Bridging English (CRICOS course code 111789A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by UQ College over 35 weeks (~8 months). This ELICOS program in the field of Language and Literature is designed to help international students improve their English proficiency to meet the entry requirements for further study at UQ College or other Australian institutions. Located in the vibrant St Lucia campus of the University of Queensland, Brisbane, this course offers a pathway to academic success in a supportive learning environment. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and HeadStart Academy helps you navigate these options with reliable data sourced from the official CRICOS register. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you study with confidence under the ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to improve your English for personal or professional reasons, this course provides a structured program to enhance your skills.
Bridging English falls under the field of Education: Society and Culture, specifically Language and Literature (ELICOS). As a Non AQF Award, it focuses on developing English language proficiency across listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students engage in communicative activities, academic English preparation, and cultural orientation. While the exact syllabus is determined by UQ College, graduates typically gain sufficient English skills to progress into undergraduate or postgraduate programs, or to meet the English language requirements for professional registration. This course is ideal for students who have completed secondary school and need to strengthen their English before entering mainstream academic studies.
Bridging English is delivered over 35 weeks (~8 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification — no dual qualification or foundation studies options are available. Students attend classes full-time, typically 20 hours per week, to maintain compliance with student visa conditions. The intensive nature of the program ensures rapid progress in English proficiency. All classes are on-campus at the St Lucia location, providing an immersive English-speaking environment.
Tuition fees for Bridging English are A$15,450, with non-tuition fees of A$820, giving an estimated total of A$16,270. This includes course materials and student services fees. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Living expenses in Brisbane are approximately A$500–650 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm fees with UQ College directly, as they are indicative and subject to change. For current fees, visit www.uqcollege.uq.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider. For Bridging English, applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the intended pathway. UQ College may also accept equivalent tests like TOEFL or PTE. Prior qualifications: completion of secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course; however, successful completion of Bridging English may satisfy English language entry for other UQ College programs. Refer to UQ College's website for detailed entry criteria.
This course has no work component. It does not include mandatory work placement or internship hours. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Bridging English is delivered at Level 4, Sir Llew Edwards Building, St Lucia, Queensland 4067. St Lucia is a suburb of Brisbane, home to the main campus of the University of Queensland. Brisbane has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Public transport to campus includes buses and ferries, with easy access to the city centre. Living costs in Brisbane are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive study destination. The campus offers modern facilities, libraries, and student support services.
International students studying Bridging English on a full-time basis are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study at a CRICOS-registered institution and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during holidays. Applicants must satisfy Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs requires proof of at least A$21,041 per year for living costs (indicative). For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
St Lucia offers a peaceful, riverside study environment with all the amenities of a major university. The University of Queensland campus provides libraries, sports facilities, and student clubs. Brisbane's subtropical climate means mild winters and warm summers, ideal for year-round study. The city has a growing job market, and international students can find part-time work in hospitality, retail, and administration. However, consider your preferences for campus size, city lifestyle, and proximity to your accommodation. St Lucia is well-connected by public transport to the Brisbane CBD (15 minutes by bus). If you prefer a larger city, Sydney or Melbourne may offer more diversity, but Brisbane provides a high quality of life with lower living costs. Ultimately, UQ College's Bridging English at St Lucia is a strong choice for students aiming to immerse themselves in a supportive academic community while improving their English.
Follow these three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Brisbane) on HeadStart Academy. 2) Apply directly to UQ College – meet entry requirements, submit English test scores, and adhere to application deadlines. Check UQ College's website for specific intake dates. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa application assistance, consult a registered MARA agent.
Start your journey to studying in Australia today — explore Bridging English at UQ College or browse other CRICOS-registered courses.
Bridging English is a CRICOS-registered programme at UQ College. 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.