There are 4 Primary School Studies courses offered by 4 CRICOS-registered providers across Australian Capital Territory. These courses are designed for international students seeking to complete their primary education in Australia, typically covering Years K to 6 in the Australian school system. While not assigned an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level, primary schooling provides essential foundational learning in literacy, numeracy, and social skills, preparing students for junior secondary education. All providers listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian Government standards and ESOS Act protections. ACT, centred on Canberra, offers a safe, family-friendly environment with high-quality educational institutions and excellent public transport access.
Primary School Studies courses in Australia are not part of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) but follow the Australian Curriculum framework. These courses are intended for international students aged approximately 5 to 12 years, depending on the program. Entry requirements typically include previous academic records and English language proficiency. Upon completion, students can progress to junior secondary studies (e.g., Year 7). Providers must meet strict CRICOS standards to enrol international students, ensuring quality and welfare. In ACT, primary schools are often affiliated with government or private systems, offering co-educational or single-gender settings.
Tuition fees for Primary School Studies in ACT range from A$77,700 to A$100,890, with course durations spanning 3 years 10 months (~200 weeks) to 7 years. The table below breaks down indicative fees and durations by field of education. Note: These figures are indicative only; actual fees are set by institutions and subject to change. Non-tuition costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and school uniforms are additional. Canberra's cost of living is approximately A$450–600 per week for rent, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$30–40 for public transport.
Four CRICOS-registered providers offer Primary School Studies in ACT. **Canberra Grammar School** (CRICOS 00580G) is a private, co-educational school in Red Hill, known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs. **ACT Education Directorate** (00643J) operates government primary schools across Canberra, offering inclusive education with diverse support services. **Canberra Girls' Grammar School** (01294F) is a private girls' school in Deakin, focusing on empowering young women through a balanced curriculum. **Covenant College Tuggeranong ACT Association Incorporated** (02943C) is a private Christian school in Tuggeranong, providing a faith-based learning environment. All providers are CRICOS-registered and subject to ESOS Act protections.
Primary School Studies in ACT fall under two broad fields of education: **07 - Education** and **12 - Mixed Field Programmes**. Education courses are typically offered by schools with a strong pedagogical focus, while Mixed Field Programmes integrate various learning areas such as humanities, science, and arts. In practice, both fields cover the Australian Curriculum's key learning areas: English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Languages, The Arts, Health and Physical Education, and Technologies. The distinction is administrative for CRICOS reporting purposes.
English language requirements vary by provider. For Primary School Studies, schools may require IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent), though some providers conduct their own English assessments. Younger students may be exempt if they have studied in an English-medium school previously. Always confirm directly with the institution. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's CRICOS registration and English policy before applying.
International students undertaking Primary School Studies in ACT need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Students under 18 must have adequate welfare arrangements; an accompanying parent or guardian may require a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs, and maintain valid OSHC for the duration of their stay. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each case individually. For personalised advice, consult a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only and does not offer migration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in a Primary School Studies course in Australian Capital Territory:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Primary School Studies) and location (ACT). Compare fees, durations, and school ethos.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your child's academic records, English test scores (if required), and any other documents. Submit the application before the deadline. Some schools may interview or assess the student.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, the school issues a CoE. Apply for a student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you include OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence.
The Australian Capital Territory offers a compact, safe environment with high-quality primary schools. Canberra, the capital, has a population of over 450,000 and a strong international community. Public transport is reliable, and campuses are well-connected. The cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a family apartment around A$500–700. ACT's primary schools focus on holistic development, with ample outdoor spaces and cultural activities. However, the number of CRICOS-registered primary schools is limited (4 providers). Consider whether your child prefers a government or private, co-educational or single-gender setting. Visit the school or attend a virtual open day to assess fit.
Ready to start your child's primary education in Australia? Explore CRICOS-registered Primary School Studies courses in ACT today.
Showing 4 primary school 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.