IELTS Preparation (CRICOS course code 105279G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by OPERA EDUCATION GROUP PTY LTD over 36 weeks (~8 months). This course equips international students with the English language skills needed to succeed in the IELTS exam, a key requirement for university entry and migration. Located in the heart of Sydney at Level 1, 303 Pitt Street, the program focuses on developing listening, reading, writing, and speaking abilities within an academic context. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03900F), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Whether you aim to study at an Australian university or seek permanent residency, this structured program provides the targeted preparation you need. HeadStart Academy brings you this information directly from the official CRICOS register — ensuring you have reliable data to make informed decisions about your study in Australia.
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IELTS Preparation (CRICOS course code 105279G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by OPERA EDUCATION GROUP PTY LTD over 36 weeks (~8 months). The course falls under Field of Education 091501 (ELICOS), part of Society and Culture – Language and Literature. It is designed for international students aiming to improve their English proficiency to achieve a target IELTS band score. The course is delivered in English and does not include a work component. It is a single qualification (not a dual qualification or foundation studies) with no VET national code. Students will develop skills in test-taking strategies, time management, and academic English across all four IELTS modules. The indicative tuition fee is A$10,500 with no non-tuition fees, totalling A$10,500. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application fees are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with OPERA EDUCATION GROUP PTY LTD via their website www.operacollege.com.au.
As an ELICOS course in Language and Literature, IELTS Preparation focuses on advanced English language skills necessary for the IELTS Academic and General Training tests. Students typically engage in intensive practice of reading comprehension, academic writing tasks, listening for specific information, and structured speaking exercises. The curriculum is aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels, targeting B1 to C1 proficiency. Graduates of this level can expect to understand complex texts, produce well-structured essays, and communicate fluently in academic and professional settings. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the core aim is to build confidence and competence for high-stakes testing. This course does not include a work component; it is purely academic preparation.
The course duration is 36 weeks (approximately 8 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study is full-time in English, delivered face-to-face at the Sydney campus. It is a single qualification — not part of a dual award or foundation program. Classes are held at Level 1, 303 Pitt Street, SYDNEY NSW 2000. Students are expected to attend all scheduled sessions and complete assignments outside of class. The intensive nature of the course requires a commitment of about 20–25 hours per week including self-study.
The indicative tuition fee for IELTS Preparation at OPERA EDUCATION GROUP PTY LTD is A$10,500. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, making the estimated total A$10,500. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs that are not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover; living expenses — estimated at A$2,500–$3,500 per month for accommodation, food, and transport; and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always verify current fees directly with the provider at www.operacollege.com.au.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For IELTS Preparation, a minimum IELTS score of 5.0 or equivalent is often expected, but exact requirements should be confirmed with OPERA EDUCATION GROUP PTY LTD. Prior qualifications: students should have completed secondary school equivalent to Australian Year 12. There are no foundation or pathway options included; the course is standalone. International applicants must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for the most current entry criteria.
IELTS Preparation (105279G) includes no work component. The course is solely focused on English language preparation. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks — subject to visa conditions. This work component information is separate from the course itself.
The course is delivered exclusively at Level 1, 303 Pitt Street, SYDNEY NSW 2000. This is in the heart of Sydney's central business district, close to Town Hall station and major transport links. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a vibrant international student community of over 200,000. There are more than 400 CRICOS-registered providers in NSW offering thousands of courses. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a studio apartment is around A$400–$600, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$40–$60. The campus location offers easy access to libraries, cafes, and study spaces.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this CRICOS-registered course; Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement; Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay; evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel; and English language proficiency (unless exempt). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. It is important to note that visa conditions are set by the Department of Home Affairs and may change. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent or visiting homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Sydney offers a dynamic study environment with world-class amenities, diverse culture, and extensive support services for international students. The city is home to over 200,000 international students and more than 400 CRICOS-registered providers. However, the cost of living is high — budget at least A$2,500 per month for basics. Public transport is efficient, and the Pitt Street campus is well-connected. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals. Sydney's vibrant job market and multicultural community can enhance your study experience, but it's essential to plan financially. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare providers and courses.
Ready to improve your IELTS score? Visit OPERA EDUCATION GROUP PTY LTD's website at www.operacollege.com.au for the latest course information and to start your application.
IELTS Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at OPERA EDUCATION GROUP 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.