High School Preparation (HSP) (CRICOS course code 118088G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Pivot Education Pty Ltd over 1 year 4 months (~69 weeks). This ELICOS program is designed for international students who need to improve their English language skills before entering an Australian high school. The course focuses on developing reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities within an academic context. As a CRICOS-registered course, it ensures quality standards under the ESOS Act. Pivot Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04369A) delivers this program at two locations: 51 Brady Street, South Melbourne, VIC, and Level 4, 841 George Street, Haymarket, NSW. The indicative tuition fee is A$30,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$200. All international students must hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500) and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). At HeadStart Academy, we provide accurate, up-to-date information from the official CRICOS register to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
High School Preparation (HSP) (CRICOS course code 118088G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Pivot Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04369A) over 1 year 4 months (~69 weeks). This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' with a focus on '0915 - Language and Literature' and specifically '091501 - ELICOS'. As an ELICOS program, it is designed for international students whose first language is not English and who wish to develop their academic English skills to meet the entry requirements for secondary schooling in Australia. The course does not lead to a formal Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) award but serves as a pathway to further studies. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian Government standards for international education. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, you can trust that this course meets rigorous quality benchmarks. Pivot Education Pty Ltd is a private provider committed to preparing students for success in Australian high schools.
The High School Preparation (HSP) program covers English language proficiency across four key areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The curriculum is tailored to equip students with the language skills necessary to thrive in an Australian high school environment. Typical learning outcomes include understanding classroom instructions, participating in discussions, reading academic texts, composing essays and reports, and developing study skills. While the specific syllabus may vary by provider, graduates of ELICOS courses like this one are expected to reach an English level equivalent to IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the target high school grade. The course emphasises practical communication and academic literacy, preparing students for subjects such as mathematics, science, humanities, and English. It is important to note that this course is a Non AQF Award, meaning it does not count towards a formal Australian qualification but provides a crucial foundation for future study. Pivot Education Pty Ltd designs its program to meet the needs of international students, with small class sizes and experienced teachers.
The High School Preparation (HSP) program runs for 1 year 4 months (~69 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The duration reflects full-time study, typically consisting of 20-25 contact hours per week. The language of instruction is English, requiring a basic level of English proficiency at entry (usually IELTS 4.0–5.0 or equivalent). This is a single qualification course — it does not offer a dual award or specialisation. Students should commit to the full 69-week program to achieve the required English level for entry into an Australian high school. Pivot Education Pty Ltd may offer intake dates throughout the year; check directly with the provider for exact start dates. The study mode is on-campus at either the South Melbourne or Haymarket location. As an ELICOS course, it is intensive and immersive, designed to rapidly improve English skills. Attendance is mandatory to maintain compliance with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for High School Preparation (HSP) is A$30,000 for the full 69-week program. Non-tuition fees are approximately A$200, covering application and administrative costs, bringing the estimated total to A$30,200. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Pivot Education Pty Ltd. The fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500). OSHC costs vary by provider and policy type, typically ranging from A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Additionally, living expenses are not included: students should budget for accommodation, food, transport, and other personal costs. According to the Department of Home Affairs, the cost of living in Australia is approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student. In Melbourne or Sydney, weekly rents for shared accommodation average A$200–A$400, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$30–$50. These figures are indicative and can vary significantly based on lifestyle and location.
Entry requirements for High School Preparation (HSP) are set by Pivot Education Pty Ltd and typically include a minimum English language proficiency level. While specific requirements vary, students should generally have an IELTS score of 4.0–5.0 or equivalent. For progression to an Australian high school, a higher level of English (e.g., IELTS 5.5–7.0) is usually required, which the HSP program aims to develop. Applicants must have completed at least Year 9 or equivalent in their home country. No prior Australian qualification is necessary. Foundation or pathway options: upon successful completion of HSP, students can proceed to secondary school studies. For precise entry criteria, including age requirements and academic prerequisites, consult the provider directly. Pivot Education Pty Ltd may also accept alternative English tests like TOEFL or PTE. It is important to note that meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee enrolment; each application is assessed individually. Always check with the provider for the most current entry information.
This course has no work component. High School Preparation (HSP) does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain work experience and supplement their living expenses while studying. If you are interested in courses with an integrated work component, explore other pathways such as vocational education and training (VET) programs. As always, ensure you understand your visa work rights and conditions by consulting the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
Pivot Education Pty Ltd delivers the High School Preparation (HSP) program at two locations: 51 Brady Street, South Melbourne, VIC 3205, and Level 4, 841 George Street, Haymarket, NSW 2000. The South Melbourne campus is situated in a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne, known for its arts and dining scene. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. The Haymarket campus is in the heart of Sydney's central business district, near Chinatown and Darling Harbour. Sydney has the highest number of international students in Australia, with over 300 CRICOS-registered providers. Both locations offer excellent public transport access: South Melbourne is serviced by trams and buses, while Haymarket is close to Central Station and multiple train, bus, and light rail lines. Living costs in Sydney are generally higher than in Melbourne, with weekly rents averaging A$300–$500 for shared accommodation compared to A$200–$400 in Melbourne. Choosing between these vibrant cities depends on your personal preferences, budget, and academic goals. HeadStart Academy provides detailed location guides to help you decide.
International students enrolling in High School Preparation (HSP) will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course. To be granted a Student visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). As of April 2026, the visa application charge is A$1,600 (indicative, subject to change). Working rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Your visa will be conditional on attending at least 80% of scheduled classes and maintaining satisfactory course progress. Upon completing your HSP, you can apply for a new Student visa for your subsequent high school course. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs website or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy provides general visa information but does not offer immigration advice. ESOS Act protections ensure you receive quality education and consumer rights, including tuition fee protection if the provider fails to deliver the course.
High School Preparation (HSP) is ideal for international students who have completed at least Year 9 in their home country and wish to enter an Australian high school but need to strengthen their English language skills. If your English level is below what your target high school requires (typically IELTS 5.5–7.0), this course will bridge the gap. It is a focused, intensive program that prepares you for academic success. Consider that ELICOS courses are often a stepping stone, so ensure you have a clear plan for your subsequent studies. Both Melbourne and Sydney offer excellent high schools, but you will need to apply separately to the school of your choice after completing HSP. Also, factor in the total cost: tuition plus living expenses for 69 weeks can be significant. For example, living costs in Melbourne for that period could be A$20,000–30,000. However, the investment in your education and future opportunities in Australia can be worthwhile. HeadStart Academy's free resource helps you compare providers and courses to find the best fit.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy or contact Pivot Education Pty Ltd directly for application details.
High School Preparation (HSP) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Pivot 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.