ACS, VETASSESS, or TRA: Choose WRONG and you'll ruin your Skills Assessment! The ultimate guide to avoid mistakes.

If you're planning to migrate to Australia or you're already in the country and want to work as a professional, the Skills Assessment is a crucial step to validate your education and work experience.However, since several authorities are responsible for this process, it’s common to feel confused when choosing the right assessing body.

Which authority do you need? ACS, VETASSESS, or TRA?

In this blog, we’ll explain the differences between these authorities, which types of professionals are assessed by each one, and how to choose the right option for your Skills Assessment. We’ll also show you how we can help streamline the process.

What is a Skills Assessment and why do you need it?

Before diving into the differences between ACS, VETASSESS, and TRA, let’s first clarify what a Skills Assessment is.A Skills Assessment is a process through which an Australian authority evaluates whether your academic qualifications and work experience meet the Australian standards for a specific job or occupation.

This process is essential for applying for a skilled work visa or for validating your work experience if you plan to work in Australia in the area that matches your qualifications and skills.

Which authority matches your professional profile?

1. ACS – Australian Computer Society

Who should apply through ACS?

ACS is the assessing authority for IT professionals. If you work in fields like computer science, software development, systems engineering, cybersecurity, or other IT-related areas, your Skills Assessment must be done through this organization.

What are the most common requirements?

• Education or experience in IT: Either hold a degree in IT or demonstrate significant work experience in the field.

• Supporting documents for your work experience: Detailed reference letters + proof of payments (such as payslips, tax contributions, bank statements, etc.).

• Identity documents and updated CV: Valid passport, transcripts, and a professional CV that accurately reflects your experience.

  
  

Why ACS?

ACS is the most specialized authority for IT professionals. If your occupation is listed on the MLTSSL or STSOL and is linked to the tech field, ACS is the correct body for your Skills Assessment.

2. VETASSESS – Vocational Education and Training Assessment Services.

Who should apply through VETASSESS?

VETASSESS is the most common assessing authority for skilled workers seeking to migrate to Australia. This includes occupations in healthcare, engineering, education, accounting, and many more.

What are the most common requirements?

• Be a qualified worker in your occupation (e.g. carpenters, nurses, architects, etc.).

• In some cases, VETASSESS may request an additional assessment of your qualifications or work experience if they don't fully match Australian standards.

  
  

Why VETASSESS?

It’s the go-to authority for those with occupations that require vocational qualifications or a combination of technical training and work experience. If you work in fields such as education or trades, chances are your Skills Assessment will need to go through VETASSESS.

3. TRA – Trades Recognition Australia.

Who should apply through TRA?

TRA is the designated authority for skilled workers in manual or technical trades. If you’re an electrician, plumber, mechanic, carpenter, or work in another hands-on trade, TRA is the right entity to assess your skills.

What are the most common requirements?

• Sufficient work experience in the trade (generally 3 to 5 years).

• In some cases, TRA may require you to complete a practical assessment, depending on your occupation.

  
  

Why TRA?

If your occupation is on the list of technical trades and you have a vocational or technical background, TRA is the best option to validate your skills. This authority specializes in manual trades and understands the specific challenges and requirements of these professions.

How to choose the right authority for your Skills Assessment.

To choose the correct authority, consider the following:

• Your occupation: Is it in the IT field, technical trades, or a skilled profession?

• Your education: If you hold a university or vocational degree, the required assessment might differ.

• Your work experience: Depending on how long you’ve worked in your field, some authorities may require more documentation than others.

  
  

The most important thing is to make sure you’re choosing the correct authority for your specific occupation. At SkillsPRO, we help you understand all these factors and guide you in selecting the best path for your migration process.

Our services include:

✅ Review and preparation of all required documents.

✅ Official NAATI-certified translations of your qualifications and relevant documents.

✅ Complete guidance on which documents are essential for your specific occupation.

✅ Review of reference letters to ensure they meet the exact VETASSESS requirements.

✅ Free consultation to help you understand your case and provide the best options.👉 Book your free consultation [here].

Choosing the right authority for your Skills Assessment is crucial to ensure your work experience is properly validated. If you’re unsure about the best option for your case, SkillsPRO is here to help you make the right decision.

Your future in Australia begins with a well-planned first step. Make it count from the start!

If you’d like more information about the Skills Assessment process, migration, or just want to connect with other professionals, join our WhatsApp group: Latino Professionals in Australia 🇦🇺.Share experiences, ask questions, and find support on your path to permanent residency. You can also join our Facebook group here.