IT Professional Year Program

The IT Professional Year Program (often called Professional Year or PY) is a nationally recognized career development program specifically for recent IT graduates from Australian universities. It’s designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional employment in the Australian tech industry.

What Is the IT Professional Year Program?

It is not a degree, but a structured professional training and work experience program recognized by the Australian Government. The program was developed by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) and is approved by the Department of Home Affairs.

During the program, many students can work part-time or full-time (depending on visa conditions), allowing them to earn while preparing for their long-term career.

Duration & Structure

Typically, the IT Professional Year Program runs for approximately 44–52 weeks (about 10–12 months) and includes three main components:

Classroom-Based Professional Training (≈32 Weeks)

You attend formal classes, usually 1 day per week.
Focus areas include:
- Australian workplace culture & communication skills
- Teamwork, meetings, presentations
- Resume writing and interview preparation
- IT business and professional skills
This stage prepares you to operate confidently in an Australian professional environment.

Internship Preparation (≈2 Weeks)

Providers assist with:
- Resume targeting
- Interview techniques
- Placement planning
This bridges coursework and real-world work placement.

Industry Internship (≈12 Weeks)

You undertake a professional internship placement with an Australian IT employer.
This is usually unpaid but valuable for hands-on real work experience and networking.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the IT Professional Year Program in Australia, you normally must:

✅ Have completed an Australian Bachelor’s or master’s degree in IT or a related field (minimum 2 years of study in Australia), or Professional Year Programs
✅ Hold or have applied for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) that is valid for at least 12 months, Professional Year Programs
✅ Meet English language requirements (e.g., IELTS 6.0 overall with no band less than 6.0, or equivalent) Professional Year Programs
➡️ Some providers require a pre-entry interview with the education provider.

Note: You generally cannot undertake the Professional Year on a standard student visa (Subclass 500) — holders need a work-capable visa.

Benefits of the Professional Year Program

Boost Your Employability

Gain Australian Work Experience

Networking Opportunities

Migration Points Toward Permanent Residency

Improves Job Readiness

Why Choose the Professional Year Program in Australia?

For international graduates planning to apply for Australian Permanent Residency, the Professional Year Program is one of the most effective pathways to: Gain local experience, Improve PR points, Transition smoothly from study to professional employment in Australia

The IT Professional Year Program in Australia is a smart choice for international IT graduates who want to:
✔ Gain Australian work experience
✔ Improve job readiness
✔ Earn extra PR points
✔ Build a professional network
✔ Increase long-term career opportunities