English as a Second Language (ESL) (Years 7 - 10) (CRICOS course code 052152J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Department of Education over 1 year. This course is designed for international students aged 12–16 who wish to improve their English language proficiency for secondary school study in Western Australia. Offered at six high schools across the Perth metropolitan area, the program provides a pathway into mainstream academic courses. The indicative total fee is A$20,286, with no additional non-tuition costs. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 01723A), it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you compare courses and providers—use this page to explore everything you need to know about studying ESL in Australia.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
English as a Second Language (ESL) (Years 7 - 10) (CRICOS 052152J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by the Department of Education (CRICOS 01723A), a government provider in Western Australia. This course falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (12) → General Education Programmes (1201) → Literacy and Numeracy Programmes (120103). It is designed for international students who need to develop English language skills before entering mainstream secondary school classes. The program runs for 1 year (52 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. There is no dual qualification or work component. As a CRICOS-registered course, it guarantees quality assurance and access to student protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy and trust.
The English as a Second Language (ESL) (Years 7 - 10) course focuses on building foundational literacy and numeracy skills through English. Students typically develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities for everyday communication and academic contexts. Grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation are core components, along with comprehension and critical thinking exercises. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, graduates of this level generally gain the confidence to transition into mainstream high school programs. The course aligns with the Australian Curriculum for ESL learners, emphasizing practical language use. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to a formal qualification but prepares students for further study. For detailed curriculum information, contact the Department of Education directly.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual awards). As an ESL program, there is no work component embedded in the course. Students are expected to attend classes full-time at one of the six participating high schools. While the course is not available online, it offers an immersive environment for language acquisition. This structure allows international students to focus entirely on improving their English before progressing to their chosen academic pathway. Always verify current delivery modes with the provider, as schedules may vary.
The indicative tuition fee for English as a Second Language (ESL) (Years 7 - 10) at Department of Education is A$20,286 per year. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$20,286. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. Living costs in Western Australia vary, with typical weekly expenses of A$300–A$500 for accommodation, food, and transport. For current fees and additional costs, always visit the provider's website at www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change—use this as a guide only. HeadStart Academy provides indicative data from the CRICOS register but recommends confirming all costs before applying.
English language requirements for this course vary by provider—typically, an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 7.0 is expected, depending on the course level. For English as a Second Language (ESL) (Years 7 - 10), prior academic qualifications and age requirements apply. International students are generally expected to have completed equivalent schooling for their age group (Years 7–10). The Department of Education may also require a minimum English proficiency test score or offer internal placement testing. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements—contact the provider for details. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider makes the final decision. For visa purposes, you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient funds.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are enrolled in a full-time academic program without required practical placement or internships. However, as a Student visa holder (Subclass 500), you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights commence after your course starts. Always check your visa conditions, as working more than permitted can affect your visa status. For more details, refer to the Department of Home Affairs guidelines.
This course is delivered at six high schools across Western Australia, primarily in the Perth metropolitan area. The locations are: Balga Senior High School (Balga), Como Secondary College (Como), Department of Education Western Australia (East Perth), Greenwood College (Greenwood), Lynwood Senior High School (Parkwood), and Melville Senior High School (Melville). Western Australia is home to over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering a range of courses for international students. Perth, the state capital, has a vibrant student community and accessible public transport connecting all campuses. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with typical rent for a shared apartment around A$200–A$400 per week. Each school offers a supportive environment for ESL learners. Check with the provider for exact campus addresses and facilities.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Student visa also requires you to maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent or visiting the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au for personalized guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for English as a Second Language (ESL) (Years 7 - 10) at Department of Education:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Confirm that the provider (CRICOS 01723A) and course (052152J) meet your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Contact the Department of Education via www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au. Prepare academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and age verification. Check application deadlines and entry requirements carefully.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa online. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Apply early to allow processing time.
Remember: All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections. For visa help, consult a MARA agent.
Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy.
English as a Second Language (ESL) (Years 7 - 10) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Education. 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.