Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) (CRICOS course code 041285J) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by The Council of Abbotsleigh over 2 years. This course is designed for international students seeking to complete their secondary education in Australia at a prestigious independent school in Wahroonga, New South Wales. The Council of Abbotsleigh (CRICOS 02270F) is a private, CRICOS-registered provider that has been educating students since 1885, offering a supportive environment for academic and personal growth. As part of Australia's education system, this Senior Secondary program prepares students for university entry or further study, with a curriculum that develops critical thinking, subject knowledge, and English proficiency. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource to help you understand the course structure, fees, and student visa requirements. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. Note that this course does not include a work component, and the estimated total cost is A$73,500, not including OSHC, living expenses, or visa fees. For current fee details, always confirm with the provider.
Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) (CRICOS course code 041285J) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by The Council of Abbotsleigh over 2 years. This program is part of the Mixed Field Programmes category (Field of Education 120101 - General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes), providing a broad academic foundation for students aged approximately 16 to 18. The course is conducted entirely in English and leads to the award of the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, which is recognized for entry into Australian universities and many international institutions. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. The Council of Abbotsleigh is a well-established private school in Sydney's North Shore, offering modern facilities and a comprehensive co-curricular program. International students benefit from dedicated support services, including academic guidance and English language assistance.
The Senior Secondary curriculum at The Council of Abbotsleigh covers a range of subjects designed to develop students' knowledge, skills, and critical thinking. The general education program includes compulsory areas such as English, mathematics, science, and humanities, with elective options that allow students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. Students typically study a combination of subjects that prepare them for higher education, including the Higher School Certificate (HSC) curriculum in New South Wales. Learning outcomes include advanced literacy and numeracy, research skills, communication abilities, and problem-solving. While specific subject offerings are set by the school, the broad field of General Primary and Secondary Education ensures a balanced education. For detailed subject lists and timetables, prospective students should consult The Council of Abbotsleigh directly.
This course has a CRICOS duration of 2 years (104 weeks). It is delivered on a full-time, face-to-face basis at the Abbotsleigh campus in Wahroonga, NSW. The language of instruction is English, and the program is a single qualification (no dual awards or foundation studies). Students attend classes during standard school terms, with breaks aligning with the New South Wales school calendar. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as part of their Student visa conditions. The school provides a structured learning environment with access to library, science labs, and sports facilities.
Tuition fees are set by the provider; please see The Council of Abbotsleigh's website for the most current information. Non-tuition fees (e.g., enrollment, materials, excursions) are also set by the provider. The estimated total cost for the full 2-year program is A$73,500, as recorded on the CRICOS register. This amount is indicative only and subject to change. It does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Students should budget for additional costs such as accommodation, transport, and personal expenses. In Sydney's North Shore, weekly rent for a room is approximately A$250–A$400, and groceries around A$80–A$150. We recommend confirming all fees directly with The Council of Abbotsleigh before applying.
The English proficiency requirement for this course is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall or equivalent. Applicants typically need to have completed Year 10 or equivalent in their home country. The Council of Abbotsleigh may assess prior academic records and conduct interviews or placement tests. Students under 18 may require a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) if accompanied by a parent or guardian. While this course does not include foundation studies, the school may offer pathways for students who need additional English or academic preparation. Always check the provider's specific entry requirements as they may be subject to change.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
This course is delivered at: Abbotsleigh School — WAHROONGA, NSW. Wahroonga is a suburb on Sydney's Upper North Shore, approximately 20 km from the CBD. The area is well-served by public transport, including train and bus services to the city. Wahroonga offers a quiet residential environment with access to parks, shops, and cultural venues. Sydney's North Shore has a high concentration of excellent schools, with several other CRICOS-registered providers in the region. Living costs in this area are above the Australian average, but students benefit from a safe and prestigious community.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires applicants to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Students under 18 must have adequate welfare arrangements; a parent or guardian may apply for a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Financial capacity requirements apply; consult the Department of Home Affairs for current thresholds. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund protections.
Follow these three steps to apply for Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) at The Council of Abbotsleigh:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level and location. Confirm that The Council of Abbotsleigh (CRICOS 02270F) meets your needs. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the provider's website (www.abbotsleigh.nsw.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts and any required documents. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, The Council of Abbotsleigh will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements.
Wahroonga offers a leafy, family-oriented environment with excellent schools, parks, and a strong sense of community. It is well-connected to Sydney's city center via the North Shore railway line and major roads. The suburb has a relatively high cost of living, but students can find shared accommodation or homestays. With several CRICOS-registered providers in the area, including The Council of Abbotsleigh, students have access to quality education. Consider your study preferences: do you prefer a small, supportive school environment with a focus on academic excellence? Wahroonga may be ideal. For those seeking a bustling city experience, Sydney CBD is about 35 minutes away by train.
Ready to begin your Senior Secondary journey in Australia? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy and contact The Council of Abbotsleigh for application details.
All Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses in New South Wales →
Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Council of Abbotsleigh. 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.