Cambridge Preliminary English Test (PET) Preparation Course (Intermediate) (CRICOS course code 058334K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This ELICOS course is designed for intermediate-level English learners aiming to pass the Cambridge Preliminary English Test (PET). The programme focuses on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills within a Cambridge exam context. Delivered at Holmes Secondary College (ELICOS Operations) in Sydney, NSW, the course provides a supportive environment for international students to improve their English proficiency and gain a recognised Cambridge qualification. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for international student enrolment and student visa eligibility. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about your study in Australia. This ELICOS course falls under the field of Education (Society and Culture – Language and Literature). Students build confidence in everyday English and exam techniques. Successful completion can lead to further English study or general academic pathways. Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00040C) is a private provider with a strong reputation for language training. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, choosing a registered course ensures you are protected by the ESOS Act. Sydney itself is home to hundreds of educational institutions and offers a vibrant multicultural lifestyle.
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This course is classified under the field of Education (Society and Culture – Language and Literature), specifically ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). At the intermediate level, you will develop your ability to communicate effectively in everyday situations, understand main points of clear standard speech, produce simple connected text, and describe experiences and events. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for the Cambridge PET exam, which assesses practical English skills. While the exact syllabus is set by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd, typical topics include travel, work, and social interactions. Graduates often move on to higher-level English courses or use the qualification for academic or professional purposes.
The Cambridge PET Preparation Course (Intermediate) has a duration of 12 weeks (12 weeks as per the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course, meaning no dual qualifications are awarded. The course is delivered full-time, typically requiring 20-25 hours per week of class time. As an on-campus programme, students benefit from face-to-face interaction with qualified instructors and peers. All international students must maintain satisfactory attendance to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative fees for this course are as follows: tuition fee A$4,200, non-tuition fees A$420, estimated total A$4,620. Please note: these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport – approximately AUD 1,500–2,500 per month in Sydney), and the Student visa application charge (currently AUD 710). For the most up-to-date fees, visit Holmes Colleges Sydney's website at www.holmes.edu.au.
Entry requirements for this course are determined by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd. As a general guide for ELICOS courses at this level, students typically need English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5 overall, though specific requirements may vary. For Cambridge PET preparation, an intermediate level (B1 on the CEFR) is usually expected. Some providers may require completion of a lower-level English course. No prior work experience or formal qualifications are necessary, but students must demonstrate sufficient English capability. Always check directly with Holmes Colleges for their specific entry criteria. Foundation or pathway options: Refer to the provider for bridging courses or conditional offers.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain part-time work experience while studying.
This course is delivered at Holmes Secondary College (ELICOS Operations) in Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and a major hub for international education. The campus is likely located in the Sydney CBD or inner suburbs, with good access to public transport (trains, buses, ferries). Sydney offers a high cost of living: average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around AUD 2,000–2,500 per month, with groceries and transport adding AUD 800–1,200. However, the city provides a vibrant cultural scene, famous beaches, and world-class amenities. There are over 400 CRICOS-registered institutions in Sydney alone, offering more than 8,000 courses.
International students enrolling in this course must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Holmes Colleges, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Current work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays. The visa application charge is AUD 710 (as of 2026). HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Sydney is an excellent choice for English language study. With its large international student community, you'll have ample opportunity to practise English outside the classroom. The city boasts diverse social activities, from harbour cruises to hiking in national parks. However, the cost of living is high, particularly housing. If you prefer a more affordable option, consider studying in cities like Adelaide or Brisbane. For those set on Sydney, budgeting carefully is essential. The Cambridge PET qualification is recognised globally, and studying in a major English-speaking city can accelerate your language progress.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Cambridge PET Preparation Course (Intermediate) at Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's resources to filter courses by level, field, and city. Verify that Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00040C) and this course (058334K) meet your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements (English test scores, application deadlines) and submit your application to Holmes Colleges. You may need to provide evidence of English proficiency and academic records.
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 apply for your Student visa. Ensure you meet GTE, financial, and OSHC requirements. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance, but always consult official sources.
Ready to apply? Start your journey with HeadStart Academy today.
Cambridge Preliminary English Test (PET) Preparation Course (Intermediate) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmes Colleges Sydney 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.