EF Semester Academic English (CRICOS course code 078898G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by EF International Language Schools Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course falls under the field of Language and Literature (ELICOS) and is designed for international students seeking to improve their English proficiency for academic purposes. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 01070M), EF International Language Schools Pty Ltd meets Australian Government standards for offering courses to overseas students. Whether you're planning to study in South Brisbane or Chippendale, this course provides a structured pathway to enhance your English skills. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no commission, no referral fees — and all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and we're here to help you navigate your options.
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EF Semester Academic English (CRICOS course code 078898G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by EF International Language Schools Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). The course is classified under the field of Education: 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0915 - Language and Literature (ELICOS). It is an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) designed to prepare students for academic English environments. The provider, EF International Language Schools Pty Ltd, is a private institution with CRICOS registration 01070M. This course is offered at two locations: 164 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane, QLD, and 53 Balfour Street, Chippendale, NSW. Both campuses are well-connected by public transport. South Brisbane is home to over 60 CRICOS-registered providers, while Chippendale is near the University of Sydney and other institutions in Sydney's CBD. The course is delivered entirely in English and does not include a work component or dual qualification.
As an ELICOS course, EF Semester Academic English focuses on developing English language skills for academic contexts. Students typically learn reading, writing, listening, speaking, and critical thinking in English. The curriculum is tailored to help students achieve the English proficiency required for further tertiary study in Australia. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, graduates generally improve their ability to participate in academic discussions, write essays, understand lectures, and conduct research. The course level is Non AQF Award, meaning it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification but serves as a pathway or preparation. ELICOS courses are common for international students who need to meet English language requirements for vocational or higher education courses.
EF Semester Academic English has a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months) as registered on the CRICOS database. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The course is likely delivered full-time, though students should confirm the study mode (on-campus or blended) directly with EF International Language Schools Pty Ltd. The standard student visa (Subclass 500) requires full-time study load, so this course meets that requirement. Studying either in South Brisbane or Chippendale gives students access to vibrant student communities. Brisbane has over 120,000 international students, while Sydney hosts more than 200,000. Living costs vary: in Brisbane, indicative weekly rent is around $200-$350, groceries $80-$120, and transport $30-$60; in Sydney, rents are higher ($300-$500 per week) with similar groceries and transport costs.
The indicative tuition fee for EF Semester Academic English is A$5,970 for the full 26 weeks, with non-tuition fees of A$0, giving an estimated total of A$5,970. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website at www.ef.com. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders and costs approximately $500-$700 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by city — as a guide, the Department of Home Affairs recommends $21,041 per year for a single student. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, but we encourage you to confirm all costs with the institution.
English language requirements for EF Semester Academic English vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For ELICOS courses, some providers accept students with lower English levels to improve their skills. Prior qualifications expected: generally, students should have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 10 or 11. This course is a Non AQF Award, so it may serve as a pathway to further study. Foundation or pathway options: refer to EF International Language Schools for any articulation agreements. Always check the specific entry requirements on the provider's website. As this is an English language course, students may need to sit a placement test upon arrival.
No work component. EF Semester Academic English does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides flexibility to gain work experience and support living costs. Remember, work rights are tied to visa conditions — always check the Department of Home Affairs for updates.
This course is delivered at two locations: 164 Melbourne Street, SOUTH BRISBANE, QLD, and 53 Balfour St Chippendale NSW 2008, in Chippendale, NSW. Both campuses are in major student hubs. South Brisbane is part of Brisbane's education precinct, with easy access to buses, trains, and the CityCat ferry. The suburb has a high density of student accommodation and services. Chippendale is adjacent to the University of Sydney and the Sydney CBD, with excellent public transport including trains and buses. Sydney and Brisbane are the two most popular destinations for international students in Australia, offering diverse cultural experiences, part-time work opportunities, and a high standard of living. When choosing a location, consider climate, lifestyle, and proximity to your preferred institution.
To study EF Semester Academic English in Australia, you will need 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 holidays. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, provide evidence of financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The ESOS Act protects international students, ensuring you receive the course as described, access to complaints handling, and a refund if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. Application fees for the visa are approximately $710 (subject to change).
Follow these three steps to enroll in EF Semester Academic English at EF International Language Schools Pty Ltd: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. EF International Language Schools Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01070M) is registered and approved. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution. Check entry requirements, English test scores (if required), and application deadlines on the provider's website (www.ef.com). Submit your application and supporting documents. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have the CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For step-by-step guidance, see HeadStart Academy's student visa page.
Before choosing EF Semester Academic English, consider your goals. ELICOS courses are ideal if you need to improve English for further study or personal development. Australia offers world-class education and a multicultural environment. Brisbane and Sydney are vibrant cities with many student amenities. However, living costs can be high — budget accordingly. Check if the course level aligns with your future plans. If you aim to progress to a degree, ensure the provider offers pathways. HeadStart Academy has resources to compare courses and providers. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act.
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EF Semester Academic English is a CRICOS-registered programme at EF International Language Schools 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.