Preparation Course for the Cambridge English Examinations (Pre-Intermediate to Advance) (2 to 48 weeks)

Course Overview

Preparation Course for the Cambridge English Examinations (Pre-Intermediate to Advance) (2 to 48 weeks) (CRICOS course code 096284M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd over 48 weeks (~11 months). This ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) program is designed for international students aiming to improve their English to the level required for Cambridge English Qualifications (e.g., FCE, CAE, CPE). As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian qualification but prepares students for internationally recognised Cambridge exams. The course belongs to the field of education 091501 (ELICOS) under Society and Culture. Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd is a private provider with campuses in Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, and New South Wales (Parramatta and Sydney). Studying at a CRICOS-registered provider ensures your course meets Australian standards for international students.

What You'll Study

The course focuses on developing English language skills across reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with specific emphasis on Cambridge exam techniques. Students engage with authentic materials, practice past exam papers, and receive targeted feedback to improve their performance. Typical topics include grammar and vocabulary expansion, essay writing, oral presentations, and comprehension strategies. The program is structured to progress from pre-intermediate to advanced levels, allowing students to build confidence gradually. Graduates are prepared to sit for Cambridge English exams at the appropriate level. While the course does not include work placement, it enhances employability by boosting English proficiency. ELICOS programs are popular among international students; Australia hosts over 100,000 ELICOS students annually (source: Australian Government data). Studying ELICOS also helps meet English requirements for further study at Australian universities.

Duration and Study Mode

This course is listed on the CRICOS register with a duration of 48 weeks (~11 months). However, students can enrol for shorter periods from 2 weeks onward. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification course (no dual qualification) and not a foundation studies program. The course does not have a VET national code as it is an ELICOS program. Full-time study is expected, with classes typically held on campus. Being a CRICOS-registered course, it qualifies for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The flexible duration allows students to customise their study based on their current English level and target exam. For example, a student at pre-intermediate may need the full 48 weeks, while an upper-intermediate student might only require 12 weeks.

Fees (Indicative – Set by Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd)

Based on the CRICOS register as at April 2026, indicative fees for the full 48-week program are as follows:

• Tuition: A$18,240
• Non-tuition fees: A$680
• Estimated total: A$18,920

These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Australia vary by city; for example, weekly rent may range from A$150–A$300 in shared accommodation in Adelaide to A$200–A$400 in Sydney. The Department of Home Affairs recommends a living cost of A$21,041 per year (as of 2026). Always confirm current fees with Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd, as they are subject to change. Visit their website at www.elsis.edu.au for the latest fee schedule.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Entry requirements for this course are set by Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd and may vary. Generally, international students need:

• English proficiency: Typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the course level entered. Alternatively, equivalent scores in TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English exams may be accepted.
• Prior qualifications: Completion of secondary education (Year 12 or equivalent) is often expected.
• Age: Minimum 18 years old.

Some students with lower English levels may be required to start at a pre-intermediate level and progress. The provider offers placement tests to determine the appropriate entry point. Foundation or pathway options are not explicitly offered for this course, but successful completion can help meet English requirements for further study. Contact Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd for specific entry criteria.

Work Component

No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain part-time work experience in Australia while studying. Common part-time jobs for international students include hospitality, retail, and administration. Remember that work rights are subject to visa conditions, and you must balance work with study commitments.

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered at four campuses of Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd:

1. **Brisbane**: Ground Level & Level 3, 269 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley, QLD. Fortitude Valley is a vibrant inner-city suburb with easy access to public transport, including trains and buses. Brisbane has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. 2. **Adelaide**: Level 10, 182 Victoria Square, Adelaide SA 5000. Located in the city centre, near tram and bus stops. Adelaide is known for its affordability and lower cost of living, with weekly rent averaging around A$150–A$250. 3. **Parramatta**: Level 4, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street, Parramatta, NSW. Parramatta is a major business district in Western Sydney, with trains and ferries connecting to Sydney CBD. It hosts several university campuses and a growing student population. 4. **Sydney**: Sydney Levels 1 & 2, 160-166 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW. Close to Darling Harbour and public transport. Sydney has the highest number of international students in Australia, with over 200,000 enrolled across its institutions. Living costs are higher, with weekly rent averaging A$200–A$400.

Each campus offers modern facilities and support services for international students. Public transport is accessible, and all campuses are within walking distance of shopping, dining, and accommodation options.

Student Visa Information

International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa requirements include:

• **Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)**: You must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study.
• **Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)**: Mandatory health insurance for the duration of your student visa.
• **Financial capacity**: Sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel.
• **English proficiency**: Evidence of meeting the provider's English requirements.

Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependents may also be eligible for work rights. Visa conditions vary, so always check the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Preparation Course for the Cambridge English Examinations at Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd:

1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to explore ELICOS courses like this one. Filter by course level, field, and city to find the right fit. Verify the provider's CRICOS registration and course details. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd's website (www.elsis.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (academic transcripts, passport, English test results). 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa online. Prepare for the GTE assessment, arrange OSHC, and show financial capacity. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.

What to Consider Before Choosing an ELICOS Course

ELICOS courses like this one are ideal for students who need English improvement for academic or professional purposes. Consider these factors:

• **Your current English level**: Choose a course that matches your proficiency to avoid being under- or over-placed.
• **Duration and intensity**: Longer courses (up to 48 weeks) allow gradual improvement, while shorter courses are for specific exam preparation.
• **Location**: Each city offers different lifestyles and costs. Adelaide is more affordable; Sydney has more job opportunities.
• **Provider reputation**: Education Centre of Australia Pty Ltd is a private provider with multiple campuses. Check student reviews and facilities.
• **Progression pathways**: This course can lead to further study in Australia if you meet English requirements for university or VET programs.

HeadStart Academy helps you compare over 26,000 CRICOS courses across Australia. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Use our free resources to make an informed decision.

Ready to improve your English and prepare for Cambridge exams? Explore this CRICOS-registered course on HeadStart Academy and start your application today!

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