Are you preparing for the Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) exam? This internationally recognised qualification validates high-level English proficiency. Offered by Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01647G), the Exam Preparation-Cambridge English: Advanced Certificate (CAE) (CRICOS 045434B) is a Non AQF Award delivered over 12 weeks across campuses in Brisbane, Cairns, and Gold Coast. As part of Australia's official CRICOS register, this course is designed for international students seeking to enhance their English for academic or professional purposes. HeadStart Academy provides this comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision – all trusted data sourced directly from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available, this specific program is one of many pathways to success in Australia.
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Exam Preparation-Cambridge English: Advanced Certificate (CAE) (CRICOS course code 045434B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This course falls under Field of Education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), which is part of the broader Society and Culture field (09). As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification but provides intensive preparation for the Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) exam. The course is ideal for students aiming to achieve a high-level English certificate for university admission, employment, or migration purposes. Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd is a private provider registered with CRICOS since 2003, offering quality English language programs. All international students enrolled in this course are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and consumer rights.
While the exact syllabus is determined by Holmes Colleges, the course focuses on developing advanced reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills required for the Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) exam. Typical topics include academic vocabulary, complex grammar structures, essay writing, and oral presentation. Students practice exam techniques, time management, and strategies for all four exam papers. The course is immersive, with English as the sole language of instruction, and includes mock tests and feedback sessions. Graduates typically achieve a C1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), demonstrating effective operational proficiency in English. This qualification is widely accepted by universities and employers globally.
The course duration is 12 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study is full-time, face-to-face, with all instruction in English. This is a single qualification – no dual or packaged awards. Attendance is mandatory for international student visa compliance. Holmes Colleges offers multiple intakes throughout the year. Students must maintain satisfactory course progress to meet visa conditions. The intensive nature of the program requires a commitment of approximately 20-25 hours per week in class, plus additional self-study.
According to the CRICOS register, the indicative fees for this course are: Tuition: A$4,020; Non-tuition: A$420; Estimated total: A$4,440. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are NOT included. Living costs in Queensland vary: Brisbane average rent A$250–A$400/week, food A$80–A$150/week, transport A$30–A$50/week. Cairns is slightly cheaper, Gold Coast similar to Brisbane. These figures are indicative only and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Holmes Colleges at www.holmesinstitute.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not set fees and cannot guarantee amounts – data sourced from CRICOS (April 2026).
Entry requirements for the Cambridge English Advanced preparation course vary by provider. Typically, Holmes Colleges expects students to have an intermediate to upper-intermediate English level – for example, IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 or equivalent. Some providers may require a placement test. Prior qualifications: generally, completion of secondary school or equivalent is expected. Foundation/pathway options: If you do not meet the English requirement, Holmes Colleges may offer a pathway course or suggest a General English program first. Contact the provider for specific prerequisites. Remember, all entry requirements are set by the institution; HeadStart Academy does not assess applications.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as a student on a Subclass 500 visa, you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are not guaranteed – check with the Department of Home Affairs. The course includes only supervised study; any work is optional and must not interfere with academic progress.
Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd delivers this course at three campuses: Brisbane Campus (Levels 2 & 3, 126 Margaret Street, Brisbane QLD 4000), Cairns Campus (address not specified but located in CAIRNS, QLD), and Gold Coast Campus (Surfers Paradise, QLD). Brisbane is the state capital with over 50,000 international students and excellent public transport. Cairns offers a tropical lifestyle and smaller student community. Surfers Paradise is a vibrant beachside hub. Each campus provides modern facilities and student support. When choosing a location, consider living costs, climate, and proximity to amenities. Brisbane has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers; Cairns and Gold Coast have fewer but still diverse options.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Holmes Colleges, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year for single student), and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the visa duration. OSHC costs approximately A$500–$700/year for a single person. Work rights: 48 hours/fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees through the Tuition Protection Service. Visas are subject to strict conditions – always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy provides guidance only, not immigration advice.
Queensland is a popular study destination with warm climate, diverse landscapes, and strong student communities. Brisbane has a large international student population, modern amenities, and easy access to Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Cairns is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef but has a smaller job market. Gold Coast is known for its beaches and tourism industry. Living costs are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne. For language courses like this, smaller cities can offer more immersive English practice. Consider your personal preferences and career goals before choosing a campus.
Ready to enrol? Follow these three steps to study Exam Preparation-Cambridge English: Advanced Certificate (CAE) at Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare Holmes Colleges with other ELICOS providers in Queensland. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.holmesinstitute.edu.au to check entry requirements, submit your application with English test scores (if required), and meet application deadlines. 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 lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to include OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Ready to enrol? Explore this course and thousands more on HeadStart Academy – your trusted CRICOS resource.
Exam Preparation-Cambridge English: Advanced Certificate (CAE) 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.