Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) at Ascham School Ltd

Course Overview

Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) (CRICOS course code 007713K) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by Ascham School Ltd over 2 years. This course falls under the field of education 'General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes' (code 120101) within Mixed Field Programmes. Ascham School is a prestigious private girls' school located in Edgecliff, Sydney, New South Wales. The course is designed to prepare international students for the Higher School Certificate (HSC) or equivalent, opening pathways to university and further study. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00380E), Ascham School meets Australian Government standards for international student education. This course does not combine with a dual qualification or foundation studies program.

What You'll Study

The Senior Secondary Certificate of Education curriculum in Australia, typically Years 11 and 12, provides a broad general education that prepares students for tertiary study, vocational pathways, or employment. Under the field 'General Primary and Secondary Education', students study a mix of compulsory and elective subjects, including English, mathematics, science, humanities, and languages. Graduates develop critical thinking, research, communication, and independent learning skills. While the exact syllabus is determined by the New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA), Ascham School delivers a program that meets these standards. International students benefit from small class sizes and a supportive environment. This level of study is equivalent to senior high school in many countries and is a common pathway to Australian universities.

Duration and Study Mode

The course duration is 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks as listed on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification program (not a combined or dual award). Students attend classes on campus at Ascham School in Edgecliff, Sydney. Full-time study is required to maintain student visa conditions. The school year typically runs from late January to December, with four terms and scheduled holidays. International students should plan for a full academic year commitment each year.

Fees (Indicative)

Course fees are set by Ascham School Ltd and are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register. The indicative tuition fee is A$69,000 for the total course (2 years). Non-tuition fees, including enrollment, materials, and other charges, are estimated at A$7,400, bringing the estimated total to A$76,400. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fees and a detailed fee schedule, always visit the Ascham School website at www.ascham.nsw.edu.au. Fees are subject to change and should be confirmed directly with the provider before applying. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the Australian average; indicative weekly expenses include rent (A$350–600), groceries (A$80–150), and transport (A$40–60). The Australian Government recommends budgeting at least A$21,041 per year for living costs (2026 figure).

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Ascham School sets specific entry requirements for international students. Typically, applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, with a minimum IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Prior qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 10 or its international equivalent are expected. Academic records and recommendations may also be required. For students who do not meet the English requirement, Ascham may offer pathway options such as a foundation program or English language intensive courses for overseas students (ELICOS). Always check directly with Ascham School for detailed entry criteria and any additional requirements for international students.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. Any work must not compromise course attendance or progress. For more details, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.

Delivery Locations

The course is delivered at Ascham School, located in Edgecliff, NSW, an affluent eastern suburb of Sydney. Edgecliff is approximately 4 km from the Sydney CBD, easily accessible by train and bus. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and more than 200,000 international students. The city boasts numerous CRICOS-registered providers across all study levels. Living in Sydney offers diverse cultural experiences, vibrant student life, and excellent public transport. However, the cost of living is higher than in other Australian cities. When considering senior secondary studies in Sydney, factors such as school reputation, location, and support services for international students are important.

Student Visa Information

International students enrolling in this course typically require a Student visa (Subclass 500). If the student is under 18 years of age at the time of visa application, a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) is needed for an accompanying parent or guardian. As a subclass 500 holder, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Ascham School will provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) upon acceptance, which is required for the visa application. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides general information only and does not offer immigration advice.

Is Sydney the Right City for Your Senior Secondary Studies?

Sydney offers a world-class education environment with numerous private and public schools registered on CRICOS. For senior secondary students, studying in Sydney means access to the Higher School Certificate (HSC), which is accepted by all Australian universities. The city has a large international student community, providing social and academic support. However, students and families should consider the higher cost of living, competitive school placements, and the need for appropriate accommodation (homestay, boarding, or private). Ascham School offers boarding options for girls. The school is well-connected by transport, and Edgecliff is a safe, upscale suburb. Before choosing, research multiple providers and locations across NSW, using HeadStart Academy's directory of CRICOS providers.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to apply for Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) at Ascham School Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free search to filter by course level, field, and city. Ascham School (CRICOS 00380E) is one of many options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (English test scores, academic records, application deadlines). Submit your application via Ascham's international admissions team. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Ascham will issue a CoE. Then, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements.

Ready to apply? Visit the Ascham School website to start your application and confirm current fees.

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