The College of Australian Training has gone into voluntary administration, leaving 450 hospitality, hairdressing and beauty students' education uncertain.

The organisation, which has 35 locations across Australia, has blamed recent Federal Government changes to TAFE funding for its downfall.

Administrators hope to sell the business, and have been encouraged by the interest shown so far.

"It is far too early for us to definitively say why the company got into financial difficulty," administrator Sam Kaso said.

"But according to management the company suffered, like a large number of other companies in the sector, from recent Commonwealth Government changes to VET FEE HELP legislation.

"We are seeking urgent expressions of interest for the purchase of the business as a going concern that will hopefully provide continuity for the students and ongoing employment for the staff."

Mother and daughter hairdressing students, Natasha and Kristen Long, only found out that the Townsville college had entered administration when they arrived for class on Monday.

Kristen and Natasha Long (L-R) only found out that the Townsville college had entered administration on Monday. ( ABC News: Jesse Dorsett )

Kirsten Long was due to receive her certificate in the next couple of weeks.

"I only had to do two more hair applications and then I'd be finished - it is disappointing," she said.

Natasha Long already works in the beauty industry but went back to study with her daughter so that she could earn more.

"Being a single parent with four kids to feed it makes it hard," he said.

"I'm trying to better my skills and make myself more useful on the floor of the salon where I work would certainly help."

Kirsten Long said her future was now in limbo, as she would need to enrol in the same course with another training provider.

"Things are really quiet in the beauty industry - I know it's everywhere but particularly in the beauty, I'm watching so many salons close," she said.

Natasha Long said it was frustrating.

"I have heard that other people have got personal items in there so I think it's a little bit unfair - we're all locked out," she said.

"There's nothing we can do about it."

The company is Queensland based and has colleges in Townsville, Cairns, Maroochydore, and on the Gold Coast.

The first creditors meeting will be held in Brisbane next Tuesday.