English for Academic Purposes (EAP) (CRICOS course code 104575G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~76 weeks). This ELICOS program helps international students build academic English skills for further study in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 03349B), it is protected under the ESOS Act. The course is offered at two sites: Sydney CBD and Mangrove Creek on the Central Coast. Indicative tuition is A$24,000 with A$500 non-tuition fees, totalling A$24,500. HeadStart Academy sources data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS providers offering more than 26,000 courses. This course falls under field 091501 (ELICOS).
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English for Academic Purposes (EAP) (CRICOS 104575G) is a Non AQF Award in the field of Language and Literature (ELICOS). It is designed for students who need to meet English language requirements for tertiary study or improve their academic communication. The course is offered by STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (03349B) since 2016. With a duration of 76 weeks, it provides intensive language training focusing on reading, writing, listening, speaking, and academic skills. Graduates typically achieve a level equivalent to IELTS 5.5–7.0, enabling progression to diploma, bachelor, or postgraduate programs. All CRICOS-registered courses guarantee quality standards and student protections under Australian law.
As an ELICOS program, EAP develops English proficiency for academic contexts. Students engage with authentic academic materials, practice essay writing, deliver presentations, and improve critical thinking. The curriculum covers grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, with an emphasis on academic discourse. Graduates gain confidence to participate in lectures, tutorials, and assessments. This Non AQF Award does not lead to a formal qualification but serves as a pathway to further study. Providers design their own syllabus, but all ELICOS courses must meet national standards. The field of education (091501) includes English language courses for overseas students. Sydney and Mangrove Creek offer diverse learning environments.
The course runs for 1 year 6 months (~76 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Study mode instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and not a foundation studies program. The 76-week duration allows for deep language immersion. Class schedules vary by campus; students should confirm with STEPS Sunshine Coast International College. Full-time study is expected to maintain visa compliance. The course is designed for international students and does not include a work component.
Tuition is A$24,000, non-tuition fees A$500, estimated total A$24,500. These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$2,000–A$3,000 per month in Sydney), visa application fee (A$1,600 as of 2025), and travel. Always confirm fees directly with STEPS Sunshine Coast International College via their website (www.scic.nsw.edu.au). HeadStart Academy advises budgeting carefully for the full duration.
Entry requirements vary by provider. Typically, students need English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0–5.5 for entry into EAP, but higher levels may be required. Prior qualifications: completion of secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers accept completion of a recognized English course. Foundation/pathway options: students who do not meet direct entry may take general English first. Check with STEPS Sunshine Coast International College for specific requirements. English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) are commonly accepted. Always refer to the provider for current criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. Students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work is not a required part of the course but can supplement living costs.
The course is delivered at two locations: Level 3, 233 Castlereagh Street, Sydney 2000 (Sydney CBD) and SCIC Central Coast Campus - 300 Mangrove Creek Rd, Mangrove Creek NSW 2250. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200,000 international students and excellent public transport. Mangrove Creek is a rural area on the Central Coast, offering a quieter study environment. Both campuses are CRICOS-registered delivery sites. Sydney's living costs are higher (approx. A$500–A$700/week for rent) while Mangrove Creek may be lower. The Central Coast has growing student facilities.
International students need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This course qualifies as a full-time registered course, meeting visa requirements. Key conditions: maintain enrolment, satisfactory attendance, OSHC cover, and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. Work rights: 48 hours/fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. OSHC costs approx. A$500–A$700/year for single cover. Financial capacity must cover fees, living costs, and travel. Graduates may use EAP as evidence of English proficiency for further visas. Always consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for English for Academic Purposes (EAP) at STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Sydney or Mangrove Creek). Compare providers and check CRICOS status. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: contact STEPS Sunshine Coast International College to confirm entry requirements, submit English test scores (if applicable), and meet application deadlines. Complete the application form and provide required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use it to apply for a visa online through ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements.
Sydney hosts over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering ELICOS courses, making it a competitive market. The city offers diverse cultural experiences but comes with high living costs (approx. A$2,500/month for a single person). Public transport is extensive but expensive. Mangrove Creek, on the Central Coast, provides a more affordable and nature-focused setting, though fewer student services. Consider your budget, preferred study environment, and proximity to support networks. Both locations are within NSW, which has strong ESOS protections.
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English for Academic Purposes (EAP) is a CRICOS-registered programme at STEPS Sunshine Coast International College 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.