Test of English for Aviation Preparation Course (CRICOS course code 097843K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Central Queensland University over 5 weeks. This course is classified under the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) field, specifically designed to prepare students for the English language demands of aviation contexts. Australia is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and Central Queensland University is one of them. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00219C), CQU ensures that this course meets the rigorous standards of the ESOS Act, giving international students legal protections while studying in Australia. Whether you aim to improve your English for aviation careers or further study, this course provides a structured path. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) is your guide to verified CRICOS data, helping you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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Test of English for Aviation Preparation Course (CRICOS course code 097843K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Central Queensland University over 5 weeks. It falls under the field of education 091501 - ELICOS, which is part of the Society and Culture broad field. This course is specifically designed for international students who need to develop their English language proficiency for aviation-related purposes, such as meeting the English language requirements for pilot training or air traffic control programs. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to a formal qualification but provides targeted language skills. Central Queensland University (CQU) is a government provider with CRICOS code 00219C, ensuring compliance with Australian education quality standards. The course is delivered at the Cairns C.Q.U. Campus in Cairns, Queensland, a vibrant city with a growing international student community. Cairns has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a range of courses across various fields. The indicative total fee for this course is A$2,225, covering tuition only; OSHC, living costs, and visa application charges are additional. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
As an ELICOS course, this program focuses on developing English language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with a specific emphasis on aviation terminology and communication contexts. Students typically learn to comprehend and produce language used in aviation operations, such as radiotelephony, weather briefings, and safety announcements. The course also covers general English proficiency to meet the demands of everyday life and study in Australia. While the exact syllabus is set by Central Queensland University, graduates of this level are usually prepared to sit for aviation English proficiency tests required by aviation authorities. The field of Language and Literature at this level emphasises practical communication skills rather than academic theory. Given the short 5-week duration, the course is intensive and immersive, requiring active participation. For detailed syllabus information, contact CQU directly.
The course duration is 5 weeks, as recorded on the CRICOS register (5 weeks). All instruction is delivered in English, and this is a single qualification course (no dual qualification). The study mode is likely full-time, though CQU may offer flexible options. Check with the provider for class schedules and attendance requirements. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment unless an exception applies. Cairns campus provides modern facilities accessible by public transport; the city has a well-connected bus network with student concession fares available. Living costs in Cairns are lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$150–A$250, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$2,225, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$2,225. However, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (approx. A$500–A$700 per year for single cover), living expenses (the Australian Government recommends at least A$21,041 per year), or the visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm the latest fees with Central Queensland University directly on their website (www.cqu.edu.au). Fees are set by institutions and subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides this data from the CRICOS register for reference only.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Non AQF Award in ELICOS, prior qualifications may include a high school certificate or equivalent. Some providers may require a minimum age (usually 18). Foundation or pathway options are not applicable as this is a preparatory English course. Always check the specific entry requirements on Central Queensland University's website or contact their admissions team. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate English proficiency to the satisfaction of the Department of Home Affairs; the required level depends on the course and your country of origin. Note that HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
No work component is included in this course. The CRICOS register indicates 'No work component', meaning there is no mandatory work placement or internship. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) still have work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to other visa conditions. This allows you to gain part-time work experience while studying.
This course is delivered at the Cairns C.Q.U. Campus in Cairns, Queensland. Cairns is a major city in Far North Queensland, known for its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. It has a diverse student population of over 10,000 international students enrolled across various institutions. The city has excellent public transport, including buses, and a domestic airport connecting major cities. Living costs are relatively affordable compared to southern states, with cheaper housing and groceries. Cairns offers a laid-back lifestyle with abundant outdoor activities.
International students enrolling in this course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain this visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Family members may accompany you on a Student Dependent visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions are subject to change — always check the Department of Home Affairs for the latest requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide visa advice; consult a registered MARA agent.
Follow these three steps specific to Test of English for Aviation Preparation Course at Central Queensland University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to confirm CQU is registered (CRICOS 00219C). Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Cairns) to find this course. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit CQU's website (www.cqu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language proficiency (typically IELTS 5.5–7.0), and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (transcripts, English test scores, passport). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, CQU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and evidence of financial capacity. Processing times vary; apply early.
Cairns offers a unique study environment with a warm climate, outdoor lifestyle, and a multicultural community. Over 20 CRICOS-registered providers operate here, offering courses in tourism, marine science, and English language (ELICOS). The cost of living is lower than Sydney or Melbourne – indicative rent for a studio is A$200–A$350 per week, and monthly groceries around A$400. Public transport is affordable with a student go card concession. However, study options are more limited than in major cities, and the job market is smaller. Consider your priorities: if you seek a quieter, nature-focused lifestyle with lower costs, Cairns may be ideal. For more diverse courses and work opportunities, cities like Sydney or Melbourne might be better.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more ELICOS courses in Cairns on HeadStart Academy or visit Central Queensland University's website to apply.
Test of English for Aviation Preparation Course is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland 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.