Exam Preparation (Ielts) (CRICOS course code 024350B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This ELICOS course is designed to help international students improve their English language skills and prepare for the IELTS test, a key requirement for many Australian universities and visa applications. Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01647G) is a private provider with campuses in Brisbane, Cairns, and Gold Coast, offering students flexibility in choosing their study location. With an indicative fee of A$4,440 for the full course, this program provides focused exam preparation in a supportive environment. As a HeadStart Academy user, you can trust that this course is listed on the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring it meets Australian standards for international students. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced directly from the government. This free resource carries no referral fees, so you can explore your options with confidence.
Exam Preparation (Ielts) (CRICOS course code 024350B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This course falls under the field of education '09 Society and Culture – 0915 Language and Literature – 091501 ELICOS', specifically designed for English language learners. It is ideal for international students aiming to achieve a competitive IELTS score for university entry or migration purposes. The course is offered at three Queensland locations: Brisbane, Cairns, and Gold Coast, each providing modern facilities and experienced instructors. As a CRICOS-registered course, it guarantees quality assurance under the ESOS Act, giving students legal protections while studying in Australia.
As an ELICOS course at the Non AQF Award level, the curriculum focuses on developing the four key language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with a specific emphasis on IELTS test strategies. Students practice under timed conditions, review sample questions, and receive feedback to improve their performance. While the exact syllabus is set by Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd, graduates typically gain confidence in academic English and test-taking techniques necessary for the IELTS exam. This course does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but provides a pathway to further study or skilled migration. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this one is tailored for those needing to demonstrate English proficiency.
The course runs for 12 weeks (12 weeks as per the CRICOS register). Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation components). Full-time study is expected, with classes typically held Monday to Friday. Students should plan for approximately 20 hours of classroom time per week, plus self-study. This structure allows intensive preparation within a short timeframe, suitable for students on a tight schedule before their IELTS test date.
The indicative tuition fee for Exam Preparation (Ielts) is A$4,020, with non-tuition fees of A$420, bringing the estimated total to A$4,440. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm directly with Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd through their website www.holmesinstitute.edu.au for the most current fees. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge. As a guide, OSHC costs around A$500–$700 per year, and living costs in Queensland vary: Brisbane weekly rent averages $250–$400, Gold Coast $300–$450, and Cairns $200–$350. The Department of Home Affairs requires students to demonstrate sufficient funds for these expenses.
English language requirements vary by provider and course level. For this ELICOS course, Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd typically expects a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 overall (or equivalent) to enter, as it focuses on exam preparation. However, students without formal test scores may be assessed via an internal placement test. Prior qualifications: there are no specific academic entry requirements for a Non AQF Award, but students should have completed Year 12 or equivalent to benefit from the course. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable here, but if you need additional English support, the provider can advise on bridging courses. Always check with the institution for exact requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, this course is purely academic preparation, so work is not integrated into the curriculum.
Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd delivers this course at three campuses: Brisbane Campus (BRISBANE, QLD), Cairns Campus (CAIRNS, QLD), and Gold Coast Campus (Surfers Paradise, QLD). Additionally, a fourth location at Levels 2 & 3 126 Margaret Street, Brisbane 4000 is listed as a delivery site. Brisbane, as Queensland's capital, has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student community with excellent public transport. Cairns offers a tropical setting and a smaller but growing international student population, while the Gold Coast is known for its beaches and lifestyle. Each campus provides a supportive environment for IELTS preparation.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights as mentioned above. To apply, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient funds, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The ESOS Act protects your rights as a consumer of education services. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance, but we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for individual visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Exam Preparation (Ielts) at Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Confirm that Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01647G) meets your needs.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.holmesinstitute.edu.au to check entry requirements (English test scores may be required), gather your documents (passport, academic transcripts), and submit your application before the deadline.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Holmes Colleges will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and show evidence of financial capacity.
Queensland offers a diverse range of study environments for international students. Brisbane, the state capital, is a bustling hub with over 200,000 international students, affordable living costs, and excellent public transport. The Gold Coast is famous for its beaches and lifestyle, attracting many students to its relaxed atmosphere. Cairns, near the Great Barrier Reef, is ideal for those who prefer a smaller city with a tropical climate. Each city has multiple CRICOS-registered providers, so you can compare courses. For an IELTS preparation course, consider your preferred pace of life and budget. Weekly living costs (excluding tuition) range from A$350–$600 depending on the city. All locations offer access to libraries, study spaces, and community groups to support your language learning journey.
Ready to start your IELTS preparation? Explore this course on HeadStart Academy or visit the Holmes Colleges website to apply today.
Exam Preparation (Ielts) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmes Colleges Queensland 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.