Comprehensive Guide to ELICOS English Language Schools in Australia | Fees, Courses and Application Process
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Have you ever thought about studying abroad to learn English but don't know which country to start with? If you want to improve your language skills, enjoy life and make friends from all over the world, Australia is definitely a choice worth adding to your list.
This article will introduce you to the outstanding features and types of courses at English language schools in Australia, helping you find the most suitable study direction for yourself.
INDEX
I. What is a language school in Australia ? Learn about ELICOS courses
III. Introduction to ELICOS course types
IV. Compare tuition fees for English courses in Australia: Analysis of costs and start times
V. How to apply to study English in Australia: Instructions on the process and documents needed
VI. Conclusion : Choosing the right school opens up your English journey in Australia
I. What is a language school in Australia? Learn about ELICOS courses
ELICOS – Intensive English Language Courses for International Students
In Australia, international students can improve their English proficiency through ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). Whether you are preparing for university, preparing for the IELTS exam, or simply want to improve your English communication skills for everyday life, ELICOS offers a range of courses suited to your needs.
ELICOS is taught by government-recognized language schools in Australia, offering intensive and flexible coursework that meets the requirements of the Student Visa Subclass 500. Each course typically involves about 20-25 hours per week, making it suitable for those who want to study short-term for rapid improvement or long-term to prepare for university programs (Source: Australian Government).
ELICOS courses are available in major cities across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Adelaide, and more, allowing you to choose a location that aligns with your lifestyle and personal goals.
II. Why study English in Australia? Discover the advantages and learning environment at language schools
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- English Immersion Environment: Living and studying entirely in English helps you improve your language skills quickly and effectively.
- Government-supervised Education Quality: All ELICOS providers are registered in the CRICOS system (the Register of Courses and Providers for International Students in Australia), ensuring high-quality teaching and transparency.
- Flexible Study Duration: You can choose courses ranging from 2 weeks to over a year and can start your studies year-round, making it suitable for all study plans.
- Support for Academic, Work, and Immigration Pathways: Courses such as EAP (English for Academic Purposes) and exam preparation courses help you prepare for further studies, job opportunities, or immigration applications to Australia.
- Legal Work Rights: If you enroll in a course longer than 6 months, you can apply for a student visa and are permitted to work 48 hours every two weeks, helping cover living expenses.
- Multicultural Environment, Global Connections: Meet and network with students from around the world, expanding your international connections and cultural understanding.
- Cost-Effective Compared to the UK and the US: Tuition and living costs in Australia are generally lower than in the UK and the US. Additionally, the opportunity to work part-time helps reduce financial burdens, making studying abroad more accessible.
| Countries | Average tuition per week (AUD) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | $ 280 |
ELICOS courses include general English, academic English and exam preparation courses |
| England | $ 400 | Language school courses are usually offered at language centers and universities. Some cities may have higher fees due to demand and location |
| America | $ 420 | Primarily available at language centers and private schools, and the pricing can vary greatly depending on the institution and course duration |
| Canada | $ 350 | ESL (English as Second Language) course : basic classes and exam preparation courses |
| New Zealand | $ 300 | Similar to Australia, tuition fees tend to be higher in some regions |
III.Introduction to ELICOS course types
ELICOS courses in Australia are designed to be flexible to suit each student’s learning goals and English level. Below are the four most popular course types, each with its own teaching focus and suitable for different needs:
General English（GE）
Suitable for beginners or those who want to improve their overall English skills in daily communication. The course focuses on listening, speaking, reading, writing, and pronunciation, helping students confidently use English in life and work.
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EAP（English for Academic Purposes）
EAP is suitable for students preparing to enter college, university or postgraduate study in Australia. The program focuses on developing skills in essay writing, presentation, academic reading and critical thinking – essential skills in a higher education environment. Many Australian higher education institutions accept the results of completing the EAP course as proof of English proficiency for entry, eliminating the need for students to take the IELTS test. Therefore, EAP has become the first choice for those planning to study further in Australia.
Examination Preparation
This is a group of courses for students who are preparing to take international English exams such as IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge. The teaching content includes practicing test-taking skills, familiarizing with the test structure, practicing simulation tests, time management and building effective answering strategies.
