IELTS Preparation Program (Levels 1-2) (CRICOS course code 050108G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Union Institute of Language - Springfield Campus Pty Ltd over 20 weeks. This ELICOS course (Field of Education 091501) is designed for international students aiming to improve their English proficiency for academic, professional, or migration purposes. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian Government standards and qualifies international students for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Union Institute of Language operates three campuses in Queensland – Springfield, Sunshine Coast (Sippy Downs), and Toowoomba – offering flexibility in study location. With Australia hosting over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses, this IELTS preparation pathway is a trusted choice for students targeting benchmark scores. The indicative total cost is A$10,300, but always confirm current fees directly with the provider. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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This IELTS Preparation Program falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (09) and specifically Language and Literature (0915), classified as ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). Students develop skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking at levels 1-2, building foundational English competence. The curriculum typically covers exam strategies, grammar, vocabulary, and academic communication tailored to the IELTS test format. Graduates at this level can progress to higher ELICOS levels or apply for further studies in vocational or higher education programs. While HeadStart Academy cannot provide a detailed syllabus, the course structure aligns with the Australian ELICOS standards set by NEAS (National ELICOS Accreditation Scheme). Union Institute of Language designs its program to help students achieve overall IELTS band scores of 5.5-7.0, depending on entry level and progression.
The course runs for 20 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual awards). Full-time study is expected for student visa holders. The duration is fixed, but individual progress may vary. Students attend classes on campus at one of three Queensland locations. As this is a Non AQF Award, it does not fall under the Australian Qualifications Framework but is specifically designed for IELTS preparation. The course is not a foundation program nor a VET course (N/A VET code).
The indicative tuition fee for IELTS Preparation Program (Levels 1-2) is A$10,000, with non-tuition fees of A$300, giving an estimated total of A$10,300. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm directly with Union Institute of Language for the most current fees. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). For reference, OSHC costs around A$600-A$1,000 per year depending on provider and cover level. Living costs in Queensland vary: Toowoomba is more affordable (weekly rent ~A$200-A$300), while Sunshine Coast and Brisbane-area suburbs are higher (~A$300-A$500). Students should budget at least A$21,041 per year for living costs as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines.
Entry requirements are set by Union Institute of Language. Typically, international students for ELICOS courses need to demonstrate English proficiency, often equivalent to IELTS 5.5-7.0 overall depending on the course level. Prior academic qualifications: students usually need to have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. There is no foundation or pathway component for this Non AQF Award, but students who complete this course may enter other programs. For specific entry criteria, contact the provider directly. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality and consumer rights.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. Student visa holders studying ELICOS may still work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, the course itself does not integrate work experience.
Union Institute of Language offers this program at three Queensland campuses: UIL Springfield Campus (Springfield, QLD), UIL Sunshine Coast Campus (Sippy Downs, QLD), and UIL Toowoomba Campus (Toowoomba, QLD). Springfield is a suburb of Ipswich, about 30 km from Brisbane's CBD, with good public transport via train and bus. Sippy Downs is near the University of the Sunshine Coast, approximately 100 km north of Brisbane, accessible by bus. Toowoomba is a regional city west of Brisbane, known for its cost-effective living and a growing student population. Each campus provides a supportive environment for international students. Check the provider's website for full address and campus facilities.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and English proficiency evidence. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight when courses are in session and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. After completing the course, students may explore post-study pathways (e.g., Temporary Graduate visa) if eligible. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Queensland is a popular study destination for international students, with over 50,000 international enrolments across the state. It offers a warm climate, diverse landscapes from beaches to outback, and a mix of major cities and regional towns. Living costs are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. Toowoomba, with a population of around 170,000, is particularly affordable and has a close-knit community. Sunshine Coast is known for its lifestyle and proximity to nature, while Springfield is part of the growing Greater Brisbane area. Public transport networks connect campuses to city centers. When choosing a location, consider your preferences for climate, cost, and lifestyle. Union Institute of Language provides the same course across three sites, so you can select the campus that best suits your needs.
Follow these three steps to enrol in IELTS Preparation Program (Levels 1-2) at Union Institute of Language - Springfield Campus Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free search tool to find courses like this one. Filter by field (Society and Culture), level (Non AQF Award), and location (Queensland). Always verify CRICOS registration on cricos.teqsa.gov.au. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your documents (passport, academic transcripts, English test results if required, and proof of financial capacity). Submit your application via Union Institute of Language's website or direct admissions. Check entry requirements and application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via ImmiAccount. Include OSHC, evidence of funds, and GTE statement. Seek professional advice if needed.
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IELTS Preparation Program (Levels 1-2) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Union Institute of Language - Springfield Campus 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.