Junior Secondary (Years 7 to 10) (CRICOS course code 041383G) is a Junior Secondary Studies delivered by The McDonald College Limited over 4 years. This course is designed for international students aged 12 to 16 who wish to complete their lower secondary education in Australia. The McDonald College, located in North Strathfield, Sydney, is a private institution registered with CRICOS (provider code 02293K). As a CRICOS-registered provider, it meets Australian Government standards for international student education and is protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. Students will study a broad curriculum covering core subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities, as well as elective courses in arts, technology, and physical education. The school is well-known for its performing arts programs. This page provides comprehensive information about course fees, duration, entry requirements, and how to apply for a student visa.
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Junior Secondary (Years 7 to 10) (CRICOS course code 041383G) is a full-time program offered by The McDonald College Limited. It spans four years of study, leading to a Junior Secondary qualification. The course is classified under General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes (field of education 120101). This level prepares students for senior secondary studies and builds foundational academic and personal skills. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, adhere to Australian quality standards and provide legal protections under the ESOS Act.
The curriculum for Junior Secondary (Years 7 to 10) follows the Australian Curriculum, focusing on core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities and Social Sciences. Students also explore electives in performing arts, visual arts, languages, and technology. The McDonald College integrates its specialist performing arts program, offering classes in dance, music, and drama. Graduates develop critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills essential for further education. This field of education (General Primary and Secondary Education) ensures a broad and balanced learning experience.
The course is scheduled over 4 years, equivalent to 208 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification course with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend full-time on campus at The McDonald College.
Tuition fees for Junior Secondary (Years 7 to 10) are A$202,216. Non-tuition fees, including materials and technology levies, are estimated at A$17,560, bringing the total indicative cost to A$219,776. These fees are set by The McDonald College Limited and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees, visit the provider's website at www.mcdonald.nsw.edu.au.
| Fee Component | Amount (A$) | |---------------|------------| | Tuition | 202,216 | | Non-tuition | 17,560 | | **Total** | **219,776**|
International students must meet the following entry requirements for Junior Secondary (Years 7 to 10): - English proficiency: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE Academic). - Prior qualifications: Completion of primary education (or equivalent) and satisfactory academic records. - Age: Typically 12–16 years at the start of the course. - Additional requirements: The provider may conduct an interview or request a portfolio for performing arts programs. - Foundation/pathway options: Contact The McDonald College directly for information on available bridging programs.
No work component – this course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may work part-time (see Student Visa section).
This course is delivered at The McDonald College (SCHOOL Operations), located in North Strathfield, NSW. North Strathfield is a suburb of Sydney, approximately 15 km west of the city centre. Sydney offers excellent public transport, including trains and buses, connecting the campus to major hubs. The city is home to over 500 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Indicative living costs in Sydney range from A$400 to A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport.
International students enrolling in Junior Secondary (Years 7 to 10) require a Student visa (Subclass 500). For students under 18, a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) is available for an accompanying parent or guardian. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holiday periods, subject to visa conditions. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au).
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered.
**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** – The McDonald College Limited. Review entry requirements, prepare English test scores (IELTS 5.0–5.5 or equivalent), and meet application deadlines. Submit your application along with academic transcripts and other required documents.
**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, the institution issues a CoE. Lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, paying the visa application charge and attaching OSHC evidence. After approval, you can arrange travel and accommodation.
Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and a vibrant international student population. With hundreds of registered providers offering thousands of courses, students have diverse options. The cost of living is higher than in regional areas, but the city offers world-class amenities, beaches, and cultural attractions. Public transport is reliable, and many schools provide homestay or boarding options. Consider your budget, preferred lifestyle, and proximity to family when choosing a location. HeadStart Academy covers all states and territories to help you compare.
All CRICOS-registered courses, including Junior Secondary (Years 7 to 10) at The McDonald College Limited, are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. This ensures you receive the course you paid for, access to tuition fee protection, and a complaints process. Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offer over 26,000 courses, all subject to these standards.
Ready to begin your Junior Secondary journey? Explore more courses at headstartacademy.com.au.
Junior Secondary (Years 7 to 10) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The McDonald College Limited. 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.