Intensive Academic Preparation (CRICOS course code 112463D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd over 13 weeks. This course is designed to equip international students with the academic English skills needed to succeed in tertiary study in Australia. Located at Hawthorn English's Melbourne campus on Exhibition Street, the program focuses on developing reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities within an academic context. As an ELICOS program under the field of Society and Culture (091501 Language and Literature), it prepares students for further study at diploma, undergraduate, or postgraduate levels. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available, Intensive Academic Preparation stands out as a targeted pathway for students aiming to meet English proficiency requirements for Australian institutions. This page provides comprehensive information on fees, entry requirements, location, and student visa implications to help you make an informed decision.
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Intensive Academic Preparation (CRICOS course code 112463D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02931G), a private English language provider with a dedicated campus in Melbourne's central business district. The course runs for 13 weeks, with tuition in English only, and does not lead to a dual qualification. It is classified under field 091501 (ELICOS) within the broader Society and Culture field. This level is ideal for students who need to improve their academic English before entering a mainstream qualification. Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd is a CRICOS-registered institution, meaning it meets Australian Government standards for teaching overseas students. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including tuition fee protection and access to complaint handling.
As an ELICOS course, Intensive Academic Preparation covers core language skills essential for academic success. Students typically engage in intensive reading of academic texts, essay and report writing, listening to lectures, and participating in tutorials and presentations. The curriculum aligns with the Australian ELICOS standards and helps students reach a level comparable to IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on their starting point. While the exact syllabus is set by Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd, graduates can expect to develop critical thinking, research skills, and confidence in using English for study purposes. This course is not a pathway to a specific qualification but serves as preparation for further study at the same or other CRICOS-registered institutions.
The course duration is 13 weeks (13 weeks on the CRICOS register). It is a full-time program delivered in English with no work component. The language of instruction is English only, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. This single qualification allows students to focus entirely on language development before progressing to a degree or vocational course. Classes are held at the provider's premises in Melbourne, with face-to-face delivery. Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd may also offer online or blended options – please check their website for current modes of delivery.
The indicative fees for Intensive Academic Preparation, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, are as follows: Tuition fee A$5,250, non-tuition fee A$435, and an estimated total of A$5,685. This total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$20,000–A$30,000 per year for rent, food, and transport. OSHC costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for singles. Always confirm current fees directly with Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd at www.hawthornenglish.com as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides these figures as a guide only.
Entry requirements for Intensive Academic Preparation vary by provider and course level. For this course, English language requirements typically fall in the range of IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall or equivalent, depending on the target proficiency. Students should also have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 10 or 11. Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd may conduct its own placement test to determine the appropriate starting level. Prior qualifications expected for a Non AQF Award include general academic readiness. The course does not include foundation or pathway options; it is a standalone ELICOS program. Refer to the provider's website for specific entry criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. International students should check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest work rights.
The course is delivered at Level 1 & 2, 333 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, in the heart of Melbourne's CBD. Melbourne is Victoria's capital city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering ELICOS programs. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trams and trains at Flinders Street and Melbourne Central stations. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to other Australian capitals, with weekly rent averaging $250–$400 for a shared apartment. The city is known for its multicultural environment, excellent food scene, and high-quality education institutions.
To study Intensive Academic Preparation, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time and work part-time as mentioned. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, provide evidence of English proficiency (if required), and have sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel. You must also enroll in a CRICOS-registered course – 112463D qualifies. The ESOS Act ensures your tuition is protected. After receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd, you can apply for the visa. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for Intensive Academic Preparation at Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Melbourne). Confirm that Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02931G) offers course 112463D. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications) and application deadlines on Hawthorn Learning's website. Submit your application along with supporting documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, Hawthorn Learning will issue a CoE. Use it to apply for a student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, offering a vibrant arts scene, diverse food culture, and excellent public transport. With over 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering ELICOS, you'll find a supportive learning environment. The city's student population enriches campus life, and part-time work opportunities are plentiful in hospitality, retail, and administration. However, living costs can be higher than in smaller cities. Consider your budget and study goals. If you prefer a quieter pace, regional Victoria also has CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to compare ELICOS courses across different locations.
Ready to start your journey? Find out more about Intensive Academic Preparation at Hawthorn Learning Pty Ltd.
Intensive Academic Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at Hawthorn Learning 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.