There are 91 Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses offered by 86 CRICOS-registered providers across Queensland. This qualification, equivalent to Years 11 and 12, is your gateway to university, vocational training, or employment in Australia. Queensland offers a diverse range of providers—from government schools to prestigious private institutions—in vibrant cities like Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Townsville. Whether you're aiming for an academic pathway or practical skills, completing a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education in Queensland gives you a recognised credential under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
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The Senior Secondary Certificate of Education is an AQF Level 1 qualification that typically takes two years (Years 11 and 12). It prepares students for higher education, vocational training, or direct entry into the workforce. Entry usually requires completion of junior secondary (Year 10) or equivalent. This certificate is awarded by state and territory education authorities and is recognised by all Australian universities. International students often use this qualification to meet university admission requirements. In Queensland, the certificate is known as the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) when awarded by government schools, but private schools may issue their own certificates under CRICOS registration.
Tuition fees for Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses in Queensland range from A$29,816 to A$107,700, depending on the provider and location. Duration varies between 1 year 11 months (~100 weeks) and 2 years. Below is an indicative breakdown by field of education. Note that non-tuition fees (enrolment, materials), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and living costs (weekly rent A$150–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, transport A$30–A$60) are additional.
The Corporation of the Synod of the Diocese of Brisbane (CRICOS 00487E) is a private provider operating Anglican schools in Brisbane and regional areas, known for strong pastoral care. Lutheran Church of Australia - Queensland District (00516E) runs Lutheran schools across the state, offering a values-based education. The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association (00522G) manages prestigious schools like Somerville House and St Hilda's in Brisbane. Board of Trustees of the Townsville Grammar School (00564G) is a leading independent school in Townsville with a focus on academic excellence. The Department of Education (00608A) oversees government schools throughout Queensland, providing accessible education for international students. King's Christian Education Ltd. (00341A) operates Christian schools in Brisbane. Blackheath and Thornburgh College (00488D) is a boarding school in Charters Towers. Brisbane Grammar School (00489C) is a top boys' school in Brisbane.
Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses in Queensland cover two fields of education under the Australian Standard Classification of Education (ASCED): '12 - Mixed Field Programmes' and '07 - Education'. Mixed Field Programmes offer a broad general curriculum including English, mathematics, science, humanities, and electives. These programs are designed to meet university entrance requirements. Education-focused programs (field 07) introduce students to the principles of teaching and learning, often as a pathway to a Bachelor of Education. Most providers offer the Mixed Field Programmes track, while a few specialise in Education.
International students need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) to enrol in Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses in Queensland. Some providers may accept TOEFL iBT 35–46, PTE Academic 36–42, or Cambridge English 154–162. Specific requirements vary by provider—always check with the institution. Students who do not meet the English threshold may enrol in an ELICOS (English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students) program before starting their main course.
To study a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education in Queensland, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). If you are under 18, your parent or guardian may require a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) to accompany you. Your visa application must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and include Overseas Student Health Cover. HeadStart Academy provides detailed visa guides—always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to secure your place in a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education program in Queensland: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy—filter by course level, field, and city to find your ideal school. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution, submitting academic transcripts, English test scores, and any other required documents. Deadlines vary, so plan ahead. 3) Once accepted, you'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) online through the Department of Home Affairs.
Queensland offers a warm climate, diverse cities, and world-class education. Brisbane, the capital, is home to over 100,000 international students with affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast provide beachside lifestyles, while regional centres like Townsville and Cairns offer unique outdoor experiences. Public transport is reliable in major cities, and many schools provide homestay or boarding options. Consider your study preferences—some schools specialise in STEM, while others focus on the arts. With 86 CRICOS-registered providers offering 91 courses, you have ample choice.
Explore all 91 Senior Secondary Certificate of Education courses in Queensland on HeadStart Academy today.
Showing 80 senior secondary certificate of education courses from 75 CRICOS providers in Queensland.
Counted from the official register for QLD: 91 non-expired CRICOS courses across 86 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.