Foreign students wanting to study in English-speaking countries are continually on the rise. As a result, there are some English language courses in Australia for international students when considering to study there. English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) are not just in Australia but rather internationally recognised. Students often come to Australia with the intention of completing their studies there, not just for English courses, but for its high-quality university education.

There are many English language courses to measure international students’ English language proficiency. Here is a list to help you out:

1. TOEFL

Almost all Australian universities accept TOEFL scores, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Check your university’s website first and see if they have TOEFL listed as one of their accepted English proficiency tests and also double check their required scores to know what are you aiming for. Bear in mind that each university, and each major, has its own score requirements. TOEFL has 4 parts: listening, speaking, reading and writing. It is advised to practice demo tests online before going for the actual exam. It is one of the best short-term English courses in Australia. 

Some of the major Australian universities that accept TOEFL are the University of Queensland, University of New South Wales, and the University of Western Australia.

2. IELTS

It is one of the most accredited tests of English in the whole world. Other than helping with your Australian student visa, IELTS helps with your entry into universities, colleges and other tertiary institutions. To know the studying in Australia IELTS requirements, get in touch with an educational counsellor or surf your university’s website for more information. Like TOEFL, IELTS score requirements differ from one place to another.

Some of the major Australian universities that accept IELTS are the University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Australian National University, University of Queensland, and Monash University.

3. C1 Advanced

Formerly known as Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE). Global educational institutions, businesses and government departments accept this certificate as a proof of English language competency. Preparing for C1 Advanced is more than enough to get you ready for living in an English-speaking country. It enables students to learn through audio, DVD, writing, presentations, discussions, and pre-tests. CAE online preparation courses are also essential in the process of C1 Advanced studying. Students mostly go for it as it is accepted by the Australian Government for Migration purposes as well as Australian universities.

Some of the major Australian universities that accept CAE are Bond University, Victoria University Melbourne and the University of South Australia.

4. Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE)

This one is limited to Victoria, so it is common sense to figure that all Victoria universities abide by that system. Nevertheless, double-check with your university if they accept any other courses alongside VCE.

How VCE Works?

You get to choose from 90 different subjects or more to decide on your future education preferences. It is in units system: each subject has 4 units and on average, students finish 20-24 in 2 years. Your VCE results will get to you as an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) and as your ATAR gets higher, your chances of going to a top Australian university will too. Your subjects are completely your decision, so choose wisely, as your future literally depends on it.

5. Pearson Test of English

Also referred to as PTE Academic. It is accepted by all Australian universities, professional associations and government departments as proof of English language proficiency. Australian visa applicants also go for PTE as it is accepted by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) for all visa categories.

Have you taken any of these courses? Share with us your experiences.