Express Preparation Program (CRICOS course code 116881J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd over 17 weeks. This program falls under the Mixed Field Programmes field of education (code 129999) and is designed to equip international students with foundational skills for further study or professional pathways. Delivered at 132 Grenfell St, Adelaide, SA, the course offers an indicative total fee of A$24,890, including tuition and non-tuition fees. Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03127E) is a Private provider registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring compliance with Australian Government standards for international education. As of April 2026, Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, and this program is one of many designed to help students transition into higher education. Whether you aim to improve your English proficiency or build academic skills, this course provides a structured pathway. All international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, and the course data here is sourced directly from the CRICOS register. Always verify fees and details with Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd before applying.
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The Express Preparation Program (CRICOS 116881J) is a Non AQF Award, meaning it does not lead to a formal Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) award but serves as a preparatory or bridging program. Classified under Mixed Field Programmes (12) and specifically Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. (129999), this course focuses on developing generic skills such as critical thinking, academic writing, and English language proficiency. It is offered exclusively to international students by Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd, a Private provider with CRICOS registration 03127E. The program is delivered full-time over 17 weeks at the Adelaide campus. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500) application. This program is ideal for students who need to strengthen their academic foundations before pursuing further studies at diploma or degree level. Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd also operates Murdoch College (murdochcollege.edu.au), though the Express Preparation Program is run independently. The course does not include a work component, and no dual qualification or foundation studies status applies.
As a Non AQF Award in Mixed Field Programmes, the Express Preparation Program typically covers broad, interdisciplinary content designed to prepare students for academic success. While the exact syllabus is set by Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd, students can expect to develop skills in academic English, research methods, communication, and study strategies. The field of education 129999 (Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.) encompasses programs that integrate multiple fields or provide general preparation for further learning. This course may also include modules on Australian culture, critical thinking, and numeracy. It is important to note that this is not a VET course (VET national code N/A) and does not lead to a vocational qualification. Instead, it bridges the gap between a student's current level and the requirements of higher education. Graduates often progress to certificate, diploma, or bachelor degree programs at Australian institutions. For specific syllabus details, refer to the provider's website.
The Express Preparation Program has a duration of 17 weeks (17 weeks exactly as per the CRICOS register). It is delivered full-time in English, with no other language options. This is a single qualification — it does not offer dual awards or combined qualifications. The course is not a foundation studies program, though it may serve a similar preparatory purpose. Students are expected to attend classes at the Adelaide campus located at 132 Grenfell St, Adelaide, SA. The 17-week timeframe allows for intensive learning, typically equivalent to one academic semester. Given the course length, students may be eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500) covering the entire study period. As always, confirm study mode (e.g., face-to-face, online) directly with Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd.
The indicative fees for the Express Preparation Program, as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are as follows: - Tuition fee: A$24,500 - Non-tuition fee: A$390 - Estimated total cost: A$24,890
Please note: These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the Student visa application charge. Indicative living costs in Adelaide range from A$400–A$600 per week for accommodation, groceries, and transport. OSHC costs vary by provider but typically start at around A$500 per year for single cover. All fees are set by Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd and subject to change. For the most current fee schedule, visit the provider's official website: murdochcollege.edu.au. HeadStart Academy strongly advises verifying fees directly with the institution before applying, as the figures shown are indicative only.
Entry requirements for the Express Preparation Program are set by Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd and may vary. As a general guide for Non AQF Award programs, English language proficiency is typically required — often IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent) depending on the course level. Prior academic qualifications expected may include completion of secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12. Some providers also consider work experience or alternative entry pathways. Since this is a preparatory program, foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements; always check with Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd for specific bridging or conditional offers. Note that entry requirements are subject to change and must be confirmed directly with the provider. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; consult the institution or a registered migration agent for personalised guidance.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students enrolled in the Express Preparation Program are not required to undertake work placements, internships, or practical training as part of the curriculum. However, student visa holders may voluntarily engage in part-time work in accordance with their visa conditions. For Student visa (Subclass 500) holders, work rights are limited to 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always ensure that work does not interfere with your studies, as attendance and academic progress are monitored by the provider.
The Express Preparation Program is delivered at a single campus location: - 132 Grenfell St, Adelaide, SA 5000
Adelaide is the capital of South Australia (SA), a city known for its vibrant student community and affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Adelaide is home to over 60 CRICOS-registered providers, including universities, colleges, and VET institutions. The campus at 132 Grenfell St is centrally located, within walking distance of public transport including trams and buses, and close to Rundle Mall and the University of Adelaide. With a student population exceeding 40,000 international students, Adelaide offers a supportive environment for newcomers. Indicative weekly costs in Adelaide: rent (shared) A$150–A$250, groceries A$80–A$120, public transport A$40–A$60. The city's mild climate and cultural festivals make it an attractive study destination. For more information about studying in South Australia, explore our dedicated page: /states/sa.
To study the Express Preparation Program as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (like this one), meet genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirements, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay and covers medical and hospital care. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; we are not a migration agent. For a comprehensive overview, see our student visa page: /visa/student-visa-subclass-500. Also learn about OSHC: /visa/oshc-health-cover.
Applying for the Express Preparation Program at Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd involves three straightforward steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Non AQF Award), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and location (Adelaide). Confirm that Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03127E) and the Express Preparation Program (116881J) meet your needs.
2. **Apply directly to Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd**: Visit their website at murdochcollege.edu.au to access the application form. Prepare required documents such as academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g., IELTS), and passport. Check application deadlines and any additional requirements. The provider will assess your eligibility and may issue a Letter of Offer.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Upon acceptance, Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd will issue a CoE, which you need to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. For visa assistance, consult a MARA agent or see our visa guide: /visa/student-visa-subclass-500.
Ready to start your journey? Apply to Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd today and take the first step towards studying in Australia. Contact the provider for the latest entry requirements and fees.
Express Preparation Program is a CRICOS-registered programme at Kaplan Higher Education 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.