Pearson Test of English-Academic Preparation (CRICOS 115118H)

Course overview

Pearson Test of English-Academic Preparation (CRICOS course code 115118H) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited over 24 weeks. This course falls under the field of education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), which is part of the broader Society and Culture category. It is specifically designed to help students build the English language skills necessary for academic success, focusing on reading, writing, listening, and speaking within an academic context. The course is offered by Mercury Colleges, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00172B) with campuses in New South Wales and South Australia. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian Qualification Framework certificate but serves as a targeted preparation program for the PTE Academic test. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy for your study planning.

What you'll study

This course is classified under field 091501 - ELICOS, meaning it focuses on English language development for academic purposes. While the exact syllabus is determined by Mercury Colleges, typical ELICOS courses at this level cover academic writing, critical reading, lecture comprehension, and oral presentation skills. Grammatical accuracy, vocabulary expansion, and test-taking strategies for the PTE Academic are also commonly included. Graduates of such programs generally achieve the English proficiency required to enter further study at Australian universities or vocational institutions. Because ELICOS courses are non-award, they are tailored to bridge students' current language level to the demands of their chosen academic pathway. Contact Mercury Colleges for a detailed syllabus.

Duration and study mode

The Pearson Test of English-Academic Preparation has a duration of 24 weeks according to the CRICOS register. This is a full-time course, delivered in English, and is a single qualification (not part of a dual award). Study modes may include face-to-face classes at one of Mercury Colleges' campuses. The intensive nature of the program is designed to improve English proficiency in a relatively short period. As an international student, you will be expected to attend a minimum of 20 hours per week of scheduled classes, plus independent study. Always verify the exact timetable with Mercury Colleges.

Fees (indicative — set by Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited)

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$12,000. In addition, non-tuition fees are A$500, making an estimated total of A$12,500. Please note: these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Mercury Colleges. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm the current cost with the provider before applying. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. For a full breakdown of fees, visit www.mercurycolleges.nsw.edu.au.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. Since this is an English preparation course, entry may be more flexible; however, students generally need a minimum English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0 or 5.5. Prior qualifications: a high school certificate or equivalent is usually expected. Foundation or pathway options may be available — contact Mercury Colleges for their specific entry criteria. Always check individual provider requirements and consult the Department of Home Affairs for student visa English language requirements.

Work component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs while you study.

Delivery locations

Mercury Colleges delivers this course at multiple locations across New South Wales and South Australia. The CRICOS register lists the following sites: Level 5, 245 Castlereagh St — SYDNEY, NSW; Level 7, 245-247 Castlereagh St Sydney NSW 2000 — Sydney, NSW; Lvl 1, 12 Butler Road - Hurstville — Hurstville, NSW; Lvls 1 & 2, 245-247 Castlereagh Street - Sydney — SYDNEY, NSW; and Suite 1, Lvl 4, 68 Grenfell St - Adelaide — ADELAIDE, SA. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community and excellent public transport. Hurstville is a suburb in southern Sydney with a strong multicultural atmosphere. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is known for its affordable living and relaxed lifestyle. Each campus provides access to facilities conducive to language learning.

Student visa (Subclass 500)

To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, proof of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, and OSHC), and English language proficiency (usually IELTS 5.5 or equivalent unless exempt). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must maintain OSHC for the duration of your stay. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are covered by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice — consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa applications.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Pearson Test of English-Academic Preparation at Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify Mercury Colleges is registered (CRICOS 00172B). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport). Submit an application through Mercury Colleges' admissions portal or contact their international office. Meet entry requirements and deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.

Is New South Wales right for you?

New South Wales (NSW) is home to more than 400 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a wealth of study options in Sydney and regional centres. The cost of living in Sydney is higher than in other Australian cities — indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around A$600, while outside the centre it's about A$450. Groceries and transport add another A$200–300 per week. Hurstville offers a more affordable alternative within commuting distance. NSW has excellent public transport, including trains, buses, and ferries, making it easy to reach campuses. If you prefer a smaller city with lower costs, consider the Adelaide campus in South Australia, where weekly rent averages A$400 in the city. Your choice should align with your budget, lifestyle, and career goals.

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