English for Academic Purposes (CRICOS course code 089470A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Apex Institute of Education Pty Ltd over 32 weeks (~7 months). This ELICOS program is designed to equip international students with the English language skills needed for tertiary study in Australia. The course focuses on academic reading, writing, listening, and speaking, as well as critical thinking and research skills. With delivery locations in Melbourne, Sydney, and Parramatta, students can choose a campus that suits their lifestyle. As a CRICOS-registered course (03156M), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Whether you're preparing for university or vocational training, this course provides a pathway to further study. At HeadStart Academy, we source all course data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to give you reliable, up-to-date information. Remember, all listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive quality education protected by the ESOS Act.
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This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '0915 - Language and Literature' and '091501 - ELICOS'. While the exact syllabus is set by Apex Institute, typical ELICOS programs at this level develop academic English proficiency. Students engage with authentic academic texts, practice essay writing, deliver presentations, and participate in seminars. The curriculum often includes grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural aspects of Australian academic environments. Graduates can expect to achieve an English level sufficient for entry into diploma or degree programs, subject to each institution's requirements. The course is classified as a Non AQF Award, meaning it does not contribute to the Australian Qualifications Framework but serves as a foundational step. Australia has over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses, and ELICOS programs like this one are popular among international students seeking to improve their English before mainstream study.
The course is delivered over 32 weeks (~7 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This full-time program is conducted in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The duration is typical for ELICOS courses preparing students for academic environments. Classes are held on campus at Apex Institute's locations. Students should expect a structured timetable with approximately 20 hours of contact per week, plus self-study. As a single qualification, it does not combine with other awards. The language of instruction is English, and all assessments are in English. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. This duration allows for gradual language development and adaptation to Australian teaching styles.
The indicative tuition fee for English for Academic Purposes is A$9,600 for the full 32-week program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning no compulsory additional charges are specified on the CRICOS register. However, students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge, which are not included. Living costs vary by city: in Melbourne, indicative weekly rent is A$250–400, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$40–70; in Sydney, rent is higher at A$300–500. Always confirm current fees with the provider at www.apexaustralia.edu.au, as fees are set by institutions and subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register – they serve as a guide only. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring fee transparency and ESOS protections.
Entry requirements for English for Academic Purposes vary by provider. Typically, ELICOS courses have flexible prerequisites compared to degree programs. For this course, Apex Institute may expect applicants to have completed Year 12 or equivalent in their home country. English proficiency is assessed via IELTS or equivalent; common minimums range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level. Some providers accept internal placement tests. If you don't meet the English requirement, consider a longer ELICOS pathway or foundation program. Always check directly with Apex Institute for their specific criteria. Remember, CRICOS-registered providers must assess students' genuine access to course requirements. For visa purposes, you'll need to demonstrate English proficiency as per Department of Home Affairs standards. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider for the most current entry conditions.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. All learning is classroom-based with no internship or work placement. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain casual work experience while studying. Ensure your visa allows work rights – check with the Department of Home Affairs. Even without a formal work component, you can build professional networks through part-time jobs or volunteering. Australia's student work rights are designed to support living costs and cultural immersion without compromising studies.
English for Academic Purposes is delivered at three Apex Institute campuses: - Level 7, 123 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000 – in Melbourne's CBD, surrounded by universities and cultural venues. - NSW - Apex Institute of Education (Goulburn Street, Sydney) – near Central Station, offering easy access to Sydney's transport hub. - NSW - Apex Institute of Education (Sorrell Street, Parramatta) – in Western Sydney's growing educational precinct. Melbourne and Sydney are Australia's largest student cities, each hosting hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers. Melbourne has over 30 registered providers in the city centre; Sydney has similar density. Public transport is excellent: Melbourne's trams, trains, and buses; Sydney's trains, buses, and ferries. Living costs in Parramatta are generally lower than Sydney CBD. Choosing a location depends on your preference for city lifestyle vs. suburban affordability. All campuses are CRICOS-registered for international students.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time course. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and adequate OSHC cover. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement assesses your intention to stay temporarily. You must demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, living costs (A$21,041/year for a single student), and travel. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Apex Institute is essential for the visa application. Visa processing times vary – apply early. ESOS Act protections cover you: refund policies, course change procedures, and complaints mechanisms. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA agent or homeaffairs.gov.au for advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for English for Academic Purposes at Apex Institute of Education Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (Society and Culture), and city. Verify that Apex Institute (CRICOS 03156M) meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.apexaustralia.edu.au to check entry requirements, submit your application, and provide evidence of English proficiency. Deadlines vary – allow time for processing. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Apex Institute issues a CoE. Use it to apply for a visa via ImmiAccount. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only – always confirm with the provider and Department of Home Affairs.
Consider your goals: Are you aiming for university, VET, or general English? ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) prepare students for academic environments. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses (April 2026), so you have many choices. Location matters: Melbourne and Sydney are multicultural with large student populations, but living costs are higher than in regional areas. Parramatta offers lower rent while being close to Sydney. Check provider reputation: Apex Institute is private and CRICOS-registered. Read student reviews and confirm pathway agreements if you plan to progress. Understand ESOS protections: you have rights regarding tuition refunds and course changes. Always use the official CRICOS register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au for current data. HeadStart Academy is a free, unbiased resource – we don't charge referral fees.
Below are common questions about this course.
Ready to apply? Follow our three-step guide above and start your ELICOS journey with Apex Institute of Education.
English for Academic Purposes is a CRICOS-registered programme at Apex Institute of Education 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.