Gateway English Course 3 (CRICOS course code 096503E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Curtin University over 18 weeks. This ELICOS program is designed for international students to enhance their English language proficiency for academic or professional purposes. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00301J), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. The course is offered at Curtin's Bentley campus in Perth, Western Australia, a vibrant city with over 20,000 international students from around the world. With indicative tuition fees of A$9,750, this course provides a focused pathway to improve English skills. HeadStart Academy sources data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. Whether you aim to pursue further study or improve career prospects, understanding this course's details is the first step. This page covers fees, entry requirements, visa implications, and more—all tailored to help you make an informed decision.
Gateway English Course 3 is classified under Field of Education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). As a Non AQF Award, it does not align with the Australian Qualifications Framework but is a recognised pathway for language development. Curtin University, a public government-funded institution, has been delivering quality education for decades and is registered on CRICOS (00301J). The course runs for 18 weeks with full-time study, using English as the language of instruction. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The indicative tuition fee is A$9,750, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. However, students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (approximately A$500–A$700 per week in Perth), and the student visa application charge. All fees are subject to change—always confirm directly with Curtin University. This course is ideal for international students seeking to improve their English in a supportive university environment, with access to modern facilities and student services.
As an ELICOS course, Gateway English Course 3 focuses on developing intermediate to advanced English skills across four macro-skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The curriculum typically integrates academic English preparation, including essay writing, note-taking, oral presentations, and critical analysis of texts. Students also engage in cultural orientation and language for everyday contexts. While specific syllabi are set by Curtin University, ELICOS programs at this level aim to build confidence for university entry or professional environments. The field of Language and Literature (0915) emphasises communication and linguistic competence. Graduates often progress to vocational or higher education courses in Australia. With a duration of 18 weeks, the course provides intensive exposure, with approximately 20–25 contact hours per week. Small class sizes encourage interactive learning, and assessments include continuous tests, assignments, and a final examination. This structure helps students meet English entry requirements for subsequent studies or gain a competitive edge in the job market.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 18 weeks (18 weeks on the register). This is a full-time, on-campus course delivered face-to-face at Curtin University's Bentley campus. The language of instruction is exclusively English, and the course is a single qualification—no dual or integrated awards are offered. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The 18-week period includes scheduled breaks, typically aligning with university semesters. During breaks, students can work unlimited hours (subject to visa conditions), offering an opportunity to gain local experience or offset living costs. Attendance is monitored, and students must achieve satisfactory progress to maintain visa compliance. For those requiring a longer pathway, Curtin offers other ELICOS levels; Gateway English Course 3 may serve as a bridge to more advanced programs. Always check the provider's website for exact term dates and study schedules.
Indicative tuition for Gateway English Course 3 is A$9,750, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. This brings the estimated total to A$9,750. However, this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Perth are estimated at A$500–A$700 per week, covering rent (A$200–A$400), groceries (A$100–A$150), transport (A$30–A$60), and utilities. The student visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (as of 2026, subject to change). These additional costs can total A$15,000–A$20,000 for the 18-week period. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends visiting Curtin University's official website for the most current fee schedule, as institutions may adjust prices annually. Australia's ESOS Act ensures fee protection, meaning students are entitled to a refund if the provider ceases to deliver the course. Always budget conservatively and research scholarship opportunities.
Entry requirements for Gateway English Course 3 are set by Curtin University and may vary. Typically, ELICOS courses do not require a minimum IELTS score for beginner levels, but for intermediate or upper-intermediate courses like this one, providers often ask for IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall. Some institutions also accept alternative tests like TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Additionally, students must have completed Year 11 or equivalent (Australian high school level) to demonstrate foundational academic skills. Curtin may also require a placement test to determine the appropriate course level. No foundation studies or prior vocational qualifications are needed. For students who do not meet English requirements, Curtin may offer a longer ELICOS pathway. International students should also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa. Always check Curtin's admission page for detailed criteria and application deadlines. HeadStart Academy provides this as general guidance; individual circumstances may differ.
Gateway English Course 3 has no mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This allows students to gain local work experience and supplement living expenses, provided it does not interfere with their studies. Work rights are conditional on maintaining enrolment and satisfactory course progress. Jobs commonly held by international students in Perth include retail, hospitality, and tutoring. Additionally, OSHC (medical insurance) must be maintained throughout the visa stay. HeadStart Academy advises students to check visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website and ensures they do not exceed work limits. The ESOS Act protects students' rights, including access to underpayment remedies and workplace safety. While this course does not include internships, students may seek volunteering or part-time roles independently.
Gateway English Course 3 is delivered at Curtin University of Technology — Bentley, Western Australia. Bentley is a suburb approximately 6 kilometres southeast of Perth's central business district (CBD). The campus is easily accessible by public transport, including the Canning Line train and multiple bus routes. Perth's international student community is thriving, with over 20,000 students from diverse countries. The city has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, making it a vibrant study destination. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$200–A$300. Groceries and transport add another A$150–A$200 per week. The campus itself features modern libraries, language labs, and student support services. Curtin is a leading Australian university, known for its strong industry connections and multicultural environment. Prospective students can explore the campus virtually or plan a visit through Curtin's international office.
International students enrolling in Gateway English Course 3 will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa prerequisites include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Curtin University; genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement; sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel); and health insurance (OSHC) for the duration of stay. The current visa application charge (as of 2026) is A$1,600, with additional charges for dependents. Student work rights are as described: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. Accompanying family members may also work (subject to conditions). Visa duration is typically aligned with the course length (18 weeks) plus a period for travel or preparation. It is crucial to maintain enrolment and meet attendance requirements, as failure can lead to visa cancellation. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice but includes this information for reference. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, are subject to ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality and consumer rights.
Applying for Gateway English Course 3 involves three key steps. Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers using HeadStart Academy's comprehensive database. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Western Australia) to find suitable options—Curtin University (CRICOS 00301J) is one of many reputable providers. Step 2: Apply directly to Curtin University. Visit their official website (www.curtin.edu.au) to access the online application portal. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (if applicable), passport copy, and a statement of purpose. Check application deadlines and entry requirements carefully. Step 3: Upon acceptance, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Curtin. Use this CoE to lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Pay the visa fee, arrange OSHC, and provide necessary evidence (financial, GTE). Once the visa is granted, you can make travel arrangements and begin your study journey in Australia. HeadStart Academy is here to support your research with accurate, up-to-date information.
Explore more courses at Curtin University or use HeadStart Academy to find the perfect study pathway for your goals.
Gateway English Course 3 is a CRICOS-registered programme at Curtin University. 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.