IELTS Preparation (CRICOS course code 107979G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Ashley English Language Institute Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This course is designed for international students aiming to improve their English proficiency and prepare for the IELTS exam, a key requirement for studying or working in English-speaking countries. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03680B), Ashley English Language Institute ensures all students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. Located in the heart of Surry Hills, a vibrant Sydney suburb, the institute offers a focused learning environment with small class sizes. HeadStart Academy, your trusted resource for Australian education, provides this detailed overview to help you make an informed decision. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses across Australia, choosing the right course is crucial. Read on to explore fees, entry requirements, and visa options for this IELTS Preparation course.
IELTS Preparation (CRICOS 107979G) is classified as a Non AQF Award under the field of education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). It is offered by Ashley English Language Institute Pty Ltd, a private education provider with CRICOS registration 03680B. The course runs for 12 weeks (12 weeks as per CRICOS register), with instruction in English. It does not lead to a dual qualification nor is it a foundation studies program. There is no work component included. The indicative tuition fee is A$4,560, with non-tuition fees of A$500, totalling an estimated A$5,060. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change – always confirm with the provider. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges are not included. This course is ideal for students who need structured preparation for the IELTS test, whether for further study or migration purposes.
The IELTS Preparation course falls under ELICOS, which focuses on developing English language skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. While the specific syllabus is set by the provider, students at this level typically engage in intensive practice of IELTS-style tasks, including time management, test-taking strategies, and vocabulary building. The course aims to improve overall English proficiency to help students achieve their target band score. ELICOS courses in Australia are regulated by the National English Language Teaching Accreditation Scheme (NEAS) or similar quality frameworks. Graduates of such courses often move on to vocational or higher education programs, or use their results for visa applications. It's important to note that this course is a Non AQF Award, meaning it does not contribute to a formal Australian qualification but is focused on test preparation. Ashley English Language Institute may also offer pathways to other programs – check with the provider for details.
According to the CRICOS register, this IELTS Preparation course has a duration of 12 weeks (12 weeks). Instruction is delivered in English on a full-time basis, typically requiring around 20 hours of classroom study per week. The course is a single qualification only – no dual awards are offered. As an ELICOS program, it is designed for international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500). Study modes may include face-to-face classes at the Surry Hills campus. The 12-week timeframe allows students to gain confidence and familiarity with the IELTS test format. Shorter or longer options may be available; confirm with the provider. Australia's student visa regulations require ELICOS students to maintain full-time enrolment. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the course start dates and intake periods directly with Ashley English Language Institute.
The indicative fees for IELTS Preparation at Ashley English Language Institute Pty Ltd are as follows: tuition fee A$4,560, non-tuition fee A$500 (including administration and materials), and estimated total A$5,060. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution – they may change without notice. Always visit the provider's website for the most current fee schedule. Additional costs you should budget for include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders (approximately A$600–A$800 per year), living expenses (indicative weekly costs: rent A$300–$500, groceries A$80–$150, transport A$40–$60 in Sydney), and the Department of Home Affairs visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). The total cost of studying in Australia includes these elements, and you should demonstrate financial capacity as part of your visa application. Read more about OSHC on our dedicated page.
Entry requirements for IELTS Preparation vary by provider. For ELICOS courses at this level, a minimum English proficiency is typically expected – often an IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course intensity and target band. Some providers may accept alternative tests like TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English. Ashley English Language Institute may also require a certain level of prior education, such as completion of secondary school or equivalent. Since this is a Non AQF Award, formal academic prerequisites are usually relaxed, but the focus is on English ability. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable to this standalone course, but the provider may offer bridging programs if needed. HeadStart Academy advises checking the specific entry requirements on the provider's website before applying. Remember: meeting the English requirement is essential for Student visa eligibility – the Department of Home Affairs may require evidence of English proficiency.
This course has no work component. The CRICOS register indicates that IELTS Preparation does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (subject to visa conditions). It's important to balance work and study, as your primary purpose is to complete your course. For the latest work rights information, consult the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy reminds students that work rights are a condition of your visa, not a component of your course.
This IELTS Preparation course is delivered at Level 2, 16-22 Wentworth Ave, SURRY HILLS NSW 2010. Surry Hills is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Sydney, known for its creative culture, cafes, and close proximity to the central business district. The campus is easily accessible by public transport, including buses and train stations such as Central Station (about a 10-minute walk). Sydney is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a wide range of courses for international students. Living costs in Surry Hills are slightly above average due to its central location, with shared accommodation rents starting around A$350 per week. The suburb is popular among students and young professionals. Studying at this location gives you access to Sydney's world-class amenities, including libraries, sporting facilities, and multicultural dining options. Always check with the provider for any additional campus addresses.
Choosing to study IELTS Preparation in Surry Hills places you in the heart of Sydney's educational district. With over 200,000 international students in New South Wales, you'll join a diverse community. Surry Hills offers a blend of urban lifestyle and quiet residential streets, with many parks and recreational areas. The local transport network makes it easy to explore Sydney's beaches and attractions. When considering this location, factor in the cost of living: Sydney is one of Australia's most expensive cities, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$350–$500. Part-time work opportunities are available, especially in hospitality and retail. The city's strong economy and multicultural environment provide a supportive backdrop for language learning. HeadStart Academy recommends researching accommodation options early and using public transport to keep costs down.
To study this IELTS Preparation course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus a short period after. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Ashley English Language Institute, proof of English proficiency (unless exempt), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa period. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during holidays. You must maintain enrolment and satisfactory attendance to comply with visa conditions. Family members can join on a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) or as dependents. The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees through the Tuition Protection Service (TPS). For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for IELTS Preparation at Ashley English Language Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that Ashley English Language Institute (CRICOS 03680B) and course 107979G meet your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the Ashley English Language Institute website or contact their admissions office. Submit your application with required documents (e.g., passport, academic transcripts, English test scores). Meet entry requirements and application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Include financial evidence, OSHC, GTE statement, and other required paperwork. Await visa decision – processing times vary. HeadStart Academy is here to guide you through every step.
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IELTS Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at Ashley English Language Institute 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.