Secondary Years 7 - 12 (CRICOS course code 015915M) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by The Hamilton and Alexandra College over 6 years. This full-time program is designed for international students seeking a comprehensive Australian secondary education, leading to the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or equivalent. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00144F), the college offers a supportive learning environment in the regional city of Hamilton, Victoria. The course integrates general education across key learning areas, preparing students for university entry or further vocational training. With English as the language of instruction, students develop academic and language skills essential for success in Australia.
This program falls under the field of General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes (120101), part of Mixed Field Programmes. Students study a broad curriculum including English, mathematics, science, humanities, languages, and the arts. In Senior Secondary (Years 11-12), students choose electives leading to the VCE, which is recognised for university admission across Australia. The course develops critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Specific subjects are set by the college; students should contact the provider for detailed subject offerings.
The course runs for 6 years (312 weeks on the CRICOS register). It is a full-time, single qualification (no dual qualification). Instruction is in English. There is no work component. Students attend classes at the Hamilton campus. This duration allows for a complete secondary education from Year 7 to Year 12.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$199,540 for the full course, with non-tuition fees (including uniforms, excursions, and materials) estimated at A$32,558, totalling A$232,098. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. Hamilton's cost of living is lower than major cities; indicative weekly costs: rent A$150-200, groceries A$60-80, transport A$15-30. Always confirm current fees with The Hamilton and Alexandra College directly.
International students need IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Prior academic qualifications appropriate for the year level of entry are required. Students entering Year 7 typically need completion of primary schooling. For Senior Secondary, completion of Year 10 or equivalent is expected. The provider may set additional requirements. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; contact the college for preparation programs.
No work component is included in this course. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work must not interfere with study.
Hamilton College — HAMILTON, VIC 3300. Hamilton is a regional city in western Victoria, approximately 3.5 hours west of Melbourne. It has a population of about 10,000 and offers a safe, family-friendly environment. Public transport includes local buses and V/Line trains to Melbourne. The campus has modern facilities. Other providers in Hamilton include a few primary and secondary schools, but The Hamilton and Alexandra College is the main secondary option for international students.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500). For students under 18, a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) is required for an accompanying parent or guardian. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and OSHC. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion must be met. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. Always check Department of Home Affairs requirements.
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city). Step 2: Apply directly to The Hamilton and Alexandra College — submit academic transcripts, English test results, and other documents by the deadline. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). The college can assist with the application process.
Hamilton offers a quiet, community-focused lifestyle ideal for younger students. Living costs are lower than in big cities. However, fewer part-time job opportunities exist. Students should consider access to support services and proximity to Melbourne for certain activities. The college provides homestay and boarding options.
Ready to apply? Visit The Hamilton and Alexandra College website to start your application.
All Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses in Victoria →
Secondary Years 7 - 12 is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Hamilton and Alexandra College. 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.