IELTS Preparation (CRICOS course code 073937B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Cairns College of English Pty Ltd over 38 weeks (~9 months). This course is designed for international students who want to improve their English language skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Cairns College of English Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03251A) is a private institution located in Cairns, Queensland, offering a focused program to help students achieve their target IELTS band score. Whether you plan to study further, work, or migrate, this course builds the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills required for success. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act, and CRICOS registration ensures the course meets Australian quality standards.
IELTS Preparation (CRICOS 073937B) is a Non AQF Award level course in the field of Education: 09 – Society and Culture, subfield 0915 – Language and Literature, specifically ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). Delivered by Cairns College of English Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03251A), the program runs for 38 weeks (approximately 9 months) with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The course is ideal for students aiming to meet English entry requirements for higher education or visa purposes. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students benefit from the ESOS Act's tuition protection and welfare safeguards. Note: This course does not include a work component.
The IELTS Preparation course focuses on intensive English language training tailored to the IELTS test format. While specific curriculum details are set by Cairns College of English, students typically develop advanced skills in academic reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The course covers test strategies, time management, and practice tasks to build confidence for all four IELTS modules. As an ELICOS program, it also immerses students in Australian English and cultural contexts, helping them adapt to living and studying in Australia. Upon completion, graduates are better prepared to sit the IELTS exam and achieve scores required for university admission, professional registration, or visa applications.
The course duration is 38 weeks (~9 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English, and the program is delivered on a full-time basis. It is a single qualification, meaning no additional dual qualification is awarded. Students are expected to attend classes at the provider's campus. There is no online or distance learning option for this specific CRICOS course. The standard study load for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) is 20 hours per week of scheduled contact time, plus independent study.
Tuition fees for IELTS Preparation are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026. The costs are set by Cairns College of English Pty Ltd and subject to change. Always confirm directly with the provider before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider. For IELTS Preparation courses, institutions typically expect applicants to have an IELTS score between 5.5 and 7.0 overall, depending on the course level. However, some providers may accept equivalent test scores (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) or evidence of prior English-medium study. Academic entry requirements: Since this is a Non AQF Award, no specific prior qualification is mandated, but students should have completed secondary education in their home country. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this stand-alone ELICOS course. Contact Cairns College of English for detailed entry criteria and English test validity periods.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, Student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are not tied to this course but to the student visa itself.
This course is delivered at 27 Aplin St, CAIRNS CITY, QLD 4870. Cairns is a major city in tropical North Queensland, known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and a vibrant international student community. The campus is centrally located, with easy access to public transport, accommodation, and amenities. Cairns has several CRICOS-registered providers, and living costs are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. Indicative weekly costs: rent $200–$350, groceries $70–$100, and public transport $30–$50.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa requires genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Students on a Student visa can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependants may accompany the student with limited work rights. Always verify current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Cairns offers a unique study environment for international students. With a warm climate, affordable cost of living, and a welcoming community, it is an ideal location to focus on English studies. The city has several ELICOS providers, and students benefit from small class sizes and personalised attention. Beyond the classroom, Cairns provides opportunities to practise English in real-life settings – from markets to excursions. Public transport connects the campus to surrounding suburbs. The local student population includes many from Asia, Europe, and South America, creating a multicultural atmosphere. Consider the lifestyle, climate, and support services when choosing Cairns for your IELTS preparation.
Follow these three steps to enrol in IELTS Preparation at Cairns College of English Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Cairns). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (03251A). 2. Apply directly to the institution: Check entry requirements (English level, prior qualifications) and submit your application along with supporting documents. The provider will issue a Letter of Offer if you meet the criteria. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). With the CoE, lodge your visa application online, including OSHC and financial evidence. Do not travel without a valid visa.
Ready to boost your IELTS score? Explore more CRICOS-registered ELICOS courses with HeadStart Academy.
IELTS Preparation 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.