There are 4 Junior Secondary Studies courses offered by 4 CRICOS-registered providers across Australian Capital Territory. These courses provide international students with a strong foundation in core academic subjects during the crucial middle years of schooling, typically covering Years 7 to 10. ACT is home to Canberra, Australia's capital city, which offers a safe, multicultural environment with excellent public transport and a high standard of living. All listed providers are registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring they meet Australian Government standards for teaching and student support. Australia has over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,433 courses to international students. This page provides a comprehensive overview of Junior Secondary Studies in ACT, including tuition fees, duration, top providers, and visa requirements.
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Junior Secondary Studies in Australia correspond to Years 7 to 10 (ages 12-16) and form the bridge between primary school and senior secondary education. While not a standalone Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) qualification, successful completion prepares students for higher-level study such as the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Year 11-12) or vocational pathways. Typical entry requirements include completion of equivalent primary school education and demonstrated English proficiency (IELTS 5.0-5.5 or equivalent). The curriculum covers English, mathematics, science, humanities, and languages, providing a broad academic base. Students develop critical thinking, research skills, and social capabilities essential for future study. After Junior Secondary Studies, students may progress to Senior Secondary Certificate of Education or Certificate I/II courses.
Indicative tuition fees for Junior Secondary Studies in ACT range from A$90,400 to A$116,170, depending on the provider and course structure. Duration varies from 3 years 8 months (~190 weeks) to 6 years, with most programs designed to cover the full junior secondary cycle. The table below provides indicative ranges by field of education. Note that these fees are set by individual institutions and are subject to change. Additional costs include non-tuition fees (e.g., enrolment, materials), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and living expenses (approximately A$25,000 per year for accommodation, food, and transport in Canberra). Always confirm current fees directly with the provider.
Below are the four CRICOS-registered providers offering Junior Secondary Studies in ACT, each with a distinct strength: - **Canberra Grammar School (CRICOS 00580G)**: A prestigious private school in Red Hill, known for its strong academic tradition and extensive co-curricular programs. It offers one Junior Secondary Studies course with a focus on holistic development. - **ACT Education Directorate (CRICOS 00643J)**: The government authority managing public schools across ACT. It provides a structured, inclusive education environment with access to multiple campuses in Canberra. - **Canberra Girls' Grammar School (CRICOS 01294F)**: A leading private girls' school in Deakin, emphasising academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Its Junior Secondary program fosters a supportive learning culture. - **Covenant College Tuggeranong ACT Association Incorporated (CRICOS 02943C)**: A private Christian school in Tuggeranong, offering a values-based education with small class sizes and personalised attention.
Junior Secondary Studies in ACT are classified under two broad fields of education: **Mixed Field Programmes (12)** and **Education (07)**. Mixed Field Programmes cover general education combining multiple learning areas, typical of middle school curricula. Education field programmes focus on foundational teaching and learning skills. These fields reflect the comprehensive nature of junior secondary schooling, where students study a variety of subjects without specialising. The two fields encompass all 4 courses available in ACT, ensuring that international students receive a balanced academic grounding.
International students applying for Junior Secondary Studies in ACT typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0 to 5.5 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Some providers may set higher standards or offer English language preparation programs. This level ensures students can engage with the curriculum and participate in classroom activities. It is important to check individual provider requirements, as they may vary. Students who do not meet the minimum English requirement may be able to enrol in a Foundation Studies program or English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) before commencing Junior Secondary Studies.
International students undertaking Junior Secondary Studies in ACT generally require a **Student visa (Subclass 500)**. Students under 18 years of age may need an accompanying parent or guardian to hold a **Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590)**. All visa applicants must satisfy the **Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)** criterion, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. For detailed information, consult the [Student Visa Subclass 500 guide](/visa/student-visa-subclass-500). Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Canberra offers a unique study environment as Australia's capital, with a student population exceeding 40,000 at various levels. The city is known for its safety, clean environment, and numerous parks. Living costs are moderate: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$300–A$500, groceries A$100–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60 (with student discounts). Many schools are accessible via buses and light rail. Canberra's multicultural community provides a welcoming atmosphere for international students. However, the city has a colder winter climate compared to coastal Australian cities. This, combined with limited nightlife, may suit students seeking a focused academic setting.
Follow these three steps to enrol in a Junior Secondary Studies course in ACT:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register to find providers offering Junior Secondary Studies in ACT. Filter by course level, field, and location (e.g., Canberra). All providers listed on this page are CRICOS-registered.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Prepare your academic transcripts, English proficiency test results (e.g., IELTS), and a copy of your passport. Check each provider's entry requirements and application deadlines. Submit your application online or through the school's admissions office.
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) through the Department of Home Affairs. If you are under 18, your parent/guardian may apply for a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). Ensure you have OSHC coverage before visa grant.
Ready to start your Junior Secondary Studies in ACT? Explore our detailed provider pages and initiate your application today. For visa guidance, visit the [Student Visa Subclass 500 guide](/visa/student-visa-subclass-500).
Showing 4 junior secondary studies courses from 4 CRICOS providers in Australian Capital Territory.
Counted from the official register for ACT: 4 non-expired CRICOS courses across 4 providers.
Most common course levels
Planning baseline from the CRICOS register [CRICOS register, Apr 2026]. Confirm fees, intakes and visa settings with the provider and government sources before applying.