English for Academic Purposes (CRICOS course code 113562D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Excelsia University College over 36 weeks (~8 months). This ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) program is designed for international students who need to improve their English proficiency for entry into mainstream academic programs. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 02664K), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Excelsia University College, a private institution located in Pennant Hills, New South Wales, offers this course to help students develop the language skills necessary for university study. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses – all data on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. If you're considering studying English in Australia, this page provides essential information on fees, entry requirements, and student visa conditions.
English for Academic Purposes (CRICOS course code 113562D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Excelsia University College over 36 weeks (~8 months). It falls under the field of education 091501 – ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). This level is designed for students who have a basic command of English but need to develop academic language skills for tertiary study. The course focuses on reading, writing, listening, speaking, critical thinking, and research skills within an academic context. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Excelsia University College is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, ensuring it meets Australia's quality standards for international education.
This ELICOS program (field 091501) provides intensive English language training tailored for academic environments. Students typically learn how to write essays and reports, take lecture notes, participate in tutorials, and deliver presentations. The course also covers academic vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. While specific syllabi may vary, graduates of such programs are prepared for further studies in Australian universities or vocational institutions. The focus is on developing communicative competence and academic literacy skills essential for success in English-speaking higher education.
The course duration is 36 weeks (approximately 8 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – no dual or packaged options are listed. Students are expected to study full-time. The duration is fixed and typical for ELICOS programs at this level. For comparison, many similar academic English courses run between 20 and 40 weeks depending on the student's initial proficiency level. Always confirm the exact study mode and schedule with Excelsia University College.
Tuition fees for English for Academic Purposes at Excelsia University College are indicative at A$9,000, with non-tuition fees of A$750, giving an estimated total of A$9,750. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the provider. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Indicative living expenses in Sydney (near Pennant Hills) are around A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. Always visit Excelsia University College's official website for the most current fee schedule and to confirm any additional costs.
English language requirements vary by provider and course level. For English for Academic Purposes, typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the academic level targeted. Some providers may accept equivalent scores from TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge exams. Additionally, students are generally expected to have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 12. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements – contact Excelsia University College for details. As a general guide, ELICOS programs often have flexible entry levels based on placement tests. HeadStart Academy recommends you check the provider's entry requirements before applying.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, international students studying on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are a valuable benefit to help offset living costs. Always comply with visa work conditions and ensure your studies remain your primary purpose in Australia.
English for Academic Purposes is delivered at Excelsia University College's campus: 1 City View Road, Pennant Hills NSW 2120. Pennant Hills is a suburb in Sydney's north, approximately 20 km from the city centre. The area is well-served by public transport, including trains and buses, with a commute of about 40 minutes to Sydney CBD. Sydney is home to over 400 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia, with average rent for a one-bedroom unit around A$400–A$600 per week, groceries about A$80–A$150 per week, and a monthly transport pass around A$130–A$200. The campus itself is set in a quiet residential area with access to local amenities.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Excelsia University College, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, providing evidence of English proficiency (may be satisfied by the course itself if packaged), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. As of 2025, the visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, meaning you have legal rights including access to tuition protection and refund frameworks. For visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Pennant Hills offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to Sydney's city centre. It's a quieter area compared to inner-city suburbs, but still has shopping centres, parks, and community facilities. The student demographic is diverse, with many international students choosing the north shore for its safety and transport links. If you prefer a peaceful study environment with good connectivity, Pennant Hills could be ideal. However, consider the higher living costs in Sydney compared to other Australian cities like Adelaide or Brisbane. Also, the course is delivered on-campus, so proximity to the college is important. Evaluate your budget and lifestyle preferences before committing.
Follow these three steps to apply for English for Academic Purposes at Excelsia University College:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register on the TEQSA website or HeadStart Academy to verify that Excelsia University College (CRICOS 02664K) is registered and the course (113562D) is current. You can also filter by course level (Non AQF Award, ELICOS) and location (Pennant Hills, NSW).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Excelsia University College's website to review English language requirements (e.g., IELTS 5.5–7.0), submit your application, and provide supporting documents such as academic transcripts and English test results. Note application deadlines and any additional entry requirements.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Excelsia will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE requirement. After visa grant, plan your arrival and accommodation.
Ready to improve your academic English? Start your application to Excelsia University College today – check CRICOS registration, apply directly, and begin your student visa process.
English for Academic Purposes is a CRICOS-registered programme at Excelsia University 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.