Graduate Academic Skills (CRICOS course code 042448J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by University of Sydney over 5 weeks. This course falls under the field of Society and Culture (0915 - Language and Literature) as an ELICOS program, designed to prepare students for academic English proficiency. Offered by the Centre for English Teaching at the University of Sydney, a prestigious Group of Eight university, this course is ideal for international students seeking to enhance their academic language skills before pursuing further studies in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the Australian Government’s standards for international education. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. At the University of Sydney, you’ll benefit from world-class teaching and the vibrant city of Sydney, home to over 200,000 international students. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, and visa considerations to help you plan your study journey.
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Graduate Academic Skills focuses on developing advanced English language proficiency for academic contexts. As an ELICOS course within the Society and Culture field, it covers language skills needed for university study, including academic writing, critical reading, listening comprehension, and oral presentation. Students typically engage in intensive language training that bridges the gap between general English and the demands of tertiary education. The curriculum emphasizes discipline-specific vocabulary, research skills, and cross-cultural communication. While the exact syllabus is set by the University of Sydney, graduates of such programs often gain confidence to meet English requirements for undergraduate or postgraduate courses. This course is particularly suited for students who have achieved an IELTS score around 5.5–6.0 and need to progress to a higher level. Note that completion does not guarantee automatic entry into degree programs; students should check specific pathway options with the provider.
The course runs for 5 weeks as indicated on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is offered as a single qualification (no dual qualification). While the CRICOS entry shows 5 weeks, the actual study mode may be full-time, face-to-face on campus. The course is structured for intensive language learning, with classes typically held five days a week. Students should expect a significant time commitment. Being a non-AQF award, it does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but serves as a pathway to further studies. The University of Sydney’s Centre for English Teaching (CET) provides a supportive learning environment. It’s important to confirm study schedules directly with the provider, as timetables may vary.
The indicative tuition fee for Graduate Academic Skills is A$2,625, with non-tuition fees of A$550, totalling an estimated A$3,175. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that the following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. OSHC is a mandatory requirement for international student visa holders — at the University of Sydney, OSHC costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Sydney are estimated at A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm the latest fees with the University of Sydney before applying. For current fees, visit their official website at www.sydney.edu.au/cet.
English language entry requirements vary by provider, but for ELICOS courses like Graduate Academic Skills, a common benchmark is IELTS 5.5 overall with no band below 5.0. However, the University of Sydney may set specific requirements. Prior qualifications expected: students typically need to have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. This course is designed for students who have not yet met the English proficiency needed for their target degree program. Foundation or pathway options may be available — refer to the University of Sydney for details. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility; we recommend contacting the provider directly or consulting a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights commence once the course starts. Students should balance work and study commitments to ensure academic success.
Graduate Academic Skills is delivered at the University of Sydney (Wentworth) — Centre for English Teaching, ELICOS Operations, located in Darlington, New South Wales. Darlington is a suburb adjacent to the main Camperdown campus, close to Sydney’s city centre. Sydney is Australia’s largest city, with a vibrant student population of over 200,000 international students from 160+ countries. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and trains, and is within walking distance to the city’s cultural precincts. Living in Sydney offers a diverse, multicultural environment with numerous job opportunities. When considering this location, factor in the higher cost of living compared to other Australian cities. The University of Sydney is one of over 15 CRICOS-registered providers in the Sydney area offering ELICOS courses.
International students enrolling in a full-time CRICOS-registered course like Graduate Academic Skills may be eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study, work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term), and travel to and from Australia. Key requirements include: meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. Note that this course is short (5 weeks), so the visa duration may be limited. It’s essential to plan for further studies if you intend to stay longer. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring tuition fee protection and course quality. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only — for immigration advice, consult a registered migration agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy’s free tool to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that University of Sydney (CRICOS 01019C) is the right provider for your goals. 2) Apply directly to University of Sydney — check entry requirements, arrange an English language test (if needed), and submit your application by the deadline. Application deadlines vary, so check the provider’s website. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy does not process applications; we provide information to help you make informed decisions.
Sydney offers a dynamic study environment with world-class universities, a diverse community, and abundant job opportunities. However, it is one of the most expensive cities in Australia. Indicative weekly costs: rent A$300–A$500 for a shared apartment, groceries A$80–A$150, public transport A$30–A$50. The city has excellent public transport, including trains, buses, and ferries, connecting all suburbs to the University of Sydney. With over 200,000 international students, you'll find a supportive community. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences before choosing Sydney. HeadStart Academy helps you compare study destinations across Australia.
Explore your study options with HeadStart Academy's free CRICOS course search tool.
Graduate Academic Skills is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Sydney. 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.