IELTS Preparation (CRICOS course code 117793A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Vigil International College Pty Ltd over 36 weeks (~8 months). This course is designed for international students who need to improve their English language skills to achieve the IELTS score required for entry into Australian universities, vocational programs, or migration purposes. As part of the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) field, it falls under the broader Society and Culture category (Field of Education 091501). Vigil International College, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 04044M), delivers this course from its Parramatta campuses in New South Wales. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, choosing a registered course ensures quality and ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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IELTS Preparation (CRICOS course code 117793A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Vigil International College Pty Ltd over 36 weeks (~8 months). The course focuses on preparing students for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, covering all four language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It is a single qualification (not a dual qualification or foundation studies) with no work component. The course is taught in English and is intended for non-native speakers aiming to achieve a target IELTS band score, typically for further study, work, or migration. Vigil International College is a private provider registered on CRICOS, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards for international students.
The course is classified under ELICOS (091501), within the field of Language and Literature (0915) under Society and Culture (09). While specific syllabi vary by provider, ELICOS programs generally develop academic English proficiency, including exam techniques, time management, and strategies for each IELTS section. Students engage in intensive practice tests, vocabulary building, grammar reinforcement, and conversational fluency activities. Graduates typically achieve the language competency needed to meet university entry requirements or satisfy visa English conditions. The course does not count towards an Australian qualification (Non AQF Award), but the skills gained are essential for academic and professional success in an English-speaking environment.
The IELTS Preparation course runs for 36 weeks (~8 months), as listed on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and students focus full-time on this single qualification. No dual qualification or foundation studies are offered. The study mode is typically face-to-face at the provider's campuses, requiring consistent attendance. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Parramatta, where the campuses are located, is a major transport hub with trains, buses, and ferries, making commuting accessible from across Sydney. The city has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community.
The indicative fees for this course are sourced from the CRICOS register: tuition A$10,500, non-tuition fees A$600, giving an estimated total of A$11,100. These fees are set by Vigil International College and subject to change — always confirm directly with the provider before applying. The total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For context, living costs in Parramatta are approximately A$350–$500 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, depending on lifestyle. OSHC costs around A$600–$800 per year for single students. Always budget for additional expenses and check the provider's website for current fee schedules.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For IELTS Preparation courses, providers may require a minimum existing IELTS score (e.g., 4.5–5.0) or equivalent, as the course aims to improve proficiency. Prior qualifications: students should have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12. Foundation or pathway options: if your English is below the required level, some providers offer preliminary ELICOS programs. Refer to Vigil International College's website for specific entry criteria. Note that meeting academic requirements does not guarantee visa approval — the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and financial capacity will also be assessed.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are not tied to the course itself. Always check your visa conditions before undertaking any employment.
The course is delivered at two locations in Parramatta, NSW: Level 2, 12-14 Wentworth St, Parramatta NSW 2150 and Suite 2, Level 2, 16-18 Wentworth St, Parramatta NSW 2150. Parramatta is a major commercial and educational hub in Western Sydney, with a large student population. Both campuses are within walking distance of Parramatta train station, bus interchanges, and the Parramatta ferry wharf. The area offers numerous cafes, libraries, and student services. Parramatta is home to several universities and colleges, providing a supportive environment for international students. The city has a relatively lower cost of living compared to central Sydney, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–$450.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500), which allows full-time study of a CRICOS-registered course. Key conditions: maintain enrolment, attend classes, and meet attendance requirements. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must also have adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for IELTS Preparation at Vigil International College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy's database filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Parramatta) to compare options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — meet entry requirements, submit English test scores (if applicable), and check application deadlines. Contact Vigil International College via their website for forms and guidance. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — once accepted, you'll get a CoE, which you need for the visa application. Ensure you have OSHC and necessary funds ready. Consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA agent for assistance.
Ready to apply? Start your research on HeadStart Academy's CRICOS database.
IELTS Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at Vigil International College 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.