High School Preparation (Pre-Intermediate to Upper-Intermediate) (12 to 32 weeks) (CRICOS course code 085591B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Macquarie Grammar School Limited over 32 weeks (~7 months). This course is designed for international students who need to improve their English language skills before entering an Australian high school. The program covers pre-intermediate to upper-intermediate levels, helping students build the language proficiency required for academic success. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03330B), Macquarie Grammar School ensures the course meets the standards for international students. Whether you're planning to study at a secondary school or simply want to strengthen your English, this course provides a solid foundation. With a duration of 32 weeks, you'll have ample time to progress through the levels. The indicative total fee is A$40,085, including tuition and non-tuition costs. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you compare CRICOS-registered courses and providers. Note that this course does not include a work component, and visa conditions apply for international students.
Macquarie Grammar School Limited (CRICOS 03330B) is a private provider based in Sydney, NSW. The school's ELICOS operations deliver this High School Preparation course to equip students with the English skills needed for mainstream secondary education. The course is classified under Field of Education 091501 (ELICOS) within the broader Society and Culture field. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to a formal qualification but prepares students for further study. The CRICOS course code 085591B is your key identifier when applying for a student visa. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of them. The ESOS Act protects international students, ensuring education quality and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy provides this data free of charge, sourced directly from the CRICOS register.
This ELICOS course focuses on developing English language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking at a pre-intermediate to upper-intermediate level. Students will learn academic vocabulary, grammar, and communication strategies necessary for high school subjects. The curriculum typically includes project-based learning, group discussions, and cultural orientation to life in Australia. While specific syllabus details are determined by the provider, the goal is to bring students to a level where they can confidently participate in mainstream classes. Graduates of this course are prepared to transition into secondary education or further English study.
The course runs for 32 weeks (~7 months) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual qualification). The study mode is full-time, delivered on campus at Macquarie Grammar School's ELICOS Operations in Sydney. There is no online or part-time option for this CRICOS registration. The duration is fixed, though some providers may offer flexibility; check with Macquarie Grammar School for exact start dates.
The indicative tuition fee is A$27,200, with non-tuition fees of A$12,885, totalling A$40,085. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Non-tuition fees may include application charges, materials, and administrative costs. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$500–600 per week in Sydney), and the visa application charge are not included. Always confirm current fees with Macquarie Grammar School at www.macquariegrammarschool.edu.au before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider. For this High School Preparation course, you typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–7.0 overall depending on your current level. Since the course is designed for pre-intermediate to upper-intermediate students, a minimum of IELTS 5.0 may be acceptable for lower levels. Prior educational qualifications are not strictly required for this non-award course, but you must demonstrate the ability to benefit from the program. Some providers may require a minimum age (usually 16+) and a genuine intention to study. For specific requirements, contact Macquarie Grammar School. Foundation or pathway options are available; refer to the provider for details.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder, you may be eligible to work part-time: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies, and you must not nominate work as the primary reason for study.
The course is delivered at Macquarie Grammar School (ELICOS Operations) in Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia’s largest city, with over 1 million international students. It offers excellent public transport, diverse cultural experiences, and a vibrant lifestyle. The school is located in the Sydney CBD, accessible via trains, buses, and ferries. Studying in Sydney gives you access to world-class education and networking opportunities. For more on studying in NSW, see our NSW study guide.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa requires you to be enrolled full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, maintain OSHC, and meet genuine temporary entrant criteria. You can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. After receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie Grammar School, you can apply for the visa. The current visa application charge is around AUD 1,600. Ensure you have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (approx. AUD 21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but recommends consulting a registered migration agent for specific advice.
Sydney is a multicultural hub with a high demand for English language skills. With over 50 ELICOS providers in the city, you have plenty of choices. Living costs are higher than other Australian cities, with weekly rent averaging AUD 300–500 for a shared apartment, groceries AUD 80–150, and transport AUD 40–60. The city is safe and student-friendly. If you plan to progress to a high school or university, this course can bridge the gap. Consider your budget, goals, and preference for city life versus quieter areas. HeadStart Academy helps you compare all options across Australia.
Follow these three steps to enrol in High School Preparation (Pre-Intermediate to Upper-Intermediate) (12 to 32 weeks) at Macquarie Grammar School Limited: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm the course code 085591B is listed. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements, take an English test if needed, and submit your application with required documents (passport, academic records). Check application deadlines for your intakes. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Macquarie Grammar School will issue a CoE. Use it to apply for a visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Explore this and other CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy.
High School Preparation (Pre-Intermediate to Upper-Intermediate) (12 to 32 weeks) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie Grammar School Limited. 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.