IELTS Preparation (CRICOS course code 0101408) is a Non AQF Award delivered by TAFE Queensland over 50 weeks (~12 months). Designed for international students aiming to meet English language requirements for further study, migration, or employment, this course falls under the field of 091501 - ELICOS. TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) is a government-owned provider with a strong reputation for quality education. With an indicative tuition fee of A$18,000 and non-tuition fees of A$750, the estimated total is A$18,750. The course is delivered at the South Bank campus in South Brisbane and the Southport campus on the Gold Coast. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource — all data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, and TAFE Queensland is fully registered and government-owned.
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IELTS Preparation (CRICOS 0101408) is a Non AQF Award offered by TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E). This course is specifically designed to help students develop the skills needed to achieve their target IELTS score. It sits within the field of Society and Culture (09), specialising in Language and Literature (0915) under ELICOS (091501). As an ELICOS course, it focuses on English language proficiency, covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Graduates will be better prepared for academic or professional environments where English is the primary language. TAFE Queensland is a government-owned institution, ensuring high standards of education and support services for international students. All courses listed in the CRICOS register are protected under the ESOS Act, guaranteeing quality assurance and student rights.
The IELTS Preparation course at TAFE Queensland is designed to build students' English language skills to the level required for the IELTS examination. The curriculum typically covers test-taking strategies, time management, and intensive practice in all four IELTS modules: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Students will engage in tasks that simulate real test conditions, receive feedback, and work on areas of weakness. The course is classified under ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), which is a specialised area focused on English proficiency. While the exact syllabus is set by TAFE Queensland, the general aim is to develop communicative competence and test readiness. This course is ideal for students who need a high IELTS score for university entry or migration purposes.
The IELTS Preparation course has a duration of 50 weeks (~12 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no foundation studies component; it is a standalone English language course. Students should expect a full-time study load, typically requiring 20-25 hours of class per week. The course is delivered face-to-face at the South Bank and Southport campuses. This duration allows students ample time to improve their English and familiarise themselves with the IELTS format. Studying at TAFE Queensland also provides access to modern facilities and experienced instructors.
Indicative fees for IELTS Preparation at TAFE Queensland are as follows: tuition A$18,000, non-tuition fees A$750 (including materials, admin, etc.), and estimated total A$18,750. Please note that these are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional compulsory costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (estimated at around A$21,041 per year for a single student according to Department of Home Affairs), and the visa application charge. Always confirm current fees directly with TAFE Queensland via their website www.tafeqld.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy is not responsible for fee changes. Many students also budget for study supplies, transport, and personal expenses.
English language requirements vary by provider and course level. For IELTS Preparation at TAFE Queensland, students typically need an IELTS score between 5.5 and 7.0 overall, depending on the target level of the course. However, the exact requirement is determined by the provider. Prior academic qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 or equivalent are generally expected for non-AQF award courses. Foundation or pathway options are available at TAFE Queensland — contact the provider for specific details. All international students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion as part of their visa application. HeadStart Academy recommends checking entry requirements on the TAFE Queensland website or contacting their international admissions office.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. 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. Work rights start once the course commences. Students should ensure they maintain their study schedule as the primary purpose of their visa.
The course is delivered at two locations: South Bank in South Brisbane, QLD, and Southport in Southport, QLD. South Bank is in Brisbane's cultural precinct, close to public transport and student accommodation. Brisbane has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student community. Southport is on the Gold Coast, known for its beaches and lifestyle; the Gold Coast has more than 15 registered providers. Both campuses are accessible by bus and light rail. Living costs vary: Brisbane average weekly rent A$250-A$400, Gold Coast A$300-A$450. Both cities offer part-time work opportunities and a high quality of life. TAFE Queensland's campuses are well-equipped with libraries, computer labs, and student lounges.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from TAFE Queensland, evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, travel), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during the term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions vary — always check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. The ESOS Act provides protection for international students, including refund policies and complaints processes.
Follow these three steps to apply for IELTS Preparation at TAFE Queensland:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses like this one. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered (TAFE Queensland CRICOS 03020E, course 0101408).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit TAFE Queensland's international admissions page, submit your application with required documents (academic transcripts, English test scores, passport copy). Check entry requirements and deadlines.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, TAFE Queensland will issue a CoE. Then apply for your visa online via ImmiAccount, pay the visa application charge, and arrange OSHC. Prepare for a possible interview and provide GTE evidence.
South East Queensland, encompassing Brisbane and the Gold Coast, offers a warm climate, diverse culture, and strong job market. Brisbane is Australia's third-largest city with a growing student population from over 150 countries. The Gold Coast is famous for its beaches and tourist economy, providing many casual work opportunities. Both cities have excellent public transport, including trains, buses, and light rail. Living costs are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne. With over 35 CRICOS-registered providers in the region, students have plenty of choices. Consider your preference for city versus coastal lifestyle, and factor in commute times to your chosen campus. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare locations and providers.
When selecting an ELICOS course like IELTS Preparation, consider the following: your current English proficiency vs. the course entry requirement; the course duration and whether it fits your visa timeline; the provider's reputation and support services; the cost and location. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so compare options carefully. Check if the course leads to a recognised outcome (e.g., IELTS score) and note that non-AQF awards may not lead to formal qualifications. Also, verify that the provider is compliant with the ESOS Act for student protection. HeadStart Academy's course pages provide transparent data from the CRICOS register without referral fees or commissions.
Explore more courses and providers on HeadStart Academy – your free guide to studying in Australia.
IELTS Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE Queensland. 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.