ACT Education Directorate (CRICOS provider code 00643J) is a government CRICOS-registered provider offering 2 active courses to international students. As the public education authority in the Australian Capital Territory, it manages a network of government schools across Canberra and its suburbs. This profile provides essential information for international students and their families considering primary or junior secondary studies in a safe, high-quality Australian government school environment. With a total CRICOS-registered capacity of 1,591 students, the Directorate delivers courses in the field of Mixed Field Programmes, covering general primary and secondary education. All courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive the same legal safeguards as domestic students.
ACT Education Directorate is the government body responsible for public schooling in the Australian Capital Territory. Registered on CRICOS under provider code 00643J, it currently offers two active courses: Primary School Studies and Junior Secondary Studies. These programs are designed for international students typically aged 5-12 (primary) and 12-15 (junior secondary). The Directorate operates through numerous schools across Canberra suburbs, providing a comprehensive curriculum that aligns with the Australian Curriculum. As a government provider, it adheres to strict quality standards set by the ACT Government and the Australian Government's Department of Education. International students benefit from dedicated support services, including English language assistance and welfare programs. The Directorate's CRICOS registration is a key trust signal, confirming that it meets all requirements to enrol international students.
In the CRICOS context, 'Government' refers to public education providers owned and operated by state or territory governments. This includes public schools, TAFE institutes, and universities. For ACT Education Directorate, being a government provider means it is part of the ACT public school system, which is funded and regulated by the ACT Government. International students choosing a government provider can expect consistent quality, adherence to the Australian Curriculum, and often lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. Government schools are also subject to regular audits and compliance checks under the ESOS framework. It is important to note that private providers (categorised as 'Private' on CRICOS) include independent schools, language colleges, and vocational colleges. Always verify the provider type on CRICOS to understand the regulatory environment and fee structure.
ACT Education Directorate delivers courses through multiple schools located in various Canberra suburbs. Each school operates as a delivery location under the provider's CRICOS registration. Below is a list of delivery locations grouped by suburb: - Stirling: ACT Education and Training Directorate, ACT 2611 - Taylor: Agnes Shea High School, ACT 2913 - Braddon: Ainslie School, ACT 2612 - Deakin: Alfred Deakin High School, ACT 2600 - Amaroo: Amaroo School, ACT 2914 - Aranda: Aranda Primary School, ACT 2614 - Waramanga: Arawang Primary School, ACT 2611 - Hawker: Belconnen High School, ACT 2614 - Bonython: (school not specified in sample) - Calwell: (school not specified in sample) These locations cover a wide geographic area, ensuring accessibility for families living in different parts of Canberra. Each school offers modern facilities, qualified teachers, and a supportive environment for international students. Transportation options include public buses and school buses, with most suburbs well-connected to Canberra's city centre.
ACT Education Directorate offers two course levels to international students: 1. Primary School Studies: This program is for students typically aged 5 to 12 years. It covers key learning areas such as English, mathematics, science, history, geography, the arts, and physical education. The curriculum is designed to develop foundational skills and a love for learning. International students are integrated into mainstream classes with additional English language support if needed. 2. Junior Secondary Studies: For students aged 12 to 15 years, this program builds on primary education and prepares students for senior secondary studies. Subjects include English, mathematics, science, humanities, languages, and electives. The focus is on critical thinking, collaboration, and independent learning. Both programs are full-time and comply with the Australian Curriculum framework.
The courses offered by ACT Education Directorate fall under the ASCED broad field '12 - Mixed Field Programmes'. This field encompasses general education programs that provide broad knowledge and skills, rather than specialised vocational or academic disciplines. For example, Primary School Studies and Junior Secondary Studies are classified under Mixed Field Programmes because they cover a range of subjects without deep specialisation. This is typical of school-level education in Australia. When searching for courses on the CRICOS register, you can filter by field of education to find programs that match your interests. For higher specialisation, students can progress to senior secondary or vocational courses in specific fields like science, arts, or trades.
International students intending to study with ACT Education Directorate must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) or, if under 18, may require a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). The visa application process involves several key requirements: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion: You must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Mandatory health insurance for the duration of your stay. - Financial capacity: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel. For Canberra, indicative living costs are around AUD 21,041 per year (as per Department of Home Affairs). - English language proficiency: For school-level courses, this may be waived if your previous education was in English, but schools may set their own requirements. - Welfare arrangements: Students under 18 must have approved accommodation and welfare support. HeadStart Academy provides comprehensive guidance on student visa applications in our Student Visa (Subclass 500) guide. Note that visa outcomes are at the discretion of the Department of Home Affairs, and we recommend consulting a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to secure your place at ACT Education Directorate: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to confirm ACT Education Directorate's registration (code 00643J) and explore the available courses. You can also visit the Directorate's website for detailed information about entry requirements, application deadlines, and school options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit an application to ACT Education Directorate through their international student application process. This typically includes providing academic transcripts, English language test scores (if required), and a completed application form. You may also need to nominate preferred schools. The Directorate will assess your application and notify you of the outcome. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online through ImmiAccount. Ensure you have all supporting documents, including OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. After visa grant, you can make travel arrangements and prepare for your studies in Canberra.
Before applying, always confirm the CRICOS registration status of ACT Education Directorate on the official register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au. Search for provider code 00643J to see up-to-date information on active courses, capacity, and any changes. CRICOS registration is a legal requirement for enrolling international students, and it ensures the provider meets Australian Government standards. HeadStart Academy sources its data from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, but registration status can change. Always verify directly before making decisions.
Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is home to over 40,000 international students (source: Study Canberra). It offers a safe, clean environment with excellent educational institutions, including the Australian National University, University of Canberra, and several government schools. Living costs in Canberra are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around AUD 300-500, groceries AUD 100-150, and public transport AUD 40-50. The city is well-connected with buses and light rail. Studying with ACT Education Directorate gives you access to high-quality government education in a purpose-built capital city. With numerous CRICOS-registered providers in the ACT (over 20), you have options across different levels. HeadStart Academy's ACT guide provides further insights.
Explore more government school options in the ACT on HeadStart Academy, or contact ACT Education Directorate directly for application dates and fees.
ACT Education Directorate (CRICOS 00643J) is a Government provider in Canberra Act, ACT with 2 currently non-expired CRICOS courses [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Example course from the register: Secondary Junior to Senior Years 7-12 (CRICOS 004751F) is listed at 312 weeks with tuition A$90,400 and estimated total A$90,665 [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Important: This page is general information only and not migration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) evidence requirements and current financial settings, verify directly with the Department of Home Affairs [checked 2026-08-21].