Senior High School (Preparation / Bridging) (CRICOS course code 079331F) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by Department for Education, Children and Young People over 30 weeks (~7 months). This course is designed for international students who need to strengthen their academic skills and English language proficiency before entering senior secondary study in Tasmania. It is a bridging program that prepares students for Year 11 and Year 12 at one of six government colleges across the state. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 03352G), it meets Australian Government standards for international education, including ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Whether you are looking to transition into the Australian education system or improve your academic readiness, this course offers a structured pathway in a supportive environment.
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Senior High School (Preparation / Bridging) (CRICOS 079331F) is a 30-week program offered by the Tasmanian Department for Education, Children and Young People. It falls under the field of General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes (code 120101), which encompasses foundational learning in literacy, numeracy, science, and humanities. The course is tailored for international students who have completed secondary schooling overseas but require additional preparation to meet Australian curriculum standards. Graduates typically progress to senior secondary certificate studies (Year 11–12) at the same college or another Tasmanian institution. The program includes English language support, study skills development, and orientation to Australian education culture. All classes are conducted in English at one of six government colleges: Don College (Devonport), Elizabeth College (Hobart), Hobart College (Mount Nelson), Launceston College (Launceston), Newstead College (Launceston), and Rosny College (Rosny Park). These colleges are located in Tasmania's major urban centres, providing access to student support services and public transport.
As a preparation and bridging program, the curriculum focuses on building foundational knowledge across key learning areas typical of Australian senior secondary education. Students engage in subjects such as English as an Additional Language (EAL), mathematics, science, humanities, and study skills. The field of education (120101 - General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes) indicates a broad-based approach rather than specialist vocational training. Students develop critical thinking, research skills, and collaborative learning techniques essential for success in Year 11–12. Assessment methods include assignments, examinations, and practical projects. Upon completion, students are equipped to pursue the Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE) or equivalent. The course does not lead to a dual qualification nor does it count as foundation studies for university; rather, it is a preparatory year before senior secondary studies. For precise syllabus details, contact the Department for Education directly.
The course runs for 30 weeks, approximately 7 months, as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered face-to-face at the college campuses in Tasmania. The language of instruction is English. There is no work component included. This is a single qualification course (no dual award). Students are expected to attend classes during standard school hours, Monday to Friday. The duration may be extended if additional language support is needed, but the standard CRICOS duration is 30 weeks. International students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory attendance. The program aligns with the Australian school year calendar, typically beginning in Term 1 (February) or Term 3 (July). Always confirm start dates with the provider.
The indicative tuition fee for Senior High School (Preparation / Bridging) is A$13,800, with non-tuition fees of A$12,650, bringing the estimated total to A$26,450. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Tasmania range from A$400–$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, depending on location. For current fees, always check the Department for Education, Children and Young People website at https://study.tas.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not responsible for fee changes.
International students typically need an overall IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for admission. Equivalent tests include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Applicants should have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 10 or above in their home country. Prior academic records and English proficiency are assessed by the provider. No foundation or pathway course is required prior to this program, as it is itself a bridging course. However, some students may need additional English language training; this can be arranged through the college. For exact requirements, contact the Department for Education, Children and Young People directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is purely academic preparation for senior secondary studies. 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 breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, work is not integrated into the curriculum.
The course is offered at six government colleges across Tasmania, providing options for students in different regions: Don College (Devonport, TAS), Elizabeth College (Hobart, TAS), Hobart College (Mount Nelson, TAS), Launceston College (Launceston, TAS), Newstead College (Launceston, TAS), and Rosny College (Rosny Park, TAS). Each college is located in a major urban centre with access to public transport, accommodation, and student services. Tasmania has a smaller but close-knit international student community, with affordable living costs compared to mainland cities. For example, Hobart offers a vibrant cultural scene and natural attractions, while Launceston provides a quieter study environment. When choosing a location, consider proximity to homestay or rental options, as well as your personal preferences.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500) if they are 18 years or older. Students under 18 typically require a Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) for an accompanying parent or guardian. As part of the visa application, students must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The course meets the requirements for the Student Visa as it is CRICOS-registered (079331F). ESOS Act protections ensure students receive a refund or alternative placement if the provider fails to deliver. For visa details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
Tasmania offers a unique study experience with a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. Median weekly rent in Hobart is around A$400–$500, and public transport is affordable with student concession cards. The state has a strong education system with CRICOS-registered providers across all levels. International students appreciate the safe environment, natural beauty, and supportive communities. However, Tasmania has fewer cultural and entertainment options compared to larger cities. If you prefer a focused study environment with access to outdoor activities, Tasmania could be ideal. Consider also that the state has a smaller number of CRICOS-registered providers (around 30) compared to over 1,500 nationally, so course options may be more limited. Visit HeadStart Academy's Tasmania page for more details.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Senior High School (Preparation / Bridging) at Department for Education, Children and Young People: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's search to filter courses by level, field, and city. Confirm the course code 079331F and provider 03352G. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the Department's website (study.tas.gov.au) or contact the international student office of the college you prefer. Submit your application, academic transcripts, English test results, and meet any deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa online, including GTE declaration, financial evidence, and OSHC.
Ready to apply? Visit the Department for Education, Children and Young People's website at https://study.tas.gov.au for application details and current fees.
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Senior High School (Preparation / Bridging) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department for Education, Children and Young People. 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.