Everything You Need to Know about ELICOS Course Australia

Australia is known for its advanced, high quality education system, attracting students from all around the world. Many come to study English in Australia for professional reasons, personal growth, or even to enhance their travel experiences. Others are preparing for further studies and need to build strong language skills before enrolling in a degree program.

This is where ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) plays a key role. These English language courses in Australia are designed to help non-native English speakers strengthen their language skills so they can succeed academically, professionally, and socially in Australia. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ELICOS course Australia, including what they offer, the benefits, costs, and how to get started.

What is an ELICOS Course in Australia?

ELICOS stands for English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students, a program designed for international students who need English language preparation before starting formal studies in Australia. Through ELICOS, students become immersed in English language and culture, developing the proficiency required for academic success. Unlike other English language programs, ELICOS is specially tailored for students on a student visa (Subclass 500), making it a key pathway for those aiming to pursue further education in Australia.

The Purpose 

The main purpose of ELICOS is to help students to study in English Australia, improve their English skills to meet the entry requirements for vocational or higher education programs in Australia. These courses focus on developing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, ensuring students are prepared to participate fully in academic life. ELICOS course Australia also helps individuals seeking employment in English-speaking environments by enhancing their language capabilities for professional purposes. The program is a gateway to numerous educational and career opportunities, offering a solid foundation for future success.

Further Studies and Employment

ELICOS courses are tailored to cater to students’ unique needs, whether they are pursuing academic programs or seeking professional opportunities. For those entering universities, ELICOS provides English for Academic Purposes (EAP), which focuses on the critical language skills required for essay writing, research, presentations, and classroom discussions. For professionals, the courses offer targeted training in business communication, helping students excel in interviews and workplace scenarios.

Why Choose ELICOS in Australia?

ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) stands out from other English-language programs because the Australian Government offers a special student visa for those enrolling in these courses. This makes ELICOS an ideal choice if you’re looking to improve your English while studying in Australia.

Completing an ELICOS course can be the first step toward entering formal academic programs in Australia, but it’s also a great option if you simply want to enhance your language skills. Once you’ve reached the required English level through ELICOS, you’ll have the flexibility to choose your next path, whether that’s pursuing further studies or reaping the benefits of your improved English skills.

Another advantage of ELICOS for international students is that you can work part-time while studying on the ELICOS Visa (Subclass 570), helping you cover your course fees and living expenses. Plus, studying in Australia opens the door to meeting new people, making connections, and exploring a vibrant new culture, all while improving your English in a supportive environment.

With English language courses in Australia being recognized worldwide, they provide a solid foundation for further education or new career opportunities, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their English in Australia.

Types of ELICOS Courses Available in Australia

ELICOS course in Australia offer a wide range of options, each tailored to meet different language goals depending on the student’s purpose. Below is an overview of the most common types of English courses available through ELICOS, designed to suit various needs:

1. General English (GE): General English focuses on helping students improve their day-to-day communication skills. This course is ideal for those who want to strengthen their English for practical use, such as speaking, listening, reading, and writing. It’s perfect for students looking to enhance their basic language abilities for use in everyday situations.
2. English for Academic Purposes (EAP): For students who plan to continue their education in Australian universities or vocational colleges, EAP provides the essential skills needed to succeed in higher education. The course includes academic writing, presentations, research, and other vital skills. It’s often a stepping stone to degree programs, helping students meet university entry requirements.
3. English for Specific Purposes (ESP): ESP is tailored for students who need industry-specific English, such as for hospitality, healthcare, business, or engineering. These courses focus on the language skills necessary to communicate effectively within specialized fields, preparing students for professional roles where English is a key component.
4. English for IELTS Preparation: This course is designed for students preparing to take the IELTS exam, which is often a requirement for university entry or visa applications. The program focuses on helping students achieve their desired IELTS scores, supporting them in gaining entry to academic programs or securing permanent residency in Australia.
5. English for Cambridge Exams: Students aiming to take internationally recognized Cambridge exams (such as the First Certificate in English or Cambridge Advanced) can benefit from this course. It equips them with the necessary skills to succeed in these exams, which are highly valued by employers and educational institutions worldwide for demonstrating English proficiency.

Besides, the study English in Australia program offers a unique blend of English language training and cultural experiences. These programs are ideal for students looking to immerse themselves in Australian culture while improving their English skills. Additionally, other specialized programs focus on areas like business English or teaching English as a second language, providing targeted learning experiences based on the student’s needs.

Here is a brief on suitable ELICOS course for students according to their goal:

Requirements to Enroll 

To enroll in an ELICOS course Australia, students usually need to be at least 16 years old.  The academic requirements can vary depending on the institution and course level, but in general, students should have completed their secondary education.

Most students will also need to show proof of basic English proficiency, which can be demonstrated through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. If students have lower scores, they will typically be placed in English language courses Australia to build their skills. Those with higher scores may be able to start in more advanced courses, like English for Academic Purposes (EAP) or English for Specific Purposes (ESP).

In addition to meeting age and language requirements, students must hold a valid student visa (Subclass 500) or another visa that allows them to study English in Australia. Some programs may also ask for extra documents, such as academic transcripts or letters of intent, to assess the student’s background and goals. This ensures that students are placed in the right course for their needs and can make the most of their ELICOS for international students experience.

Who Can Apply for an ELICOS Course?

ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) is designed for anyone who wants to improve their English, especially international students or professionals looking to meet specific English language requirements. Here’s a breakdown of who can benefit:

1. Students Planning to Study in Australia
   If you’re an international student aiming to study at an Australian university or vocational college, ELICOS helps you meet the English language standards required for admission. It’s a stepping stone toward higher education in Australia.
2. Professionals Seeking Career Advancement
   If you’re a professional looking to work in an English-speaking environment or advance your career, ELICOS courses—especially industry-specific ones—can boost your language skills, helping you thrive in international workplaces.
3. Anyone Looking to Improve Their English Skills
   Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone wanting to improve your English, ELICOS courses are flexible. They offer the opportunity to learn at your own pace, with course durations ranging from 1 to 20 weeks, making them accessible to a wide variety of learners.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of your ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) program in Australia depends on the institution, the type of course, and how long you plan to study. For example, an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course can last anywhere from 5 to 52 weeks. A 10-week course typically costs around AU$ 2,000, while a 30-week course can cost about AU$ 5,800. The price of a General English course Australia for 10 weeks usually ranges between AU$ 3,000 to AU$ 5,000, and specialized courses like IELTS preparation may cost a bit more. It’s important to choose a course duration that balances your learning goals and budget.

Aside from tuition, you’ll also need to factor in additional expenses such as study materials, books, accommodation, and daily living costs. On average, living in Australia can cost between AU$ 1,500 to AU$ 2,500 per month, depending on the city and your lifestyle. Some institutions offer scholarships or financial aid for international students, so be sure to check for available funding opportunities. On average, the annual cost of living in Australia is around AU$ 26,832, so it’s essential to plan accordingly for both your course and living expenses.

A detailed cost breakdown for studying and living in Australia is outlined below-

Advantages 

Enrolling in an ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) course offers a range of benefits for international students. These English language courses in Australia are designed to help you quickly improve your English skills, from speaking to writing, all while being taught by qualified teachers in accredited institutions. The small class sizes ensure you get the personalized attention needed for effective learning. As your language skills develop, you’ll find it easier to succeed in academic studies, meet the requirements of universities, and even enhance your chances of finding better job opportunities in English-speaking environments.

Beyond academics, studying ELICOS in Australia allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture, adapting to a new way of life while practicing your English in real-world settings. These courses often help students meet visa requirements and open pathways to further education in Australia. Plus, the diverse classroom environment offers the chance to build a global network, making new connections with people who share the same goal of mastering the English language.

Which Visa to Apply for?

If you’re planning to study an ELICOS course Australia, here are the visa options to consider:

• ELICOS Visa (Subclass 570)
  Although the Independent ELICOS Sector Visa (Subclass 570) closed for new applications on 1 July 2016, existing visa holders or those who applied before the deadline may still study in Australia. With this visa, you can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your dependent family members can also accompany you to Australia and have work and study rights under specific conditions. However, to extend your stay in Australia or switch to a new course, you must apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500).

• Student Visa (Subclass 500)
  The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the most popular choice for students enrolling in ELICOS. It allows you to study full-time and work part-time while you’re in Australia, giving you flexibility to earn while you learn.

• Other Visa Options
  If you’re not looking for a full-time study commitment, you can still take ELICOS courses on other visas. With a visitor visa, you can study for up to 13 weeks, while a working holiday visa lets you take ELICOS courses for up to 17 weeks.

To apply for your visa, you’ll need to submit proof of your enrollment in an ELICOS course, meet health and financial requirements, and ensure you have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Each of these visa options (available) gives you the chance to experience Australia while improving your English skills through ELICOS courses.

Course Duration and ELICOS Providers in Australia

ELICOS courses offer flexible durations to suit different needs, ranging from short-term options like 5 to 10-week IELTS preparation courses to long-term programs like General English, which can last up to a year. The length of the course depends on your language proficiency and goals, allowing students to choose the pace that works best for them.

Choose the Right ELICOS Provider

Australia offers a wide range of ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) providers, including universities, TAFE institutes, and private colleges. When selecting an ELICOS provider, it’s important to focus on factors such as CRICOS accreditation, course costs, location, and the level of student support offered. Choosing a CRICOS-registered provider ensures that the courses meet national standards for international students, guaranteeing a quality education experience.

Langford English College is a highly recognized ELICOS provider, specializing in English language programs for international students. The college caters to learners from countries like North America, Japan, Korea, and Brazil, helping them improve their English to meet the requirements for further education or career advancement in Australia. ELICOS courses at Langford serve as a crucial step for many international students, as they lay the foundation needed to succeed academically and professionally in an English-speaking environment.

What sets Langford English College apart is its commitment to creating a supportive, multicultural community where students from diverse backgrounds can grow both personally and professionally. The college provides a welcoming atmosphere that helps international students adapt to life in Australia, offering more than just language lessons. By fostering this positive environment, Langford ensures that students not only improve their English skills but also prepare for successful integration into Australian society.

A key feature of Langford English College is its friendly and interactive learning environment. The college provides personalized progress reports to track each student’s development, making sure they stay on track to meet their goals. With a focus on interactive learning methods, Langford makes the educational experience both enjoyable and effective, boosting students’ confidence in their language abilities.

Langford English College offers a General English course, which is available for students of varying proficiency levels. The course covers essential English skills such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Langford’s flexible schedule accommodates both onshore and offshore students, with campuses in Melbourne and the Gold Coast, allowing students to transfer between locations if needed.

Beyond language training, Langford English College serves as a pathway to further education in Australia. Its partnership with Melbourne Metropolitan College provides students with a smooth transition to vocational or higher education institutions. 

ELICOS is a vital pathway for anyone aiming to boost their English skills and succeed in Australia’s academic or professional world. It’s not just for students on visas, tourists can also join shorter ELICOS courses, making it accessible to many. With options ranging from General to Academic English, ELICOS helps students meet the language requirements for further study or career growth.

Langford English College is a leading ELICOS provider, offering flexible, interactive courses for students and immigrants alike. For those looking to study English in Australia and open doors to new opportunities, check out Langford’s website or visit their office to get started.