English for Academic Purposes 20 (CRICOS course code 064266M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by TAFE SA over 26 weeks (~6 months). This ELICOS course is designed to help international students develop the English language skills needed for academic study in Australian universities or further vocational training. Offered at TAFE SA's Adelaide City Campus, it is part of Australia's extensive ELICOS sector, which supports over 150,000 international students annually. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00092B), it meets strict Australian Government standards, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. Whether you are planning to pursue a degree or simply improve your academic English, this course provides a structured pathway to success. All data on this page comes directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), offering you reliable information to make informed decisions.
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English for Academic Purposes 20 (CRICOS course code 064266M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by TAFE SA over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course falls under the field of education '091501 - ELICOS' (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), which is part of the broader Society and Culture category. ELICOS courses are designed to help international students improve their English proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. TAFE SA, a government-owned provider with CRICOS registration 00092B, is one of Australia's largest vocational education and training institutions, offering a wide range of courses at multiple campuses. This particular course focuses on developing the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills necessary for success in an English-speaking academic environment. Students will engage with authentic academic materials, learn to write essays and reports, participate in discussions, and deliver presentations. The course is ideal for those planning to enter undergraduate or postgraduate programs or seeking to enhance their English for professional advancement.
As an ELICOS course, English for Academic Purposes 20 provides intensive English language training tailored to academic contexts. Students typically cover academic vocabulary, grammar, and discourse conventions, as well as critical thinking and research skills. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between students' current English proficiency and the level required for tertiary study in Australia. Graduates often achieve IELTS scores of 5.5 to 6.5 or equivalent, enabling them to pursue diploma or degree programs. The course emphasizes practical communication skills, including note-taking, summarizing, and debating, as well as cross-cultural understanding essential for international students. While the exact syllabus is set by TAFE SA, prospective students can expect a comprehensive program that prepares them for the linguistic and cultural demands of Australian higher education. The course is full-time and delivered in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component.
The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study is full-time, with classes typically held Monday to Friday at TAFE SA's Adelaide City Campus. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (Non AQF Award) – not part of a dual or packaged program. Students are expected to attend all scheduled sessions and actively participate in learning activities. The duration may be extended if students require additional language support, but the standard CRICOS registration is 26 weeks. This timeframe allows for significant improvement in English proficiency, equivalent to approximately one IELTS band score gain. Students should plan their visa accordingly, ensuring their Student visa (Subclass 500) covers the full period of study plus any additional time for orientation or settlement.
Tuition for English for Academic Purposes 20 is A$8,040, with non-tuition fees of A$0, giving an estimated total of A$8,040. These fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. They are set by TAFE SA and subject to change; always confirm directly with the provider before applying. The following costs are not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover, living expenses (estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student in Adelaide as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). For the most up-to-date fee information, visit the TAFE SA international website at http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international. Remember, CRICOS-registered providers must adhere to the ESOS Act, ensuring transparency and protection for international students.
Entry requirements vary by provider. For English for Academic Purposes 20 at TAFE SA, the English language requirement typically falls between IELTS 5.5 and 7.0 overall, depending on the target academic level. Some students may enter with a lower score and progress through multiple ELICOS levels. Prior academic qualifications are usually not required for this level, but applicants must have completed at least Year 12 or equivalent in their home country. Some providers also require students to be at least 18 years old. TAFE SA may offer placement tests to determine the appropriate starting level. Foundation or pathway options: if you do not meet the English requirement, TAFE SA may offer a pathway program – contact them directly. Always check with TAFE SA for specific entry criteria, as requirements can change. CRICOS-registered courses must have transparent admission policies.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component or internship. However, as a full-time student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain valuable work experience and offset living costs while studying in Adelaide.
English for Academic Purposes 20 is delivered at TAFE SA's Adelaide City Campus in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a vibrant, affordable city with a population of over 1.3 million, including more than 30,000 international students. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses, trams, and trains, making it easily accessible from suburbs and the city center. Adelaide's cost of living is lower than Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent for a city apartment is around A$250–$350, groceries A$60–$80, and a monthly public transport pass about A$100. The city is known for its festivals, food, and friendly atmosphere, offering a safe and welcoming environment for international students. For a full list of study options in Society and Culture in Adelaide, explore our dedicated page.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, such as this one at TAFE SA. Key conditions include: maintain satisfactory course attendance and academic progress, hold adequate OSHC, and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status – you must intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Financial capacity requirements include covering tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel. As of 2024, indicative living costs are A$21,041 per year for a single student. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependents may have separate work conditions. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. For visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three simple steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure your chosen course is CRICOS-registered (like this one).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit TAFE SA's international website (http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international) to check entry requirements, submit your application, and provide evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE). Note application deadlines and required documents.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once TAFE SA issues a CoE, you can apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements. Seek professional advice if needed.
Adelaide is an excellent choice for international students studying English. With over 30,000 international students and multiple CRICOS-registered providers, the city offers a supportive environment for language learners. The cost of living is among the lowest of Australia's major cities, making it ideal for students on a budget. Adelaide's public transport system connects all campuses, and the city is known for its safety and multicultural community. The ELICOS sector in Adelaide includes both public and private providers, offering a range of courses from general English to academic preparation. Studying here gives you exposure to a clear Australian accent and a vibrant lifestyle. Available data shows that Adelaide has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering ELICOS programs. For a broader view of study options in Society and Culture in Adelaide, visit our dedicated page.
Begin your journey – explore TAFE SA's English for Academic Purposes 20 course today. For current fees and application details, visit their international website or use HeadStart Academy to compare other ELICOS options in Adelaide.
English for Academic Purposes 20 is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.