English Language Courses in Australia for International Students
Australia is one of the most popular destinations in the world for studying English as a second language. The country's ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) sector is highly regulated, with all providers required to be registered on CRICOS and meet strict quality standards set by the Australian Government. Whether you need to improve your general English skills, prepare for the IELTS or PTE Academic test, or complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program as a pathway to university, Australia offers a wide range of programs delivered by experienced, qualified teachers in a multicultural, English-speaking environment.
What is ELICOS?
ELICOS stands for English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students. It is the Australian Government's regulated framework for English language education delivered to international students on student visas. All ELICOS providers must be registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) and comply with the National ELICOS Standards 2018, which set requirements for teacher qualifications, class sizes, contact hours, and student support services. There are currently over 100 ELICOS providers across Australia, including university language centres, TAFE institutes, and private colleges. In 2024, more than 140,000 international students enrolled in ELICOS courses, making Australia one of the top three destinations globally for English language study.
Types of English Language Courses
ELICOS programs in Australia cover a range of course types, each designed for different goals and English proficiency levels. The following are the most common options available to international students.
General English
Builds everyday communication skills including speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Suitable for students who want to improve their overall English proficiency for daily life, travel, or work. Classes typically run 20-25 hours per week with a mix of classroom instruction and practical activities.
Academic English / EAP
English for Academic Purposes (EAP) develops the language skills needed for university study — academic writing, critical reading, research skills, referencing, oral presentations, and lecture comprehension. Completing an EAP program at an approved level can provide direct entry to a partnered university without requiring an IELTS or PTE score.
IELTS Preparation
Intensive preparation for the IELTS Academic test, covering all four modules — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Includes practice tests, test strategies, and targeted skill development. Designed for students who need to achieve a specific IELTS score for university admission or visa purposes.
PTE Academic Preparation
Focused preparation for the PTE Academic computer-based test. Covers the unique format of PTE including Read Aloud, Summarize Written Text, and Re-tell Lecture tasks. PTE results are typically available within 48 hours, making it a popular alternative to IELTS.
English for Specific Purposes
Specialised English programs tailored to specific industries or contexts — such as English for Business, English for Health Professionals, or English for Hospitality. Ideal for students who have a specific career pathway in mind and want to develop industry-relevant vocabulary and communication skills.
English Pathway to University — How It Works
The pathway system is one of the most powerful features of studying English in Australia. If your English proficiency does not yet meet the entry requirements for your chosen university course, you can complete an EAP program and progress directly into your degree without sitting an IELTS or PTE exam. Here is how the process works.
Choose a University and Course
Identify the degree you want to study and confirm the English language requirement (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent EAP level).
Apply for a Packaged Offer
Apply to both the English language centre and the university. If accepted, you receive a packaged conditional offer covering both programs.
Receive a Packaged CoE
The university and English provider issue a combined Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) that covers the full duration of your English course plus your degree.
Apply for Your Student Visa
Lodge your Subclass 500 visa application using the packaged CoE. Your visa will cover the entire study period including the English component.
Complete EAP and Progress
Attend your EAP program and achieve the required level. Upon successful completion, you progress directly into your university degree — no additional English test needed.
Packaged CoEs — Combining English and a Degree
A packaged Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) combines your English language course and your subsequent degree or VET qualification into a single enrolment package. This has several practical advantages. First, you apply for one student visa that covers your entire study period, including the English component. Second, it demonstrates to the Department of Home Affairs that you have a clear, structured study plan, which can strengthen your visa application. Third, it provides certainty that you have a guaranteed place in your degree program upon completing your English requirements. To be eligible for a packaged CoE, both the English provider and the degree provider must be CRICOS-registered, and there must be a formal pathway agreement between them. For more on the CoE process, see our Confirmation of Enrolment guide.
Choosing a CRICOS-Registered English Provider
When selecting an English language school, ensure it is registered on CRICOS. Only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students on student visas, and registration requires the provider to meet strict standards for teaching quality, student support, and financial viability. Consider the following factors when choosing a provider: whether they have pathway agreements with your target university, the class size (smaller is generally better for language learning), the qualifications and experience of teachers, the range of support services (academic advising, accommodation assistance, social activities), and the location — studying English in a city where you plan to attend university helps you settle in early.
Student Visa Eligibility for English Courses
International students can study English in Australia on a Subclass 500 Student Visa. To be eligible, your ELICOS course must be registered on CRICOS and run for a minimum duration that qualifies for a student visa (typically at least 14 weeks for a standalone English course, though shorter courses may be included in a package). You will need to demonstrate genuine temporary entrant status, financial capacity to cover tuition and living expenses, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). English courses do not have English entry requirements in the same way that university degrees do, though most providers will assess your level on arrival and place you in an appropriate class. For full visa requirements, see our Australian Student Visa guide.
Costs and Budgeting for English Study
Beyond tuition fees of $300-$450 per week, budget for the following additional costs: enrolment fees ($100-$250, one-off), course materials ($100-$300), IELTS or PTE exam fees ($400-$420 per attempt), OSHC ($50-$70/month), accommodation ($200-$500/week depending on city), and living expenses ($400-$600/week). The Department of Home Affairs requires proof of at least $29,710 per year for living costs as part of your visa application. Total costs for a 20-week English program including living expenses range from approximately $15,000 to $25,000 depending on the city and your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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