Primary English Preparation (CRICOS course code 107819A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Shafston International Pty Ltd over 40 weeks (~9 months). This course sits within the ELICOS field under Society and Culture, designed for students who need to build foundational English skills before progressing to further academic or vocational programs. Shafston International is a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03917H) with campuses in Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sydney. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government quality standards under the ESOS Act. The indicative tuition fee is A$20,000 with additional non-tuition fees of A$970, bringing the total to A$20,970. Students must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. Always verify current fees and details directly with the provider. HeadStart Academy provides this data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) for reference only.
Primary English Preparation falls under the field of Language and Literature (field code 091501) within the broad Society and Culture discipline. This Non AQF Award focuses on developing English proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. While the exact curriculum is set by Shafston International, typical ELICOS programs at this level aim to prepare students for academic study or everyday communication in English. Graduates often progress to further vocational or higher education courses. As a CRICOS-registered course, it undergoes quality assurance through the ESOS framework. Note that this is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study component.
The course runs for 40 weeks (~9 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is offered on a full-time basis. There is no part-time option or work placement built into the program. Students typically attend classes at one of Shafston International’s campuses. The course leads to a single qualification (not part of a package with another course). For precise timetables and study load, contact the provider directly.
The indicative tuition fee for Primary English Preparation is A$20,000. Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, or student services) are estimated at A$970, bringing the total indicative cost to A$20,970. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Fees are set by Shafston International and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the Shafston website. HeadStart Academy provides this data from the CRICOS register (April 2026) for reference only.
Entry requirements for Primary English Preparation vary by provider. Generally, for an ELICOS course at this level, students need to demonstrate a minimum English proficiency. While specific scores are set by Shafston International, typical IELTS requirements for similar courses range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall. Applicants should also have completed prior education equivalent to Australian secondary schooling. Some students may use this course as a pathway into vocational or higher education programs. Check with Shafston International for their exact entry criteria and any accepted English tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE).
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake work experience or placements as part of the curriculum. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Primary English Preparation is delivered at four campuses of Shafston International: 46 Thorn Street, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169 (Kangaroo Point, Brisbane); Gold Coast Shafston - 72 Nerang Street, Southport QLD 4215 (Southport, Gold Coast); Shafston Gold Coast (same location); and Shafston Sydney Campus - Level 24, 233 Castlereagh St Sydney NSW 2000 (Sydney CBD). Brisbane and the Gold Coast are popular study destinations with a high concentration of international students. Sydney offers a vibrant multicultural environment. Each city has different living costs; for example, weekly rent may range from A$200–$400 depending on location. Public transport is accessible to all campuses. When choosing a campus, consider your personal preferences and budget.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion – you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study; Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – mandatory health insurance for the duration of your stay; sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year as of 2026), and travel; and English proficiency if required. Once you receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Shafston International, you can lodge your visa application. For detailed advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
ELICOS courses like Primary English Preparation are designed to improve your English for further study or work. Before enrolling, consider your long-term goals: Do you plan to progress to a vocational or university course? Some ELICOS programs offer direct entry pathways. Also consider location – Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sydney each offer different lifestyles and living costs. Check the provider's CRICOS registration and course outcomes. Remember, as an international student, you are protected under the ESOS Act, which ensures quality education and tuition protection. HeadStart Academy’s data, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), shows over 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses – so take time to find the right fit.
Follow these three steps to apply for Primary English Preparation at Shafston International: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Verify that Shafston International (CRICOS 03917H) and course 107819A are current on the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check Shafston’s website for application forms, entry requirements (including English test scores), and deadlines. Submit your application with supporting documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, Shafston will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to begin your English language journey? Visit the Shafston International website for current fees and to start your application.
Primary English Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at Shafston International 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.