English for Academic Purposes (1,2) (CRICOS course code 095482B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Southern English College Pty Ltd over 24 weeks. This ELICOS program is designed for international students who need to develop their English language skills for academic study in Australia. Located in the heart of Sydney, the course focuses on reading, writing, listening, and speaking for academic contexts, preparing students for further studies at Australian institutions. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03613B), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses nationwide, this program is a trusted pathway for students aiming to improve their academic English. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
English for Academic Purposes (1,2) is a Non AQF Award course in the field of Society and Culture (field code 091501 - ELICOS). It is delivered by Southern English College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03613B), a private provider with multiple campuses in Sydney. The course runs for 24 weeks and is taught in English. It does not lead to a dual qualification or foundation studies, and there is no mandatory work component. This program is ideal for students whose first language is not English and who plan to pursue higher education in Australia. By completing this course, students can improve their English proficiency to meet the language requirements of diploma or degree programs. All data on this page is sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and is subject to change; always verify with the provider.
As an ELICOS program, English for Academic Purposes (1,2) focuses on developing the four key language skills – listening, speaking, reading, and writing – in an academic context. Students typically engage with academic texts, practice essay writing, deliver presentations, and participate in group discussions. The curriculum is designed to build vocabulary, grammar, and critical thinking skills necessary for university-level study. While specific syllabi vary by provider, this course generally prepares students for tasks such as note-taking, researching, and understanding lectures. Graduates often achieve an English level equivalent to IELTS 5.5–7.0, depending on their starting point. For exact details on topics and assessment, refer directly to Southern English College.
The course duration on the CRICOS register is 24 weeks. It is offered as a full-time program with instruction in English. This is a single qualification with no dual award. Students should plan for a structured weekly schedule of classes, typically 20 hours per week. The 24-week timeframe allows for steady progress in language acquisition. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, attendance and academic progress are monitored to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for English for Academic Purposes (1,2) are set by Southern English College; the CRICOS register shows an indicative estimated total of A$7,200. This does not include non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, administration), which should be confirmed directly with the provider at www.sec.sabt.edu.au. Additionally, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. For international students in Sydney, indicative weekly expenses are: rent A$250–A$500, groceries A$70–A$120, and transport A$30–A$50 (guides only). Always check the provider's website for current fees before applying.
English language requirements for ELICOS programs vary by provider. For English for Academic Purposes (1,2), a typical starting level is IELTS 5.5 overall (or equivalent), though some providers may accept lower scores for beginner levels. Prior academic qualifications are generally not required for this Non AQF Award, but students must demonstrate a genuine intention to study and meet the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. Some providers offer internal English tests. For exact requirements, contact Southern English College. Foundation or pathway options are available for students who need additional preparation before entering degree programs – refer to the provider for details.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work is optional and not part of the course curriculum.
This course is delivered at three locations in Sydney, New South Wales: 95 Bathurst Street, Sydney (Sydney CBD); Sydney Campus (also in the CBD); and Thomas Street Campus in Haymarket (Chinatown area). Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 250 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student community. All campuses are accessible by public transport (trains, buses, light rail). Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, but the city offers diverse cultural experiences and excellent study facilities. Choosing a campus near your accommodation can reduce commute time and expenses.
To study English for Academic Purposes (1,2) as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Southern English College, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, and meeting the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion. Student work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. Dependents may be included on the visa. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for individual advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in English for Academic Purposes (1,2) at Southern English College Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Non AQF Award/ELICOS), field (Society and Culture), and location (Sydney). Confirm Southern English College (CRICOS 03613B) is the right fit.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements on Southern English College's website (www.sec.sabt.edu.au). You may need to provide proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS score) or sit a placement test. Submit your application with required documents (passport, academic transcripts, etc.) before the deadline.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the college will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC, show evidence of financial capacity, and prepare for the GTE assessment. After visa grant, you can travel to Australia and start your course.
Sydney is a global education hub with over 250 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. It boasts world-class universities, a multicultural environment, and extensive public transport. However, living costs are among the highest in Australia: rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages A$400–A$600 per week, while outer suburbs are cheaper. Part-time work is available, but students should budget carefully. Sydney's climate is temperate, with warm summers and mild winters. If you enjoy a fast-paced urban lifestyle with beaches and cultural attractions, Sydney could be an excellent choice for your ELICOS studies.
All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are from CRICOS-registered providers, ensuring they meet Australian government quality standards. Southern English College (CRICOS 03613B) is registered to deliver this course to international students. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refund policies and access to the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we do not charge fees or accept referral commissions. Data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, covering 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses. Always verify current CRICOS status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.
Ready to improve your academic English? Explore Southern English College on HeadStart Academy and take the first step toward your study in Australia.
English for Academic Purposes (1, 2) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern English College 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.