High School Preparation (Elementary to Intermediate) (1 to 40 weeks) (CRICOS course code 009528F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd over 40 weeks (~9 months). This ELICOS course is designed for international students who need to improve their English language skills before entering mainstream high school in Australia. It focuses on developing reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities from elementary to intermediate level. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student programs. Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00040C) is a private provider with a dedicated campus for ELICOS operations in Sydney. This page provides detailed information about the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and how to apply through HeadStart Academy — your free guide to studying in Australia.
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High School Preparation (Elementary to Intermediate) (1 to 40 weeks) (CRICOS 009528F) is a Non AQF Award under the field of Education 091501 - ELICOS. It is offered by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00040C). The course is delivered over 40 weeks (approximately 9 months) and is taught entirely in English. It does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but prepares students for further study at the high school level. This course is ideal for students aged typically 12–18 who have not yet reached the English proficiency required for mainstream secondary education. The curriculum is designed to build foundational language skills through structured lessons, practice activities, and cultural immersion. Graduates of this course are expected to progress to high school programs or other ELICOS levels. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy for prospective international students.
The High School Preparation program falls under the field of Language and Literature (0915), specifically ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). Students develop core English language competencies necessary for academic success in an Australian high school. The course typically covers: reading comprehension of various texts, writing essays and reports, listening to lectures and conversations, and speaking with clarity and confidence. Vocabulary building, grammar, and pronunciation are also emphasized. While there is no prescribed national syllabus for Non AQF ELICOS courses, providers structure their lessons to align with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) or similar benchmarks. By the end of the course, students should be able to communicate effectively in everyday and academic contexts. The course does not include subjects like mathematics or science, but focuses solely on English language proficiency. For specific curriculum details, please refer to Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd directly.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 40 weeks (approximately 9 months). It is offered as a full-time on-campus program. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or combined awards). Classes are typically held at the Holmes Secondary College (ELICOS Operations) campus in Sydney. The study mode is face-to-face, which allows for interactive learning and direct support from teachers. There is no online or distance learning option for this course. Students are expected to attend classes for a minimum of 20 hours per week, as is standard for ELICOS programs. The 40-week duration provides a structured pathway for students to progress from elementary to intermediate English proficiency. It is important to note that the duration may be flexible depending on the student's initial level, but the registered duration is 40 weeks.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$14,200. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$500, bringing the total indicative cost to A$14,700. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd sets the fees, and they may vary without notice. The non-tuition fees typically cover application processing, materials, and student services. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge. As a guide, living costs in Sydney are approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, food, and transport. For the most current fees, always refer to the provider's website: www.holmes.edu.au. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge any referral fees.
Entry requirements for High School Preparation (Elementary to Intermediate) vary by provider. Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd will typically require: age proof (students are usually 12–18 years old), a completed application form, and evidence of previous education. English language requirements: while this is a preparation course, providers may set a minimum entry level because it starts at elementary. For ELICOS programs, the required IELTS score can range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level, but for elementary level, a lower score or no formal test may be accepted. Some providers use their own placement tests. There are no specific academic prerequisites for this Non AQF Award, but students must demonstrate the ability to benefit from the program. If you do not meet the English requirements, some providers offer foundation or pathway options — contact Holmes Colleges for details. Always check with the provider directly for the most accurate requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake work placements, internships, or work experience as part of the program. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights commence after the course starts. It is important to note that work should not interfere with study commitments.
This course is delivered at Holmes Secondary College (ELICOS Operations) in Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and a major hub for international students. There are more than 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, with a high concentration in Sydney. The campus is located in the Sydney metropolitan area with access to public transport. Living costs in Sydney are higher than other Australian cities, with average weekly rent for a room around A$350–500, groceries A$100–150, and transport A$40–50. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and a diverse community. Studying in Sydney allows students to practice English in a multicultural environment. For location-specific advice, visit our 'Study in Sydney' page.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), English proficiency (if required), and health insurance via Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. As a Student visa holder, you can work 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After completing this ELICOS course, you may need to apply for a new visa or student visa extension to continue high school studies. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent.
Applying for High School Preparation (Elementary to Intermediate) at Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. Confirm that the course and provider are CRICOS-registered. Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd is registered with CRICOS 00040C.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, arrange your English language test if needed, and submit your application to Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd before the deadline. You can apply online via their website: www.holmes.edu.au.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the provider 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.
Ready to start your high school preparation journey? Research more CRICOS-registered ELICOS courses on HeadStart Academy and take the first step toward studying in Australia.
High School Preparation (Elementary to Intermediate) (1 to 40 weeks) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty 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.