What if my degree is not directly related to the occupation being assessed, but I have relevant work experience? For TRA

If you are in the process of migrating to Australia and need a Skills Assessment through Trades Recognition Australia (TRA), you may be concerned that your academic qualification is not directly related to the occupation you have experience in. However, this is not always an insurmountable obstacle. Here’s what happens in these cases and how you can maximize your chances of a positive assessment.

What does TRA assess in the Skills Assessment?

TRA is the authority responsible for assessing technical and vocational occupations for migration purposes in Australia. Its goal is to determine whether a candidate has the skills, knowledge, and experience equivalent to Australian standards in their occupation.

The main factors TRA considers are:

• Academic training and certifications.

• Relevant work experience in the nominated occupation.

• Practical skills and knowledge gained on the job.

  
  

Is it mandatory to have a degree in the field?

Not always. While having relevant academic training makes the process easier, TRA also takes proven work experience into account. Depending on the assessment program you apply to, you may be able to compensate for the lack of a specific qualification with years of practical experience in the occupation.

What are the options if your qualification doesn't match your assessed occupation?

If your qualification is not directly related to the occupation you want to assess, consider the following:

• Recognition of work experience: In many cases, TRA allows applicants to offset the lack of specific qualifications with years of proven experience.

  Generally, at least three to five years of work experience in the nominated occupation are required, depending on the pathway you follow.

• The correct pathway for your assessment:

  • Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP): For individuals residing outside of Australia seeking to validate their skills in specific occupations.

  • Job Ready Program (JRP): For those who have studied in Australia and need additional work experience.

  • Migration Skills Assessment (MSA): For those wishing to migrate to Australia based on their experience and studies, even if their qualification is not fully aligned with the occupation.

• Key documentation to support your experience:

  • Employer reference letters.

  • Employment contracts.

  • Payslips or tax statements.

  • Evidence of supplementary training, such as related courses and certifications.

    
    

The Skills Assessment process with TRA can be complex, especially if your qualification is not directly related to your occupation. At SkillsPRO, we help you build a solid application and meet all the requirements. With us, you can:

✅ Receive advice on the most suitable pathway based on your profile.

✅ Get support in preparing key documents, such as reference letters and employment evidence.

✅ Identify strategies to strengthen your application, compensating for the lack of a specific qualification with relevant work experience.

✅ Avoid common mistakes that may delay your assessment or lead to a negative outcome.

💡 We also offer a 100% FREE 15-minute diagnostic session! In this consultation, we will evaluate your profile and give personalized recommendations to maximize your chances of success.

📌 Book your session now and move forward with confidence in your migration process. Click here to schedule your consultation.

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