Pre-Professional FAQ
Entry & Eligibility
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What is the minimum age for each program?
The recommended age for each course can be found on the individual course pages.
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Certificate III in Dance: Our Certificate III in Dance is open to students in Year 10 (or equivalent) and above. Most students opt to complete this certificate alongside Year 10 at school.
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Certificate IV in Dance: Our Certificate IV in Dance is open to students in Year 11 or 12 (or equivalent) and above. Most students opt to complete the Certificate IV alongside Year 11 and/or 12 at school.
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Diploma and Advanced Diploma: These courses are recommended for students who have completed high school (or equivalent).
Are there any pre-requisites for your courses?
Yes. Entry to all courses is by audition, and applicants must meet a minimum standard to be accepted.
For entry into Advanced Diploma courses, students must also have successfully completed the preceding Diploma qualification.
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How do I audition?
To audition, complete the online audition form and select your preferred audition type.
QCD offers several audition options:
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Live Audition Experience Day – a select day of workshop classes with industry-leading guest teachers and choreographers at QCD. Keep an eye on our socials for dates and event information
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Join a QCD class – participate in a regular class alongside our current cohort. An individual date and time for this audition type will be arranged by QCD upon receipt of application
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Online Video Submission – submit a video audition for review. Full details of what to include are outlined on the audition form
What is the deadline for auditions?
Applications are accepted year-round. Please note, however, that enrolment for nationally recognised qualifications closes at the end of Week 5 in Term 1 each year.
Study Pathways
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Can I continue high school studies while training at QCD?
Yes. Our part-time programs are popular with students in Years 10–12. Both Certificate III and IV contribute QCE credit points and can count towards an ATAR.
Students may also enrol in full-time training while completing high school via distance education. We recommend Cairns School of Distance Education for students pursuing this option. [Link to CSDE website]
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Is there an option for part-time study?
Yes. QCD’s flexible part-time programs are designed for students wanting to combine their school studies with pre-professional training. They’re also a great way to experience QCD’s full-time environment and explore future full-time pathways. Find out more about QCD’s part-time programs here [Link to Part-Time programs]
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What’s the difference between 1-year and 2-year study options?
All qualifications up to the Diploma level can be completed in one year. Some students choose to spread their studies over two years to better manage their workload. Students must confirm their intention to complete the course over two years by the end of June in their first year.
Our Advanced Diploma courses are designed to form an additional year of training once the preceding Diploma qualification has been completed.
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Does QCD offer part-time and full-time training options that do not require enrolment into a nationally recognised qualification?
Yes. All of QCD’s programs can be undertaken without enrolling in a nationally recognised qualification. This allows students to experience the same exceptional training without the formal assessment components. A slightly different fee structure applies for non-accredited enrolments, which can be provided upon request.
Fees, Scholarships & Assistance
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Can I receive government assistance like HECS or Fee-HELP?
No. While QCD is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and all courses are accredited and nationally recognised, we are not currently approved for VET Student Loans. Students are therefore not eligible for HECS or VET Fee-HELP assistance.
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Do you offer scholarships?
Yes. QCD awards a limited number of scholarships each year. These are granted at the discretion of the QCD team and cannot be applied for directly.
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Do you offer payment schedules longer than 12 months?
No. Students should carefully consider the financial commitment before enrolling to ensure they can meet their fee obligations.
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Is there a discount for paying upfront?
No. QCD does not offer discounts for early or lump-sum payments.
Accommodation & Logistics
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Do you provide accommodation?
Yes. QCD has a limited number of accommodation options for full-time students. Priority is given to international, interstate, and under-18 students. Students can join the accommodation waitlist after enrolment, but places are subject to availability and not guaranteed.
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What are the contact hours?
Student Training hours at QCD typically run from 8:30am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday, with a schedule that includes 3–4 practical classes each day.
Our Administration Office is open from 8:00am to 5:30pm, Monday to Friday, for all general enquiries and support.
Can you provide an example of the timetable?
Timetables vary depending on the course. Please refer to the individual course pages throughout the website for more information on the types of classes included in each program.