Secondary Senior Yrs 11-12 Boys and Girls (CRICOS course code 004957C) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by Somerset College Limited over 2 years. This course is designed for international students seeking to complete their high school education in Australia, leading to the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) or equivalent. Somerset College, a private co-educational school located in Mudgeeraba on the Gold Coast, offers a comprehensive curriculum for Years 11 and 12. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00521G), Somerset College meets the rigorous standards set by the Australian Government for enrolling international students. With ESOS Act protections in place, students can be assured of quality education and consumer rights. This page provides an in-depth look at the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and visa pathways, helping you make an informed decision about studying senior secondary education in Queensland. Use this guide as a starting point, and always verify the latest details directly with Somerset College or the Department of Home Affairs.
Secondary Senior Yrs 11-12 Boys and Girls (CRICOS course code 004957C) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by Somerset College Limited over 2 years. This course is ideal for international students who have completed Year 10 or equivalent and wish to study in Australia for their final two years of high school. The program prepares students for university entry, vocational pathways, or further training. Somerset College is a well-regarded private school on the Gold Coast, offering a supportive learning environment with modern facilities. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00521G), it is authorised to enrol overseas students and must adhere to the ESOS Act, ensuring compliance with national standards. The course covers a broad range of subjects, including English, mathematics, science, humanities, and electives, leading to the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).
This course falls under the field of 'General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes' (12 Mixed Field Programmes -> 1201 General Education Programmes -> 120101 General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes). Students study a broad curriculum designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and subject-specific knowledge. Typical subjects include English (or English as an Additional Language), mathematics (general, methods, or specialist), sciences (biology, chemistry, physics), humanities (history, geography, economics), and elective options such as art, drama, music, business, or IT. The program also emphasises personal development, study skills, and preparation for tertiary education. While the specific syllabus is set by Somerset College and the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA), the general aim is to provide a balanced education that meets university entrance requirements and fosters lifelong learning. Assessment includes exams, assignments, and practical projects.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered in English on campus at Somerset College in Mudgeeraba, Queensland. This is a single qualification course (no dual qualification offered). There is no online or blended option; attendance is required. International students must maintain satisfactory attendance and course progress to comply with visa conditions. The academic year typically follows the Queensland school calendar, with four terms and breaks between. Students can usually commence at the start of Term 1 or Term 2, subject to availability and the school's enrolment policies.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$64,810 for the full 2-year program. Non-tuition fees (materials, excursions, uniforms, etc.) are estimated at A$17,134, bringing the estimated total to A$81,944. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are NOT included. OSHC is mandatory for international students; the cost varies by provider and duration but typically ranges from A$500 to A$1,000 per year. Living costs on the Gold Coast are estimated at around A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for accommodation, food, and transport. Always confirm the latest fees directly with Somerset College by visiting www.somerset.qld.edu.au.
International students must meet specific entry criteria set by Somerset College. For this course, a minimum English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) is typically required. At the senior secondary level, students should have successfully completed Year 10 or its equivalent in their home country. Academic transcripts and school reports will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Some may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if they do not meet the academic or English requirements — refer to Somerset College for available options. Evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel is also needed for visa purposes. Note that entry requirements are determined by the provider and are subject to change; always check directly with Somerset College.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no structured work placement or internship requirement as part of the curriculum. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake paid work in Australia within the limits set by their visa conditions: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled school holidays. Work must not interfere with course attendance or academic progress.
This course is delivered at Somerset College Limited located in Mudgeeraba, Queensland, on the Gold Coast. Mudgeeraba is a suburb in the Gold Coast hinterland, approximately 10 km from Surfers Paradise and 90 km south of Brisbane. The Gold Coast is a popular study destination with over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. The city is home to a large international student community, with excellent public transport including buses and the G:link light rail connecting major areas. Living costs on the Gold Coast are moderate: indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation is around $200–$300, groceries $80–$120, and public transport $30–$50. Students enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with beaches, parks, and cultural attractions.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Applicants must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention, provide evidence of OSHC, and show sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs ($29,710 per year for a single student), and travel. Students under 18 years of age typically require a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) for an accompanying parent or guardian, or must have a school-approved welfare arrangement. Somerset College may offer guardianship services. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All visa conditions are set by the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
The Gold Coast is one of Australia's most popular study destinations, offering a subtropical climate, world-famous beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle. With over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and more than 1,500 courses, it caters to all study levels. For senior secondary students, the city has several private and public schools with strong academic programs. Living costs are more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, with average rents of $250–$350 per week for a room in a shared house. Public transport is reliable, and many schools offer bus services. The Gold Coast also has a vibrant student community, with events, sports, and cultural activities. Consider your preferences for school size, curriculum focus, and location when choosing. Somerset College offers a balanced education with strong pastoral care.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course at Somerset College:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Senior Secondary Certificate of Education), field (General Programmes), and location (Gold Coast, QLD). Confirm that Somerset College is the right fit for your academic goals and budget. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Review entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts and English test results, and submit an application to Somerset College. Check application deadlines and any supporting documents needed (e.g., references, personal statement). Pay the application fee if required. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, Somerset College will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For students under 18, arrange guardianship. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to start your Australian high school journey? Contact Somerset College directly for the latest information on enrolment and fees, or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
All Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses in Queensland →
Secondary Senior Yrs 11-12 Boys and Girls is a CRICOS-registered programme at Somerset College Limited. 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.