High School Preparation (CRICOS course code 087993A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Department of Education over 1 year. This program is designed for international students who want to improve their English language skills and academic readiness before entering mainstream high school in Queensland. As an ELICOS course under the field of Society and Culture (Language and Literature), it focuses on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills to a level suitable for high school study. Department of Education (CRICOS 00608A) is a government provider, ensuring high standards of quality and support. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which includes over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ registered providers. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student in Australia.
High School Preparation (CRICOS 087993A) is a Non AQF Award level course, meaning it does not lead to a formal qualification but prepares students for further study. It is classified under the field of education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). The program is delivered by the Queensland Department of Education, a government entity that operates numerous state schools across Queensland. This course is ideal for students who have completed their schooling overseas and need to strengthen their English proficiency to meet the entry requirements of Australian high schools. With a focus on academic English, students gain confidence in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, as well as study skills essential for success in a mainstream classroom. The course is CRICOS-registered, ensuring it meets Australian government standards for international education.
The High School Preparation curriculum is tailored to the needs of international students preparing for secondary education. While specific syllabi may vary by location, the core components typically include English language development across all four macro skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students also engage with subject-specific vocabulary (e.g., maths, science, humanities) and learn how to participate in group discussions, deliver presentations, and complete written assignments. Cultural orientation is often integrated to help students adapt to life in Australia. The course is immersive, with a strong emphasis on communication and critical thinking. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an English proficiency level equivalent to IELTS 5.5 or higher, depending on their target high school year level. This foundation prepares them for the academic demands of an Australian high school environment.
According to the CRICOS register, High School Preparation has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The course is taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification, meaning there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Study mode is full-time on campus at one of the designated delivery locations. The course is not available online. Given the intensive nature of language learning, students are expected to attend classes daily and participate in all scheduled activities. The program is structured to allow steady progression through language levels, with assessments at regular intervals to monitor improvement. Successful completion of the course may enable direct entry into a Queensland state high school, subject to meeting any additional school-specific requirements.
The indicative fees for High School Preparation, as recorded on the CRICOS register, are as follows: tuition fee A$25,480, non-tuition fee A$18,488, making a total estimated cost of A$43,968. These fees are set by Department of Education and are subject to change. Please confirm current fees on the provider's website (www.eqi.com.au). Please note that the estimated total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. International students should budget additional costs such as weekly rent (approx. A$200–400 depending on city), groceries (A$80–150 per week), and public transport. Queensland's capital Brisbane is generally more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne. Always check the latest fee schedule directly with the provider before applying.
Entry requirements for High School Preparation vary by provider. Generally, students must have completed schooling equivalent to the Australian year level they intend to enter. For this ELICOS course, no prior English language test score is typically required for entry, but students may be placed in different levels based on a placement test upon arrival. However, for progression to mainstream high school, an IELTS score of 5.5–7.0 overall may be needed, depending on the year level and school. Students should contact Department of Education directly for specific academic and English language requirements. Foundation studies or pathway options are not mandatory but may be available for students who need additional preparation. As with all courses, applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, placement, or work experience requirement. However, students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are automatically included with the visa. For detailed information on work conditions, refer to the Department of Home Affairs website.
High School Preparation is delivered at three state high schools in Queensland: Indooroopilly State High School (Indooroopilly, Brisbane), Mitchelton State High School (Mitchelton, Brisbane), and Whites Hill State College (Camp Hill, Brisbane). Brisbane is the capital city of Queensland, home to over 2.5 million people and a large international student community. Public transport is accessible via buses and trains, with discounted fares for students. Each campus is located in established suburban areas, offering a safe and supportive learning environment. Indooroopilly and Mitchelton are well-connected to the city centre, while Camp Hill is slightly closer to the CBD. Students can choose a location based on accommodation preferences and school facilities.
International students enrolling in High School Preparation will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: proof of enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and health insurance (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. The visa also requires students to maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. For visa assistance, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. All courses listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you are protected under the ESOS Act.
Follow these three steps to apply for High School Preparation at Department of Education:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Brisbane). Compare providers like Department of Education (CRICOS 00608A) to find the best fit for your goals. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the official website (www.eqi.com.au) to review entry requirements, English test expectations, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with required documents (academic transcripts, passport copy, etc.). 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once the provider issues a CoE, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you arrange OSHC and meet all GTE and financial requirements.
Need help? Browse our detailed visa guides at HeadStart Academy.
Queensland, particularly Brisbane, offers a vibrant and multicultural environment for international students. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Queensland hosts many high-quality institutions. Brisbane is known for its subtropical climate, friendly locals, and lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Weekly rent for a room in a shared house ranges from A$180 to A$350, and a weekly grocery bill is about A$70–A$120. Public transport is efficient and affordable with student discounts. For students under 18, the state government provides additional welfare support. Consider your personal preferences for climate, city size, and lifestyle when choosing your study destination.
Ready to start your High School Preparation journey? Begin by researching CRICOS-registered providers or contact Department of Education directly at www.eqi.com.au. Use our visa guides to navigate the student visa process.
High School Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Education. 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.