High School Preparation (CRICOS course code 078703B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This course is designed for international students who need to improve their English language skills and academic knowledge before entering mainstream secondary schooling in Australia. Offered at the provider's Sydney campus, the program aligns with the Field of Education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), focusing on language proficiency and study skills. As a CRICOS-registered course (078703B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student programs. STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03349B) is a private provider committed to quality education for overseas students. Understanding the course structure, fees, and visa requirements is essential for a successful study plan. HeadStart Academy provides this detailed guide to help you make informed decisions.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
High School Preparation (CRICOS course code 078703B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). The course is classified under the field of English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS), specifically within the broader Society and Culture discipline. It is not a dual qualification nor a foundation studies program, and there is no mandatory work component. The program is taught entirely in English and is intended to prepare students for entry into Australian high schools. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, ensuring quality and compliance with the ESOS Act. Data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, covering over 26,000 courses across Australia.
As a High School Preparation course within the ELICOS field, students focus on developing English language proficiency across reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The curriculum typically includes academic English, study skills, and cultural orientation to help students transition into mainstream high school subjects. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the general aim is to build the language competencies needed to succeed in an Australian educational environment. Graduates are expected to achieve a level of English sufficient to undertake secondary schooling, often targeting an IELTS equivalent of 5.5 or higher. The course also introduces students to Australian classroom practices, assessment methods, and independent learning strategies.
The High School Preparation course has a duration of 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the qualification is a single Non AQF Award (no dual qualification). Students attend classes full-time at the Sydney campus. The intensive nature of the program ensures that learners make rapid progress in their English skills. Course schedules may vary, but typical ELICOS programs run 20-25 hours per week. International students should ensure their student visa (Subclass 500) allows for the specified course duration and study load.
Indicative tuition fees for High School Preparation (078703B) are A$17,500 for the entire program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$17,500. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current fee schedules, always visit the provider's website at www.scic.nsw.edu.au. Sydney's cost of living is higher than the national average; indicative weekly rent for a room in a shared house is around A$250–350, groceries A$70–100, and public transport A$40–60. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee fees – always verify directly.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For High School Preparation, the required English level is usually lower, often IELTS 4.0–5.0 or equivalent, as the course itself aims to improve English. Prior qualifications expected: international students must have completed secondary schooling in their home country to a level suitable for entry into Australian high schools. Some providers may consider foundation or pathway options for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – check with STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd. Applicants should also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. Consult a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are tied to the enrolled course; part-time work can help offset living costs but should not interfere with study progress. Always check your visa grant conditions for specific work limitations.
High School Preparation (078703B) is delivered at: Level 3, 233 Castlereagh Street, Sydney 2000 – in the heart of Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and a vibrant international student community. The campus is conveniently located near public transport (train, bus, light rail) and close to cultural attractions, shops, and accommodation. Sydney has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs here are higher than in regional areas, but the city offers diverse opportunities. The campus is within walking distance of Central Station, making it easily accessible.
International students enrolled in High School Preparation (078703B) will need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. This visa requires genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the stay, and proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After completing the course, students may apply for further visas to continue their education (e.g., a subsequent school course) or transition to other visa pathways. For detailed visa requirements, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for High School Preparation (078703B) at STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city). Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and confirm CRICOS registration. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution. Check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications) and application deadlines. STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd will assess your application and issue a Letter of Offer if successful. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you accept the offer and pay any required deposits, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Choosing a High School Preparation course is a critical step for international students planning to enter Australian secondary education. Consider the following: ensure the course is CRICOS-registered (like 078703B) to guarantee quality and visa eligibility. The location matters – Sydney offers a bustling multicultural environment but comes with higher living costs compared to regional areas. The duration (60 weeks) is typical for ELICOS programs; students should plan their finances accordingly. Also evaluate the provider's reputation, support services (e.g., homestay assistance, academic counselling), and pathways to mainstream high schools. Finally, understand that completing this course does not guarantee school admission – students must still meet the entry requirements of their chosen high school. Use HeadStart Academy's resources to explore all options.
Ready to apply? Research CRICOS-registered High School Preparation courses on HeadStart Academy and take the first step towards studying in Australia.
View the full STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd profile →
High School Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at STEPS Sunshine Coast International College 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.