Secondary Senior Yrs 11-12 Girls & Boys (CRICOS course code 004867E) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by Downlands College Ltd over 1 year 12 months (~102 weeks). This course is designed for international students seeking a high-quality Australian secondary education in a private school setting. Downlands College Ltd, CRICOS provider 00494F, is a private institution located in Toowoomba, Queensland. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this course is registered on the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced directly from CRICOS, ensuring you have accurate, up-to-date information to make informed decisions about studying abroad. Whether you are planning to transition to Australian university or gain a world-recognised secondary qualification, this page covers fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa essentials.
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Secondary Senior Yrs 11-12 Girls & Boys (CRICOS course code 004867E) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by Downlands College Ltd over 1 year 12 months (~102 weeks). The course falls under the field of education 'Mixed Field Programmes' (12), specifically 'General Education Programmes' (1201) and 'General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes' (120101). This level provides students with a broad general education, typically leading to the award of a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (SSCE) upon successful completion. As a CRICOS-registered course, it guarantees compliance with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, protecting international students' rights. Downlands College Ltd is a private institution with CRICOS provider code 00494F, and this course is delivered at its Toowoomba campus. The indicative duration on CRICOS is 102 weeks, reflecting the standard two-year senior secondary program in Australia. Language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). There is no work component, ensuring the focus remains on academic achievement.
The Senior Secondary Certificate of Education is a foundational qualification that prepares students for further study, vocational training, or employment. In this program, students undertake a mix of core subjects and electives that develop critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills. Typical study areas include English, mathematics, science, humanities, and languages, along with optional subjects tailored to individual interests and career aspirations. This field of education (General Education Programmes) emphasises a well-rounded curriculum that meets Australian Curriculum standards. While specific subject offerings are determined by Downlands College Ltd, the course aims to equip students with the knowledge and competencies required for university entrance or skilled careers. It is important to note that this is not a VET course (VET national code N/A) and does not include a foundation studies component. The CRICOS register lists this course under general education, reflecting its broad academic scope. Graduates typically receive an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) if they meet state requirements, enabling them to apply for higher education across Australia.
The course duration is listed as 1 year 12 months (~102 weeks) on the CRICOS register. This equates to approximately two academic years, as senior secondary schooling in Australia typically spans Years 11 and 12. The language of instruction is English, and students are expected to have a sufficient level of English proficiency to engage with the curriculum. This is a single qualification, meaning students will graduate with a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education upon completion. There is no dual qualification or practical work component integrated into this course. Students attend classes on a full-time basis at the Downlands College campus in Toowoomba. The study mode is on-campus, face-to-face learning, providing a structured school environment with access to teachers, libraries, and extracurricular activities. International students should plan for the full duration, as student visa conditions require satisfactory course progress and attendance. It is advisable to confirm the exact start and end dates with Downlands College Ltd, as academic calendars may vary.
The indicative fees for Secondary Senior Yrs 11-12 Girls & Boys are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: these fees are set by the institution and are subject to change; always confirm directly with Downlands College Ltd before applying. Tuition fee: A$55,000. Non-tuition fees: A$47,000. Estimated total fees: A$102,000. The non-tuition component typically covers items such as enrolment fees, learning materials, student services, and possibly boarding (if applicable). Additional costs that are NOT included in the indicative total: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For Toowoomba, indicative weekly living costs are around A$400–A$600 (rent A$200–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, transport A$30–A$50). Downlands College Ltd may offer payment plans or detailed fee schedules on their website. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy does not charge any referral fees; all data is from the official CRICOS register.
Entry requirements for Secondary Senior Yrs 11-12 are determined by Downlands College Ltd and may include academic transcripts, English language proficiency, and any prerequisites for Year 11 entry. As a general guide, international students typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.0–5.5 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English). Students must have completed an equivalent of Australian Year 10 or its international equivalent to enter Year 11. For Year 12 entry, completion of Year 11 or equivalent is usually required. Downlands College may also conduct interviews or require evidence of satisfactory academic progress. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course, but the college may offer alternative entry pathways for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always check the institution's official website for the most current and specific entry criteria. Remember, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission – the provider makes the final decision.
No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work component. The program is focused entirely on academic study leading to the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holiday periods, subject to visa conditions. However, this course itself has no integrated work requirement. Students seeking work experience should discuss options with the college's careers service.
This course is delivered at Downlands Sacred Heart College in Toowoomba, Queensland. Toowoomba is a regional city about 1.5 hours west of Brisbane, known for its garden culture and affordable living. It has a population of around 180,000, including a growing international student community. The city is home to several CRICOS-registered providers, offering international students a choice of schools and homestay options. Public transport within Toowoomba includes bus services, and the campus is accessible via local routes. Living costs in Toowoomba are generally lower than in Brisbane, making it an attractive option for families. The college itself is a private, co-educational Catholic school with modern facilities. Students benefit from a supportive community and a safe environment. For up-to-date transport and accommodation details, visit the college's website or contact their international admissions office.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). As this is a secondary school course, students under 18 years of age at the time of application may require a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) for an accompanying parent or guardian to live in Australia and provide care. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies – applicants must demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa; OSHC providers offer basic medical and hospital insurance. Financial capacity evidence is required, showing you (or your sponsor) can cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays (conditions apply). After completing Year 12, students may explore pathway options such as university or vocational courses. Always verify current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps specific to Secondary Senior Yrs 11-12 Girls & Boys at Downlands College Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to compare Downlands College Ltd with other schools offering Senior Secondary programs. Filter by course level, field (General Education Programmes), and location (Toowoomba, QLD). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered – Downlands College Ltd (CRICOS 00494F) is fully registered.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Contact Downlands College Ltd’s international admissions team via their website. Submit academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS or equivalent), and any other required documents. Pay attention to application deadlines – schools often have intakes in January and July. The college will assess your eligibility and may conduct an interview.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. With the CoE, apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. You will need OSHC, evidence of funds, GTE statement, and passport. If under 18 and not accompanied by a parent/guardian, ensure welfare arrangements are in place. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Toowoomba offers a unique study experience: a regional city with a strong sense of community, lower cost of living than capital cities, and quality schools like Downlands College. The city has several CRICOS-registered providers, giving families options. With a population of about 180,000, it is large enough to have diverse services yet small enough to be safe and welcoming. Living costs: rent for a shared house A$150–A$250 per week per room; homestay A$250–A$350 per week including meals. Groceries and transport add about A$100–A$150 weekly. Toowoomba’s climate is mild with four seasons. It is well-connected to Brisbane via bus and car. If you prefer a quieter, more affordable environment with a strong school community, Toowoomba could be ideal. However, if you want a big-city lifestyle with many international student amenities, a Brisbane school might suit you better. Consider your family circumstances, the student's age, and personal preferences before deciding.
Ready to apply? Start your journey by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy and contact Downlands College Ltd for the latest application details.
All Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses in Queensland →
Secondary Senior Yrs 11-12 Girls & Boys is a CRICOS-registered programme at Downlands College Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.