Cambridge First Certificate Preparation Course (CRICOS course code 073934E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Cairns College of English Pty Ltd over 16 weeks. This course prepares international students for the Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE) exam, enhancing their English language skills for academic or professional purposes. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Use this guide to understand everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, study locations, and visa implications.
Cambridge First Certificate Preparation Course (CRICOS course code 073934E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Cairns College of English Pty Ltd over 16 weeks. The course falls under the field of Education: 09 Society and Culture, specifically 0915 Language and Literature, and 091501 ELICOS. It is designed for students aiming to achieve the Cambridge First Certificate, a globally recognised English qualification. Cairns College of English Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03251A) is a private institution registered to deliver this course to international students. All CRICOS-registered courses are subject to ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student rights. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this course is one of them.
This ELICOS course focuses on developing English language proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with an emphasis on exam preparation. Students will learn grammar, vocabulary, and communication strategies needed to succeed in the Cambridge First Certificate exam. The course also covers study skills and cultural orientation to help international students adapt to life in Australia. Graduates typically achieve a level of English equivalent to B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), enabling them to pursue further study or employment in English-speaking environments. The curriculum is designed to build confidence in using English in real-world contexts.
The course is taught over 16 weeks (16 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award). The course is delivered on a full-time basis, as required for student visa holders. Students attend classes at the campus location, with no online or distance learning component for this course. The 16-week duration allows for intensive language development and exam practice.
Indicative fees for this course are set by Cairns College of English Pty Ltd: tuition A$3,995, non-tuition fees A$0, estimated total A$3,995. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.cceb.qld.edu.au. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. International students should budget approximately A$20,000–A$25,000 per year for living expenses in Cairns, plus OSHC (around A$500–A$600 per year for single cover). These are indicative estimates only.
English language requirements vary by provider. For this level, typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level. You may also provide equivalent scores from PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English. Prior academic qualifications expected: completion of secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12. Foundation or pathway options are available – refer to the provider for details. Some students may require a bridging program if they do not meet the English proficiency threshold. Always check the specific admission criteria with Cairns College of English Pty Ltd.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, as a student visa holder, you may be eligible to work part-time: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain work experience and supplement your living costs while studying.
The course is delivered at 27 Aplin St, CAIRNS CITY QLD 4870, in the city centre of Cairns. Cairns is a popular study destination in tropical North Queensland, home to several CRICOS-registered providers. The city has a vibrant student community and offers a relaxed lifestyle. Public transport includes buses and a network of bike paths. Living costs in Cairns are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$150–A$200, groceries A$80–A$120, and transport A$30–A$50. The campus is close to cafes, shops, and the Esplanade, providing a convenient and enjoyable study environment.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs. Note that visa conditions are subject to change, so always check current requirements.
Cairns is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, offering a unique study experience. With a population of around 150,000, it has a small but diverse international student community. The city has several CRICOS-registered providers offering ELICOS and other courses. Studying in Cairns means you can enjoy a tropical climate and outdoor lifestyle while pursuing your education. Consider factors like climate, culture, and cost of living when deciding if Cairns is right for you. The relaxed pace may appeal to students seeking a balance between study and lifestyle.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course at Cairns College of English Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Compare providers like Cairns College of English Pty Ltd to find the best fit. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application through the provider’s website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
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Cambridge First Certificate Preparation Course is a CRICOS-registered programme at Cairns College of English 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.