Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) (CRICOS course code 074533C) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by Stella Maris College over 2 years. Located in Manly, a coastal suburb of Sydney, this course is designed for international students seeking to complete their secondary education in Australia and obtain a qualification recognised for university entry. Stella Maris College is a private Catholic school registered on CRICOS (provider code 03290E) with a strong academic tradition. The course covers Years 11 and 12, culminating in the New South Wales Higher School Certificate (HSC), which is widely accepted by Australian universities. Students study a range of subjects including English, mathematics, science, and humanities, with electives available to tailor their learning. The school offers a supportive environment with dedicated international student services. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Stella Maris College meets the rigorous standards of the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and student protections. This page provides comprehensive information on fees, entry requirements, visa conditions, and how to apply.
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This course falls under the field of education 'General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes' (code 120101), part of Mixed Field Programmes. Students undertake a general senior secondary curriculum that prepares them for higher education or employment. The typical course of study includes compulsory subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science, along with elective choices from areas like History, Geography, Languages, and Creative Arts. The program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent learning. Upon completion, students receive the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, which in New South Wales is the Higher School Certificate (HSC). This qualification is highly regarded and meets entry requirements for most Australian universities and vocational courses. International students gain a globally recognised certificate that demonstrates academic readiness and language proficiency in English. The curriculum is designed to meet the Australian Curriculum standards, ensuring consistency and quality across subjects. Assessment includes both internal school-based tasks and external HSC examinations.
The Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) course is a full-time program with a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. Students attend classes on campus at Stella Maris College in Manly, with instruction delivered entirely in English. The course leads to a single qualification: the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (HSC). There is no dual qualification or VET component. The study load typically includes 20-25 hours of classroom time per week, plus additional study and homework. The school follows the NSW school term calendar, with breaks aligning with standard Australian school holidays. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. The program is structured to progressively build knowledge and skills over the two years, with Year 11 serving as a foundation for the more advanced Year 12 curriculum. Assessment is continuous, with final examinations at the end of Year 12.
The indicative tuition fee for the Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) course at Stella Maris College is A$99,000 for the entire 2-year program. Non-tuition fees, which may include enrolment, materials, and miscellaneous charges, are estimated at A$12,640. The total estimated cost is A$111,640. Please note that these figures are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600) are not included. For current fee schedules and additional costs, always confirm directly with Stella Maris College at www.stellamaris.nsw.edu.au. International students should budget for living expenses in Sydney, including rent (approximately A$250-400 per week for shared accommodation), groceries (A$70-120 per week), and transport (A$30-50 per week). These are indicative estimates from Numbeo and may vary.
Entry into Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) requires international students to meet academic and English language standards. Typical academic prerequisites include completion of Year 10 or equivalent in the student's home country. Students should have a good academic record with satisfactory grades in core subjects like English and Mathematics. The recommended English language proficiency for direct entry is IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL iBT 35-45, PTE Academic 36-42, or Cambridge B1 Preliminary). Students who have studied in an English-medium school may be exempt from English testing at the provider's discretion. Stella Maris College may also require an interview or assessment. Foundation or pathway options are not offered as part of this course, but students who need additional English support can inquire about intensive English language courses (ELICOS) available from the college or other providers. For specific entry requirements and to verify eligibility, contact Stella Maris College directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. 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 school holidays. This work entitlement is separate from the course itself and is subject to visa conditions. Work placements or internships are not part of the curriculum. Students should focus on their studies and ensure that any employment does not interfere with their academic progress. ESOS protections ensure that the course is delivered as registered, and students can access support services if needed. For more information on work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent.
The Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) course is delivered on campus at Stella Maris College, located at 151 Darley Road, Manly, NSW 2095. Manly is a popular coastal suburb in northern Sydney, approximately 30 minutes by ferry from the Sydney CBD. The area is known for its beaches, vibrant community, and excellent schools. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), there are over 1,100 registered providers in New South Wales offering more than 26,000 courses, with Sydney being a major destination for international students. Manly has a mix of public and private schools, but Stella Maris College is one of the few private institutions offering a comprehensive international student program. The college is accessible by public transport, including buses and the Manly Fast Ferry. Living costs in Manly are similar to other Sydney suburbs, with rent averaging A$300-500 per week for a room in a shared house. Students enjoy a safe, beachside environment with good amenities.
Manly offers a unique lifestyle for international students, combining a relaxed beach atmosphere with proximity to Sydney's city center. It has a lower density of international students compared to the CBD, which can be an advantage for those seeking a more immersive English-speaking environment. The area has good educational resources, libraries, and sporting facilities. Public transport includes buses and ferries, with a ferry journey to Circular Quay taking about 20 minutes. Weekly living costs are estimated at A$400-600 total, including rent, food, and transport, though this can vary. Students should consider their comfort with a smaller school environment (Stella Maris College has approximately 1,000 students) and the Catholic ethos of the school, which may include religious studies and values. The school provides support for international students, including orientation, academic counselling, and homestay arrangements. Before choosing, visit the school's website or arrange a virtual tour.
International students studying Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) on a full-time basis require a Student visa (Subclass 500). If the student is under 18 years of age, an accompanying parent or guardian may need to apply for a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled school holidays. All students must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be met, demonstrating a genuine intention to study and return home after completion. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The student visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered MARA agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring your rights as an international student.
Follow these three steps to apply for Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) at Stella Maris College:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the HeadStart Academy course finder to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Stella Maris College (CRICOS 03290E) meets your needs. Review the course details, fees, and entry requirements.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Stella Maris College's website at www.stellamaris.nsw.edu.au to obtain the application form and specific requirements. Prepare necessary documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5 or equivalent), and a copy of your passport. Submit the application along with any application fee (if applicable). Deadlines vary by intake; contact admissions for current dates.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: If your application is successful, the college will issue a CoE. Use this CoE to apply for a Student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary, so apply early. Once granted, you can make travel arrangements.
Start your application to Senior Secondary at Stella Maris College today. Research CRICOS providers and apply directly.
All Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses in New South Wales →
Senior Secondary (Years 11 and 12) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Stella Maris College. 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.