English for Beginners (CRICOS course code 106509A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australasian College of Advanced Education Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This introductory ELICOS course is ideal for international students with little or no prior English knowledge. It falls under the broad field of Society and Culture, specifically Language and Literature. Students will develop basic English communication skills in a supportive classroom environment. The course is delivered at the provider's campus in Leichhardt, a vibrant inner-west suburb of Sydney. With indicative tuition of A$1,650 (exclusive of OSHC, living costs, and visa fees), it offers an accessible entry point into Australian English language study. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students benefit from ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. Continue reading to learn about entry requirements, student visa implications, and step-by-step application instructions.
English for Beginners (CRICOS course code 106509A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australasian College of Advanced Education Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. The provider, Australasian College of Advanced Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03925H), is a private institution registered with the Australian Government. This course is classified under Field of Education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). It is designed for students who have minimal or no English proficiency. The course does not lead to a formal qualification but serves as a foundation for further study. The delivery location is in Leichhardt, NSW, offering easy access to Sydney's public transport and amenities. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian quality standards for international education. HeadStart Academy encourages students to verify the provider's registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au. This overview provides key details to help you determine if this course aligns with your goals.
This course focuses on developing basic English listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. As an ELICOS program, it follows general English curriculum guidelines to enable beginners to communicate in everyday situations. Typical topics include greetings, personal information, directions, shopping, and simple descriptions. The course may also introduce basic grammar and vocabulary. Students participate in interactive classes to build confidence. Since the course is a Non AQF Award, it does not equate to a specific Australian Qualification Framework level but is recognized as a preparatory study option. For a detailed syllabus, students should contact Australasian College of Advanced Education Pty Ltd directly. ELICOS courses are common among international students from non-English speaking backgrounds seeking to improve their English before entering mainstream education. Graduates often progress to further vocational or higher education programs.
The course is scheduled for 12 weeks (as recorded on the CRICOS register). It is taught in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. This is a single qualification course. The institution will determine the exact weekly schedule, but full-time attendance is expected to meet student visa conditions. International students on Subclass 500 visas must maintain full-time enrollment. The course is not offered online; it is delivered face-to-face at the Leichhardt campus. Students should be prepared to attend classes regularly. The 12-week duration is typical for introductory ELICOS programs. After completion, students may choose to enroll in higher-level English courses or pursue other academic pathways. The VET national code is N/A as this is not a VET course.
The indicative tuition fee for English for Beginners is A$1,650, with non-tuition fees of A$0, making the estimated total A$1,650. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge for Subclass 500. International students should budget for additional costs such as accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance. Leichhardt, as part of Sydney, has an indicative weekly rent of A$250–$400, weekly groceries A$60–$100, and public transport monthly pass A$130–$160. Always confirm current fees directly with Australasian College of Advanced Education Pty Ltd by visiting their website. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not receive commissions from any institution.
English language requirements for this course vary by provider. Since this is a beginner-level course, it may not require prior English proficiency. However, Australasian College of Advanced Education Pty Ltd may set specific criteria. Typically, for ELICOS courses, a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 overall is required for higher levels, but for beginners, no formal test score may be needed. Students should check with the institution directly. Additionally, students must meet the general student visa requirements, including genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria and financial capacity. No prior qualifications are expected for a Non AQF Award course. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this standalone ELICOS program. Refer to the provider for their exact entry conditions, including any placement tests.
This course does not include any mandatory work component. It is purely academic in nature. However, international students on a Subclass 500 visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. This can help cover living expenses. While the course itself has no work requirement, students may choose to seek part-time employment to gain experience and supplement their income. It is important to balance work and study to meet visa conditions. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and should be confirmed on the Department of Home Affairs website.
English for Beginners is delivered at Units 14 & 15 Norton Street, Leichhardt, NSW. Leichhardt is a vibrant inner-west suburb of Sydney, approximately 5 kilometres from the city centre. It is well-served by public transport, including buses and light rail, making it convenient for students living in Sydney. The suburb has a strong Italian heritage and offers a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Sydney has a large international student population, with over 150,000 students and numerous CRICOS-registered providers. Indicative living costs in Sydney are higher than other Australian cities, with weekly rent averaging $250–$450 for shared accommodation. Leichhardt also has proximity to universities and libraries. The campus itself is easily accessible from major transport hubs.
Leichhardt offers a unique blend of urban convenience and community feel. As part of Sydney's inner west, it is popular among students for its affordable housing compared to the city centre. The suburb has excellent transport links via buses and light rail to major universities and the CBD. Students can enjoy parks, markets, and cultural events. The cost of living in Sydney is higher than the national average, but Leichhardt provides a more budget-friendly option. With many cafes and shops, it's easy to find part-time work. The area also has a supportive international student community. Studying here means access to Sydney's beaches, nightlife, and cultural attractions. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offer more than 26,000 courses across Australia, and Leichhardt is part of this rich educational landscape.
International students enrolling in English for Beginners must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include proof of enrollment via a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year), and OSHC. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. As this is a 12-week course, the visa duration may cover the course length plus a period before and after. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalized advice. Never guarantee visa outcomes.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to find courses like English for Beginners. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Leichhardt, NSW). 2. Apply directly to the institution: Contact Australasian College of Advanced Education Pty Ltd for entry requirements, English test (if needed), and application deadlines. Submit required documents such as passport copy and academic records. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have the CoE, lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including GTE, proof of funds, and OSHC. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; always seek professional advice.
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English for Beginners is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australasian College of Advanced Education 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.