your personal details by contacting the VET administration officer at the Victorian Assessment Software System (VASS) office.

Phone 03 9651 4371

Alternatively, contact the VCAL Program Area Leader at Wodonga TAFE.

Phone 02 6055 6685 | Email foundationstudies@wodongatafe.edu.au