Language Courses in Australia
Learn English and experience the Australian lifestyle.
English language courses in Australia
Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international language students. English is spoken in everyday life, and the country offers a unique mix of modern lifestyle, cultural diversity and stunning natural landscapes. Studying English in Australia combines intensive learning with the relaxed and vibrant Australian way of life.
What types of language courses are available?
An English course in Australia can be much more than classroom learning – it can be the key to new opportunities. Whether you want to improve your everyday communication skills, prepare for university studies or meet professional language requirements, each course type has its own focus. Choosing the right program determines which doors open afterwards – whether in further studies, your career or on the path to a longer stay in Australia.
English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)
Most English programs offered to international students in Australia are English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students, known as ELICOS. These courses can only be delivered by accredited providers and must meet strict, government-regulated quality standards regarding teaching, facilities and teacher qualifications.
This high level of regulation and oversight makes Australia one of the most attractive English-speaking destinations for language study.
General English Course
Overview
General English is the most flexible course type and is designed for learners of all proficiency levels. The focus is on improving all core language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. In addition to building vocabulary and grammar, the language is applied in practical, real-life activities such as discussions, role-plays and projects. Many schools also integrate cultural activities to help students connect the language with everyday life in Australia.
General English
Target Group & Benefits
General English is suitable for anyone wishing to improve their English skills for everyday life, travel or work – without a specific exam or academic focus.
Benefits include:
- Practical language use for everyday situations and fast progress
- Flexible entry levels, from beginner to advanced
- An ideal foundation for further English courses
- Course duration is usually flexible and can be chosen as needed – from a few weeks to several months. Start dates are typically weekly or monthly.
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
Overview
English for Academic Purposes prepares students specifically for university or vocational studies in English-speaking countries. The course covers academic writing, analysing scholarly texts, referencing, presentation techniques, and critical thinking. Participants also learn to understand lectures, take part in seminars, and work independently on research assignments.
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
Target Group & Benefits
EAP is ideal for students aiming to begin studies in Australia or another English-speaking country.
- Meets the English-language requirements of many universities
- Builds advanced academic language skills
- Comprehensive preparation for written and oral coursework
- Course duration is usually flexible and can be tailored to individual needs – from a few weeks to several months. Intakes are typically monthly.
IELTS Preparation
Overview
IELTS Preparation is an intensive course designed to prepare students for the internationally recognised IELTS test (International English Language Testing System). This test is one of the most widely used English exams for Australian visa and skills-assessment procedures, and is therefore especially relevant for anyone planning to pursue an Australian skilled migration pathway.
The course provides comprehensive training in all four test components — Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Special emphasis is placed on exam techniques, time management, and strategies for successfully completing each section of the test. Regular mock exams simulate real testing conditions and provide valuable feedback.
IELTS Preparation
Target Group & Benefits
The IELTS Preparation course is particularly suitable for anyone who aims to build a long-term future in Australia and needs an official English test result — for example, for a Skilled Visa, a skills assessment or admission to a study program.
Benefits include:
- Worldwide recognised proof of English proficiency
- Tailored to visa and university requirements
- Focused strategies and intensive exam simulations
- Course duration is generally flexible and can be adjusted based on individual needs and starting English level. New courses usually commence monthly.
OET Preparation
Overview
The Occupational English Test (OET) is designed for healthcare professionals, and the OET Preparation course offers targeted training for this exam.
The OET is accepted for Australian visa and skills-assessment procedures in the medical and health professions, making it particularly relevant for anyone aiming for an Australian Skilled Visa. The course combines language training with practical, healthcare-related scenarios from clinical, nursing and therapeutic settings. In addition to medical vocabulary, participants develop skills in communicating with patients and colleagues, understanding medical documentation, and writing clinical reports. Mock exams simulate real test conditions and prepare students for the exam requirements.
OET Preparation
Target Group & Benefits
The OET Preparation course is ideal for healthcare professionals who want to work in Australia or another English-speaking country and need a recognised language certificate. It is especially relevant for those pursuing a Skilled Visa or skills assessment in the health sector.
- Sector-specific English for healthcare professions
- Practice-based scenarios from clinical, nursing and therapeutic contexts
- Recognised certification for professional registration and visa applications
- Course duration is generally flexible and can be chosen according to individual needs and language level. Start dates are usually offered monthly.
Specialised programmes
Overview
Special courses combine language training with personal interests or industry-specific topics. Examples include Business English for international communication, English & Surfing, English & Yoga or English for Hospitality and Tourism. These programs allow students to develop their language skills within a specific context while pursuing individual interests.
Special courses
Target Group & Benefits
These courses are ideal for learners who want to apply English in practical, specialised areas or who wish to combine a personal interest with a language course.
- Combination of language training and individual interests
- Practice-oriented focus on specific industries or topics
- High motivation through varied and engaging content
- The course duration depends on the structure of the program. Generally, multi-week courses with fixed start dates are offered.
Which visa do you need for an English course in Australia?
The visa options for an English course in Australia depend primarily on the type and duration of the chosen course, as well as whether you plan to work during your stay. In general, there are three main visa categories, each offering different possibilities:
eVisitor / Visitor Visa
- Low costs
-
Ideal for holidays or
educational leave
- No work rights
-
Only short
stays permitted
Working Holiday Visa
- Full work rights
-
Combines travel,
work and study
- Only available to eligibile nationalities
- Age restrictions apply
Student Visa
- Part-time work rights
-
Allows longer stays
in Australia
- Higher costs
- More detailed application process
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