Cambridge Advanced Exam Preparation (CRICOS course code 092405F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Macquarie Education Group Australia Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This ELICOS course is designed for international students aiming to sit the Cambridge English Advanced exam, a globally recognised qualification for work or study. As a CRICOS-registered provider (02657J), Macquarie Education Group ensures the course meets Australian standards for international students. Located in Sydney, NSW, this intensive program focuses on advanced language skills and exam strategies. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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This course falls under the field of education 091501 – ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) within the broader category of Society and Culture. Students develop advanced reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills tailored to the Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) exam. The curriculum covers complex grammar, vocabulary, academic writing, and critical analysis, preparing you for university-level English or professional environments. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, typical learning outcomes include achieving a C1 or C2 proficiency level. This Non AQF Award does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but is widely accepted by employers and institutions globally.
The course runs for 12 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English only, and it is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study components. Students attend classes at the MEGA Education campus in Sydney, NSW. Full-time attendance is typical for ELICOS courses, and students should expect approximately 20–25 hours of classroom study per week, plus self-study.
The indicative tuition fee for Cambridge Advanced Exam Preparation is A$4,200, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, bringing the estimated total to A$4,200. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (approximately A$500–$700 per week for rent, food, and transport in Sydney), and the visa application charge. Always confirm current fees directly with Macquarie Education Group Australia Pty Ltd at www.mega.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider but typically for a Cambridge Advanced exam preparation course, a minimum IELTS score of 5.5–7.0 overall is expected, or equivalent. Prior qualifications: students should have completed upper-intermediate English or equivalent. This course is non-VET and non-higher education, so foundation or pathway options are not standard; however, Macquarie Education Group may offer preliminary English courses. For exact entry criteria, contact the provider directly.
No work component: this course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
This course is delivered at MEGA Education — SYDNEY, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains and buses. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$350–$500, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$40–$60. The city is home to over 200,000 international students, offering a vibrant multicultural environment.
To study this course, international students generally need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during recognised breaks. Course progress and attendance must be maintained to comply with visa conditions. HeadStart Academy advises consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Cambridge Advanced Exam Preparation at Macquarie Education Group Australia Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify that Macquarie Education Group (CRICOS 02657J) is registered for this course. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English language test scores, prior qualifications) and application deadlines. Submit your application through Macquarie Education Group's website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application, ensuring you have OSHC and meet financial requirements.
Sydney offers a dynamic English-speaking environment with diverse cultural experiences. For ELICOS students, the city provides ample opportunities to practise English outside the classroom. However, consider the higher cost of living compared to other Australian cities. Sydney has excellent public transport, but commuting times can be long. If you prefer a smaller, more affordable city, explore options in Melbourne, Brisbane, or Adelaide. HeadStart Academy's course search can help you compare ELICOS courses across Australia.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more ELICOS courses on HeadStart Academy or visit Macquarie Education Group's website to apply.
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Cambridge Advanced Exam Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie Education Group Australia 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.