Are you considering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program in Australia? International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (Years 11 & 12) (CRICOS course code 119879A) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association over 2 years. This globally recognised qualification is offered at Somerville House in South Brisbane, Queensland, providing international students with a rigorous academic pathway to top universities worldwide. As a CRICOS-registered course (00522G), it meets strict Australian standards for international education. This page covers everything you need to know: indicative fees, entry requirements, delivery location, student visa obligations, and how to apply. HeadStart Academy is a free resource using the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. All data is sourced from the Australian Government, and no referral fees are involved.
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International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (Years 11 & 12) (CRICOS course code 119879A) is a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education delivered by The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association over 2 years. This course falls under the field of General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes (120101), aimed at students aged approximately 16–18. The IB Diploma is designed to develop critical thinking, research skills, and international-mindedness. Graduates typically earn an internationally recognised certificate that facilitates entry into universities in Australia and abroad. The provider, The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association (CRICOS 00522G), is a private institution operating Somerville House, a well-established school in South Brisbane. This course is exclusively available at Somerville House for international students. As a CRICOS-registered course, it complies with the ESOS Act, ensuring consumer protection for overseas students.
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is a comprehensive two-year curriculum that balances breadth and depth. Students study six subject groups: Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts. Additionally, the program includes three core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). This structure develops analytical skills, independent research, and personal growth. While this is a general description, the exact subjects offered may vary by provider. The field of education (120101 - General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes) indicates that graduates are prepared for higher education and lifelong learning. The program is delivered entirely in English, so strong English proficiency is essential.
According to the CRICOS register, International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (Years 11 & 12) has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course — it does not lead to a dual qualification or include foundation studies. There is no mandatory work component. Students typically attend full-time at the Somerville House campus in South Brisbane. The school follows the Queensland school calendar, with four terms per year. As an international student, you will be expected to maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of your Student visa (Subclass 500).
Course fees shown are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. For the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (119879A) at The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association, the indicative tuition fee is A$98,800 for the full two years. Non-tuition fees (including materials, excursions, etc.) are estimated at A$73,740, bringing the estimated total to A$172,540. Please note: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the Visa Application Charge. International students in Australia typically require A$21,041–A$30,000 per year for living costs (single student) according to the Department of Home Affairs. For current fees, always confirm directly with the provider at www.somerville.qld.edu.au.
As a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, the IB Diploma requires prior qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 10 completion. International students must demonstrate English proficiency — typically IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) for entry into Year 11. Some students may require a preparatory English course or foundation program if they do not meet the direct entry requirements. The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association may have additional academic entry criteria; contact them directly for personalised assessment. Foundation or pathway options may be available through other providers but are not part of this course. Remember, meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students studying on a Subclass 500 visa are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, the primary purpose of your stay is study.
This course is delivered solely at Somerville House, located in South Brisbane, Queensland (postcode 4101). South Brisbane is a vibrant inner-city suburb with excellent public transport connections — buses and trains to the city and beyond. Brisbane has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The city's student population exceeds 150,000, with living costs estimated at A$1,300–A$1,800 per month for rent, food, and transport. Somerville House is within walking distance of South Bank Parklands and the Brisbane River, offering a safe and culturally rich environment for international students.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Students under 18 years of age at the time of arrival typically require a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) for an accompanying parent or guardian. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered providers, including The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association, are bound by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition protection and quality standards. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (119879A) at The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Senior Secondary), field (General Education), and location (Queensland). Confirm the provider's CRICOS registration (00522G) and course availability. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Somerville House's website (www.somerville.qld.edu.au) to download the application form. Submit academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 5.0–5.5 or equivalent), and other required documents. Be mindful of application deadlines — often several months before the start of the academic year. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once the provider issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you also arrange OSHC and prepare evidence of financial capacity.
South Brisbane is a prime location for international students, offering proximity to the Brisbane CBD, cultural precincts, and the South Bank lifestyle. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally and 26,433 courses (April 2026), you have many options. Brisbane's climate is subtropical with mild winters, and the cost of living is lower than Sydney or Melbourne. However, the IB Diploma is demanding — consider your academic strengths and career goals. Somerville House has strong support services for international students. We recommend visiting the school or attending a virtual open day to assess if the environment suits you.
Ready to take the next step? Use HeadStart Academy to explore more courses or apply directly to Somerville House. Remember to verify all details with the provider before applying.
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International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (Years 11 & 12) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association. 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.