English for Academic Purposes 1 (CRICOS course code 098555K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Signet Institute of Australia over 14 weeks. This ELICOS course (field of education 091501) is designed to equip international students with the English language skills needed for academic study in Australia. The course is delivered at three locations: 341 Queen Street Melbourne in Victoria, KFI - Adelaide in South Australia, and KFI - Sydney in New South Wales. Indicative fees are A$4,600 for tuition with no additional non-tuition fees, bringing the estimated total to A$4,600. However, students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you access current and accurate information. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia offers diverse study options for international students.
English for Academic Purposes 1 (CRICOS course code 098555K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Signet Institute of Australia over 14 weeks. This course falls under the field of Education 091501 – ELICOS, which is part of the broader Society and Culture group. As an English for Academic Purposes program, it focuses on developing the language skills necessary for students to succeed in an Australian academic environment. The course is specifically designed for students who may be preparing for further study at a tertiary level, such as a diploma or degree program. While it is a Non AQF Award, it provides foundational language training that is highly valued by many institutions. Signet Institute of Australia (CRICOS 03377J) is a private provider with multiple campuses, ensuring flexibility for students across different states.
This course is part of the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) category. While specific syllabi vary by provider, students at this level typically focus on academic reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The course aims to improve students' ability to understand lectures, participate in discussions, write essays and reports, and read academic texts. Additionally, students develop critical thinking and research skills essential for academic success. The language of instruction is English, and the course is designed to be intensive, with a duration of 14 weeks. Graduates may progress to further ELICOS levels or move directly into vocational or higher education courses, provided they meet additional entry requirements. Note that this course is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a work component.
The official duration of English for Academic Purposes 1 is 14 weeks (14 weeks on the CRICOS register). The course is delivered in English, the language of instruction. It is a single qualification, meaning it does not combine with another course. Study mode is typically full-time, face-to-face attendance at the provider's campuses. As an ELICOS course, it is designed to be immersive and rapid, helping students achieve language proficiency in a relatively short period. Students should be prepared for a substantial weekly study load, including both in-class and independent study. The course duration is fixed, but some providers may offer flexible scheduling options. Always confirm the exact study mode and timetable directly with Signet Institute of Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for English for Academic Purposes 1 is A$4,600, with non-tuition fees of A$0, giving an estimated total of A$4,600. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change by the institution. This amount does not include other significant costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fees, students should visit the Signet Institute of Australia website at www.acfe.edu.au. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa and typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year depending on the provider. Living costs vary by city; in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney, weekly rent can range from A$200 to A$500, with groceries and transport adding extra. Use the cost-of-living calculator on the Department of Home Affairs website for a personalized estimate.
Entry requirements for English for Academic Purposes 1 vary by provider. Typically, for ELICOS courses at this level, students are expected to have a basic proficiency in English, often demonstrated through an IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level. Some providers may accept other English tests like TOEFL or PTE Academic. Additionally, students must have completed prior qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 11 or 12, or equivalent work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements—contact Signet Institute for details. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and have sufficient financial capacity. Always confirm specific entry requirements directly with the provider before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to complete any work placement, internship, or practical training as part of English for Academic Purposes 1. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work part-time: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and students must ensure they do not compromise their study commitments. For more details on work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
English for Academic Purposes 1 is delivered at three locations: 341 Queen Street Melbourne in Victoria, KFI - Adelaide in South Australia, and KFI - Sydney in New South Wales. Melbourne is Victoria's capital, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers. The 341 Queen Street campus is well-connected by public transport, including trams and trains. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, has a growing international student community of about 40,000 and is known for its affordable living costs—weekly rent averages A$250–A$350. The KFI - Adelaide campus offers easy access to the city's tram network. Sydney, Australia's largest city, hosts over 250,000 international students and numerous providers. The KFI - Sydney campus in Forest Lodge is near public transport and the University of Sydney. Each location provides a unique study experience, so consider your preferences for city size, climate, and cost of living when choosing.
International students enrolling in English for Academic Purposes 1 will need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. This visa allows full-time study and part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). Key requirements include: being enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (such as this one), meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, having adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The course's CRICOS registration (098555K) confirms it meets Australian government standards for international students. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but does not offer migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalized assistance. Remember that ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring your rights as a student in Australia.
With three delivery locations—Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney—you can choose the city that best fits your lifestyle and budget. Melbourne is a vibrant cultural hub with a large student population, excellent public transport, and a higher cost of living (weekly rent A$300–A$500). Adelaide offers a more relaxed pace, lower costs (weekly rent A$200–A$350), and a friendly community. Sydney is Australia's most expensive city (weekly rent A$350–A$600) but boasts iconic landmarks, diverse job opportunities, and a bustling social scene. Consider factors such as climate, proximity to family or friends, and future study or work plans. All three campuses are well-located for public transport and access to amenities. This course is ideal for students who want to improve their English in a supportive, multicultural environment before pursuing further studies.
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English for Academic Purposes 1 is a CRICOS-registered programme at Signet Institute of Australia. 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.