PTE Academic Exam Preparation Course

Course Overview

The PTE Academic Exam Preparation Course (CRICOS course code 096129M) is a Non AQF Award level program, meaning it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) qualification but is designed for a specific purpose—in this case, preparing students for the PTE Academic exam. The course falls under the broader field of Society and Culture, specifically Language and Literature (091501 ELICOS). ELICOS stands for English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students, and this course is tailored for students whose first language is not English and who aim to improve their English proficiency for academic or professional purposes. The course is delivered by South Australian College of English Pty Ltd, a private institution established in 1988 with years of experience in English language teaching. Students can choose to study at the Adelaide campus located at Tower 4, Level 5, World Trade Centre, 18-38 Siddeley Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3005 (Melbourne) or at the Adelaide campus in South Australia. Adelaide is home to over 50,000 international students and offers a more affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent averaging around $300-$450 for a single bedroom. Melbourne, on the other hand, has over 200,000 international students and a vibrant multicultural environment, with rent typically $400-$600 per week. Both cities have excellent public transport networks connecting to the campuses.

What You'll Study

As an ELICOS course at Non AQF Award level, the PTE Academic Exam Preparation Course is designed to develop your English language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with a focus on the formats and question types found in the PTE Academic test. Students will typically engage in intensive practice of test tasks such as summarising written text, essay writing, multiple-choice questions, and oral fluency exercises. While the exact syllabus is set by South Australian College of English Pty Ltd, courses at this level aim to build vocabulary, grammar accuracy, and test-taking confidence. Graduates of ELICOS programs often go on to pursue further studies in vocational or higher education courses that require a minimum English proficiency score, such as IELTS 5.5–7.0. This course is ideal for students who plan to apply for university or college programs in Australia and need to demonstrate their English ability through the PTE Academic exam. It also serves students seeking skilled migration or professional registration where PTE scores are accepted.

Duration and Study Mode

According to the CRICOS register, the PTE Academic Exam Preparation Course has a duration of 26 weeks (approximately 6 months). This is a full-time course delivered in English. It is a single qualification, meaning there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes regularly and participate in all learning activities. The course is likely offered on a full-time basis to meet student visa requirements, which typically require a minimum of 20 scheduled contact hours per week for ELICOS courses. The language of instruction is English, and no prior knowledge of other languages is required. As this is a standalone preparation course, it does not articulate directly into higher-level programs, but successfully completing it can help students meet English entry requirements for other courses. Always check with the provider for the exact timetable and study mode options.

Fees (Indicative)

The indicative tuition fee for the PTE Academic Exam Preparation Course is A$10,128, with non-tuition fees of A$0, making the estimated total cost A$10,128. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by South Australian College of English Pty Ltd. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC for a single student for the 26-week duration is approximately A$300–$500, depending on the provider. Living costs in Adelaide or Melbourne can vary significantly; as a guide, the Australian Department of Home Affairs recommends a budget of at least A$21,041 per year for living expenses (excluding tuition). For a 6-month stay, this equates to roughly A$10,500. Weekly costs may include rent ($300–$600), groceries ($80–$150), and public transport ($30–$50). Always confirm current fees and additional costs directly with South Australian College of English Pty Ltd before applying. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only and does not guarantee fee accuracy.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Entry requirements for the PTE Academic Exam Preparation Course vary by provider, but typically for ELICOS courses at this level, students need to demonstrate English proficiency of around IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may accept a lower score for beginner levels, but this course is specifically for exam preparation, so a minimum intermediate level is common. Prior qualifications: Students should have completed secondary schooling or equivalent in their home country. There are no formal academic prerequisites beyond English ability. If you do not meet the English requirement, you may be offered a longer pathway ELICOS program. For Australian student visa purposes, you may need to show evidence of English proficiency depending on your nationality, but the course itself sets its own requirements. Contact South Australian College of English Pty Ltd for specific entry criteria. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. According to the CRICOS register, there is no work component attached to the PTE Academic Exam Preparation Course. This means all course hours are dedicated to classroom study and self-directed learning. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) have work rights: they can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Any work undertaken must not interfere with course attendance and progress. It is important to note that while on a student visa, you are primarily in Australia to study, and work is a secondary activity.

Delivery Locations

The PTE Academic Exam Preparation Course is delivered at two campuses: 1) South Australian College of English Pty Ltd's Adelaide campus, located in South Australia (address: not specified on CRICOS but likely in the Adelaide CBD); and 2) Melbourne campus at Tower 4, Level 5, World Trade Centre, 18-38 Siddeley Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3005. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, with a population of about 1.3 million and a growing international student community of over 50,000. It is known for its affordable cost of living and high-quality education. Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, is Australia's second-largest city with over 5 million people and more than 200,000 international students. The Melbourne campus is centrally located near Southern Cross Station, making it accessible by train, tram, and bus. Both campuses offer a supportive learning environment with modern facilities. When choosing a location, consider factors such as climate, lifestyle, and access to part-time work opportunities.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and includes the following conditions: You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course (like this one), maintain OSHC for the duration of your stay, and meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. The GTE is a character assessment that ensures you intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes. You also need to demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs, and OSHC. As mentioned, work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. Visa processing times vary, but it is recommended to apply at least 8 weeks before your course start date. For detailed visa information, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide visa advice.

Is Adelaide or Melbourne Right for You?

Choosing between Adelaide and Melbourne depends on your preferences. Adelaide offers a more relaxed lifestyle, lower cost of living (monthly rent approximately $1,200–$1,800 for a single bedroom, compared to Melbourne's $1,600–$2,600), and a tight-knit student community. It is also known for its festivals and proximity to beaches and wine regions. Melbourne is larger, more cosmopolitan, and has extensive dining, arts, and nightlife options. Public transport is excellent with free tram zones in the city. However, living expenses are higher. Both cities have strong public schools and universities, and both are well-connected to airports for travel. When choosing, consider your budget, climate preference (Adelaide is hotter and drier; Melbourne has variable weather), and part-time job opportunities. Adelaide may have fewer jobs, but the job market is competitive in both cities. HeadStart Academy does not endorse any specific location; we provide information to help you decide.

Ready to start your PTE preparation journey? Research South Australian College of English Pty Ltd on the CRICOS register and apply directly today.

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