Exam Preparation (FCE) (Upper Intermediate) (CRICOS course code 026587J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This ELICOS course, classified under field of education 091501 - Language and Literature, is designed for upper-intermediate English learners aiming to prepare for the Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE) exam. Delivered at Holmes Secondary College (ELICOS Operations) in Sydney, NSW, the course provides targeted exam practice and language development. With an indicative tuition fee of A$4,200 and non-tuition fees of A$420, the estimated total cost is A$4,620. International students must meet English language requirements, typically IELTS 5.5–7.0. This page provides comprehensive details including duration, entry requirements, visa information, and application steps—all sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource connecting you with CRICOS-registered providers across Australia. Remember, only CRICOS-registered institutions can enrol international students, and all listed providers comply with the ESOS Act for student protections.
Exam Preparation (FCE) (Upper Intermediate) (CRICOS course code 026587J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This course falls under the field of Education: 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0915 - Language and Literature, and 091501 - ELICOS. It is designed for students at an upper-intermediate level who wish to sit the Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE) exam. The course focuses on developing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, as well as exam strategies. Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00040C) is a private provider based in Sydney, NSW. The course is delivered at Holmes Secondary College (ELICOS Operations). As with all CRICOS-registered courses, this program meets Australian Government standards for international student education. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses (as at April 2026), and this is one of many ELICOS options for students seeking to improve their English proficiency for academic or professional purposes.
The course focuses on upper-intermediate English language skills needed for the Cambridge FCE exam. Students typically cover grammar, vocabulary, and communication strategies in real-world contexts. The program emphasises reading comprehension, writing essays and reports, listening to lectures and conversations, and speaking fluently in discussions. Additionally, exam techniques such as time management, question analysis, and practice tests are integrated. While the exact syllabus is set by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd, graduates can expect to achieve a B2 level on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), enabling them to use English independently in study, work, and social settings. This Non AQF Award does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification but provides a recognised preparation for the FCE exam. Students interested in further studies may progress to other courses at the same provider or elsewhere, subject to meeting entry requirements.
The course duration is 12 weeks (12 weeks on the CRICOS register). Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not dual). No foundation studies component is included. The course is delivered full-time, typically requiring 20 hours per week of class time. As an ELICOS course, it may be offered in multiple intakes throughout the year. Students should check with Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd for specific start dates. The study mode is face-to-face at the Holmes Secondary College (ELICOS Operations) in Sydney. This structure allows international students to immerse themselves in an English-speaking environment while preparing for the FCE exam. The 12-week duration is sufficient for upper-intermediate learners to build confidence and skills before sitting the exam.
Indicative fees for Exam Preparation (FCE) (Upper Intermediate) as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026): - Tuition fee: A$4,200 - Non-tuition fee: A$420 - Estimated total cost: A$4,620 Please note: These fees are indicative and set by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd. They are subject to change without notice. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs not included are: - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover - Living expenses: indicative weekly costs in Sydney are rent A$600–$800, groceries A$80–$150, transport A$40–$60 - Visa application charge: currently A$710 (subject to change) HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting for at least A$29,710 per year for living costs (as per Department of Home Affairs estimate). For the most up-to-date fee information, visit the provider's website at www.holmes.edu.au.
Entry requirements for Exam Preparation (FCE) (Upper Intermediate) vary by provider. Typically, international students need to demonstrate English proficiency at an upper-intermediate level, equivalent to IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the course level. Some providers may accept alternative tests like TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English. Prior academic qualifications: as this is a Non AQF Award, there are no specific academic prerequisites beyond completing secondary education or equivalent. Some providers may require students to be at least 18 years old. Foundation or pathway options: if you do not meet the English requirement, Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd may offer general English or other pathway programs. Check directly with the provider for specific entry criteria. All applicants must comply with Australian student visa requirements, including genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria and sufficient financial capacity.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. These work rights are subject to visa conditions and must not interfere with course attendance. For more details on work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The course is delivered at: - Holmes Secondary College (ELICOS Operations) — SYDNEY, NSW Sydney is Australia's largest city and a major study destination with hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is located in the heart of Sydney, close to public transport, shops, and cultural attractions. Students can enjoy a vibrant multicultural environment with excellent study and lifestyle opportunities. Sydney's cost of living is higher than other Australian cities, with weekly rent averaging A$600–$800 for shared accommodation and transport costs around A$40–$60 per week. The city offers diverse dining, entertainment, and outdoor activities. For students interested in Society and Culture courses, Sydney has a strong concentration of providers offering related fields.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion: you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study. - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): mandatory health insurance for the duration of your stay. - Financial capacity: show sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. - English proficiency: meet the provider's English requirement (typically IELTS 5.5–7.0). - Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): issued by the provider after acceptance. Visa conditions typically allow work of 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during holidays. For detailed guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Sydney offers world-class education, a diverse community, and a high standard of living. With over 400 CRICOS-registered providers (approx.), it's an excellent choice for students pursuing Society and Culture fields. However, living costs are among the highest in Australia. Consider your budget: weekly rent for a room in shared housing is typically $600–$800, groceries $80–$150, and transport $40–$60. Public transport includes trains, buses, and ferries. Sydney also has a large international student population, providing networking opportunities and support services. If you prefer a more affordable city, consider regional areas. Ultimately, your choice should align with your academic goals, financial situation, and lifestyle preferences.
Follow these three steps to apply for Exam Preparation (FCE) (Upper Intermediate) at Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to find approved courses. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Sydney). Check that the provider (Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd, CRICOS 00040C) meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application through the provider's website (www.holmes.edu.au). Ensure you meet entry requirements (English proficiency, etc.). Provide all required documents: academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy, and any other requested information. Note application deadlines and pay any application fees. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Consult a registered migration agent if needed.
Ready to prepare for your FCE exam in Sydney? Explore this course on the provider's website or use HeadStart Academy to compare other ELICOS options. Remember to check CRICOS registration and consult a migration agent for visa advice.
Exam Preparation (FCE) (Upper Intermediate) 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.