This course is especially suitable for those who aim to apply for a visa to settle down, study abroad, or need an English certificate to apply for a job. The program will support students to achieve the desired score and pass the language requirements smoothly.
English for Specific Purpose（ESP）
ESP are English courses designed specifically for professional fields such as coffee making, tourism, design, business, customer service, etc. The curriculum is highly practical, combined with simulations of communication situations in real working environments, helping students quickly master specialized vocabulary and communication skills at work.
The course is often organized in the form of small classes, suitable for students with a clear career orientation or working people who want to improve their ability to use specialized English in their field.
💡 Study Tip: Many students often start with the General English (GE) course to build a solid foundation, and once their proficiency improves, they transition to EAP (English for Academic Purposes) or exam preparation courses. Some language schools even offer a combined program, "GE + EAP", which allows you to reinforce basic knowledge while preparing for higher-level studies—saving time and optimizing learning efficiency!
IV. Compare tuition fees for English courses in Australia: Analysis of costs and start times
| Courses | Average tuition fee/week (AUD) | Note | Opening time |
|---|---|---|---|
| General English | ~$200 - 350 | Most popular course, flexible entry | Every week |
| International certificate english exam preparation | ~$250 - 350 | Includes practice tests and test-taking skills | Every month |
| EAP | ~$250 - 450 | Suitable for students planning to study at university level | Every month |
| ESP | ~$250 - 350 | Tuition fees depend on the major and school. | Every month |
💡 Note: Tuition fees may vary depending on the school, city, and course duration. If you register for a long-term course, you will often receive discounted tuition fees!
V. How to apply to study English in Australia: Instructions on the process and documents needed
Registering for an English course in Australia is not complicated at all! Just follow these 5 simple steps, and you can easily begin your study abroad journey!
STEP 1: Consult with an Expert – Choose the Right School for Your Needs
First, you should talk to a consultant to share your study goals, budget, expected timeframe, and preferred city (Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are the most popular choices). When choosing a school, consider factors such as the city, type of course, study duration, teaching style, and flexibility.
Each school offers different programs – some divide classes by proficiency level, while others allow students to select elective classes or courses by topic. Tuition fees are also an important factor: currently, English courses range from 200 to 500 AUD per week. Be sure to research multiple schools to find the one that best fits your needs.
STEP 2: Take the English Placement Test
After selecting the school, the consultant will help you register for the school’s English placement test (usually conducted online). The results will determine your current English proficiency level and help the school suggest the most suitable class and the number of weeks needed for your studies.
STEP 3: Prepare Your Admission Documents
Once your English proficiency level is determined, you can begin preparing your documents. Usually, you will only need to provide a copy of your passport and some basic personal information. The consultant will help you submit your application. After the application is reviewed, the school will send you an Offer Letter to confirm your eligibility for enrollment.
STEP 4: Pay Tuition Fees & Submit Visa Application
After receiving the Offer Letter, you will need to pay the first-term tuition fees. The school will then issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE), an official document confirming your enrollment, allowing you to begin the process of applying for a student visa to Australia.
The consultant will assist you throughout the entire process for free: completing the visa application, writing the Genuine Student Statement, scheduling a medical examination, and purchasing OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for international students.
STEP 5: Wait for the Visa and Prepare to Depart!
After completing all the procedures, you just need to wait for the visa outcome – processing times typically range from 1 to 4 weeks. Once the visa is granted, you can book your flight, find accommodation, and prepare your luggage. Your study and experience journey in Australia officially begins!
VI. Conclusion: Choosing the right school opens up your English journey in Australia
Whether you're preparing for studying abroad, traveling, working while vacationing, or simply aiming to improve your English, the ELICOS program in Australia is a worthwhile investment. It’s not only an opportunity to enhance your language skills but also a gateway to explore the world and broaden your perspective on life.
With flexible study programs, diverse options, and the added benefit of legal work rights through the student visa, you can both study and fully experience life in Australia. Don’t let the language barrier stop you from pursuing your dreams – make English your “passport” to international opportunities!
Not sure which course to choose? Unsure which school fits you best?
Don’t hesitate to contact our expert consultants – we offer free support to analyze your needs, suggest the right program, and accompany you on your study journey in Australia!
