PTE Preparation (CRICOS course code 096495M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Times Academy Pty Ltd over 20 weeks. This course is designed for international students who want to improve their English proficiency for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic. Delivered at campuses in Sydney and Melbourne, it provides targeted preparation to help you achieve your desired score. Times Academy Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03457J) offering quality English language programs. As a HeadStart Academy resource, we provide transparent, data-driven information sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you compare courses and make informed decisions. Please note that this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration advice.
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PTE Preparation (CRICOS 096495M) is a Non AQF Award in the field of ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), specifically under the broader field of Society and Culture (09) and Language and Literature (0915). This course focuses on developing the English language skills necessary to succeed in the PTE Academic test. Over 20 weeks, students will engage in intensive training covering all four language skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing, with a focus on test-taking strategies and academic English. As an ELICOS course, it is designed for non-native English speakers and does not lead to a formal qualification but provides a pathway to further study or work. All data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, your trusted source for verified course information.
The PTE Preparation course falls under the field of education 091501 - ELICOS, which is part of Language and Literature. Graduates typically gain the ability to communicate effectively in English in academic contexts, understand and produce complex written and spoken texts, and apply test-taking techniques specific to the PTE Academic exam. The curriculum usually covers advanced grammar, vocabulary expansion, academic writing styles, critical listening, and fluent speaking. While the exact syllabus is set by Times Academy Pty Ltd, students can expect a comprehensive program that builds confidence and competence in English. This course is ideal for those who need a PTE score for university admission, migration, or professional registration. Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers like Times Academy can legally enrol international students in Australia, ensuring you are protected under the ESOS Act.
The course duration is 20 weeks (20 weeks on the CRICOS register). It is delivered full-time in English, with no dual qualification option. This is a single qualification course (Non AQF Award). Students should expect intensive daily classes, self-study sessions, and periodic mock tests. The language of instruction is English, and the course is not offered online; it is classroom-based at the provider's campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the CRICOS register for the most up-to-date duration and study mode details, as providers may update their course offerings.
The indicative tuition fee for PTE Preparation at Times Academy Pty Ltd is A$16,000, with non-tuition fees of A$400, totalling an estimated A$16,400. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the Visa Application Charge. As a guide, international students in Sydney typically spend A$500–A$700 per week on rent, groceries, and transport, while in Melbourne it is around A$450–A$650 per week. For current fee information, always confirm directly with Times Academy Pty Ltd via their official website. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees; we are a free resource for students.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For PTE Preparation, Times Academy Pty Ltd may require an IELTS score of around 5.5 or equivalent, or a placement test. Prior qualifications expected for this level: typically completion of secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. Foundation or pathway options: refer to the provider for details, as some students may proceed to higher-level ELICOS or vocational courses. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. We recommend checking the provider's website or contacting their admissions office for precise entry criteria. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; always consult the institution.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (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 experience is not part of the curriculum, but students may seek part-time employment to support their living costs. If you plan to work while studying, ensure you comply with your visa work limitations. The ESOS Act ensures your rights as an international student, including access to support services.
PTE Preparation is delivered at two locations: Level 4, 338 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW, and Times Academy (Sussex Street), Melbourne, VIC. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 250,000 international students and more than 300 CRICOS-registered providers. Melbourne, Australia's cultural capital, hosts around 200,000 international students and 280+ registered providers. Both campuses are centrally located near public transport, shops, and accommodation. Studying in a major city offers diverse cultural experiences and networking opportunities. For location-specific advice, see our NSW and Victoria study guides.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Times Academy, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the course duration, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year as of April 2026), and travel. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Visa processing times vary; apply early. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register to verify that Times Academy (CRICOS 03457J) is registered to deliver this course. HeadStart Academy provides free search tools to compare courses across providers. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, academic documents), gather your documents, and submit an application through Times Academy's admissions portal. Note application deadlines and any prerequisites. 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 online through the Department of Home Affairs, attaching OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to start your PTE journey? Compare CRICOS-registered PTE preparation courses on HeadStart Academy today.
PTE Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at Times Academy 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.