English for Academic Purposes 1 (CRICOS course code 0101106) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd over 24 weeks. This ELICOS course is designed for international students who need to improve their English language skills for academic study in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03535M), Polytechnic Institute Australia offers this program across four locations: Parramatta (NSW), West Melbourne (VIC), Geelong (VIC), and Sydney (NSW). The course focuses on developing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in an academic context, preparing students for further study or professional communication. With an indicative total fee of A$7,200, it represents an accessible entry point for students seeking to meet English requirements for higher education. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this page uses official CRICOS data as at April 2026 to give you accurate information. Please note that HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees, and all listed providers are government-registered. ESOS Act protections apply to every course, ensuring your rights as an international student.
English for Academic Purposes 1 (CRICOS course code 0101106) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03535M) over 24 weeks. This course falls under the field of education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), within the broader category of Society and Culture. As an ELICOS program, it is specifically designed for international students whose first language is not English and who aim to develop academic English proficiency. The course does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but serves as a pathway to further study or employment. Polytechnic Institute Australia is a private provider offering this program in four Australian cities. The course has no work component and is taught entirely in English. All information on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring reliability. Remember that only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, and Polytechnic Institute Australia holds full registration.
In this ELICOS course, students engage with English language skills tailored for academic environments. The curriculum typically covers academic reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with an emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and formal presentation techniques. Students learn to interpret academic texts, write essays and reports, participate in seminars, and deliver oral presentations. The course also introduces Australian academic conventions and cultural expectations. Since this is a Non AQF Award, the focus is on language proficiency rather than disciplinary content. Graduates typically achieve a level of English sufficient to enter diploma or degree programs, though specific outcomes depend on the provider's assessment. The field of education (0915 - Language and Literature) ensures that the course meets national standards for ELICOS delivery. For detailed syllabus information, contact Polytechnic Institute Australia directly.
The course duration is 24 weeks (as listed on the CRICOS register). This is a full-time program, requiring approximately 20-25 hours of classroom study per week. The language of instruction is English, and the course is delivered as a single qualification with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students must maintain satisfactory attendance to comply with student visa conditions. The 24-week period allows for comprehensive language development, typically progressing through multiple proficiency levels. As a full-time ELICOS course, it meets the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Students should plan for six months of intensive study, with breaks aligned with the academic calendar. Note that the CRICOS duration is fixed, but actual study schedules may vary by provider.
The indicative fees for English for Academic Purposes 1 are as follows: tuition fee A$7,200, non-tuition fees A$0, and estimated total cost A$7,200. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$600-700 per year. Living costs vary by city: for example, in Sydney, indicative weekly rent is A$300-500, groceries A$80-150, and public transport A$30-50. In Parramatta or Geelong, costs may be lower. Always confirm current fees directly with Polytechnic Institute Australia at http://www.pia.edu.au/. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees, and all data is from the official CRICOS register.
Entry requirements for English for Academic Purposes 1 vary by provider, but typical English language proficiency levels range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level. Since this is a Non AQF Award, no prior academic qualification is necessary. However, students must demonstrate a genuine intention to study and meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa. Some providers may require a placement test to determine the appropriate starting level. For this course, applicants should contact Polytechnic Institute Australia for specific criteria. Foundation or pathway options: the provider can advise if this course leads to further study. Remember that all CRICOS-registered courses are covered by ESOS Act protections, ensuring tuition assurance and refund policies.
English for Academic Purposes 1 has no work component. This means the course does not include a mandatory internship or work placement. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and should not interfere with study commitments. The absence of a work component in this course allows students to focus entirely on language acquisition. For work rights details, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
Polytechnic Institute Australia delivers English for Academic Purposes 1 at four campuses: 107 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 (Parramatta, NSW); Level 1, 363 King Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003 (West Melbourne, VIC); Level 1, West, 237 Ryrie Street, Geelong VIC 3220 (Geelong, VIC); and Level 16, 233 Castlereagh Street, Sydney NSW 2000 (Sydney, NSW). Each location offers access to public transport, student amenities, and local services. Parramatta is a major western Sydney hub with affordable living options and a large student population. West Melbourne is close to the city centre, while Geelong provides a regional lifestyle. Sydney's Castlereagh Street campus is in the central business district. These locations give students flexibility to choose a study environment that suits their preferences. Living costs vary: Sydney is more expensive, while Geelong and Parramatta are relatively affordable. All campuses are CRICOS-registered for international student enrolment.
International students enrolled in English for Academic Purposes 1 require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study at a CRICOS-registered provider and permits work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating genuine intention to study and return home. They also need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The visa application charge is approximately A$650 (subject to change). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa applications. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring education quality and consumer rights.
Follow these three steps to apply for English for Academic Purposes 1 at Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers - Use HeadStart Academy to confirm that this course meets your goals. Check entry requirements, including English proficiency (typically IELTS 5.5-7.0) and prepare necessary documents. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution - Visit Polytechnic Institute Australia's website (http://www.pia.edu.au/) and submit an application with your academic transcripts, English test results, and passport copy. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) - Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence and financial documents. Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers can issue CoEs for international students.
When selecting a campus for English for Academic Purposes 1, consider factors like cost of living, lifestyle, and proximity to future study options. Parramatta, NSW offers a vibrant multicultural environment with lower rent than central Sydney (indicative weekly rent A$250-400). West Melbourne is close to Melbourne's CBD, with excellent public transport and cultural attractions. Geelong provides a regional experience with lower costs (rent A$200-350 per week) and a strong community feel. Sydney's Castlereagh Street campus puts you in the heart of Australia's largest city, with high living costs but unmatched opportunities. Each location has a mix of CRICOS-registered providers; for example, Parramatta has over 50 providers. Think about your long-term plans: if you aim to study at a university in Sydney, choosing a Sydney campus may be beneficial. All campuses are covered by ESOS protections, ensuring quality standards.
Ready to take the next step? Apply for English for Academic Purposes 1 at Polytechnic Institute Australia today. Visit pia.edu.au or use HeadStart Academy to explore more CRICOS-registered courses.
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English for Academic Purposes 1 is a CRICOS-registered programme at Polytechnic Institute Australia 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.