GS AUSTRALIA SPECIAL - In association with IDP Education

Learning English in Australia is an exciting, multicultural experience. It's the perfect place to study English for any purpose - education, career or travel

International students are increasingly choosing Australia as a destination to learn English because of the high standard of programs on offer. An additional benefit is that English is Australia's primary language, which means you have wide-ranging opportunities to apply your new language skills in 'real life' situations. English is also the language of global communication, so superior language skills may further your career opportunities.

English language courses in Australia are often called 'ELICOS', which stands for English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students. In addition to privately owned ELICOS colleges, many universities have ELICOS centres on campus.

An English language course has many benefits for international students from countries where English is a second language. You may need to improve your English skills to meet entrance requirements at universities, vocational institutes or schools or you may want to expand your possibilities in your career.

Some English language courses have no entry requirements and are available throughout the year. Their length varies from two weeks to one year, and fees range from AUD$240 to AUD$17,000. 

TYPES OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSES: 

General English
General English programs give you basic language skills for speaking, listening, reading and writing. These skills are useful in a range of everyday situations and are offered at a variety of levels. Courses can be as short as two weeks or as long as a year. 

English for Academic Purposes
English for Academic Purposes programs give you the language skills you need to succeed in any level of academic study in Australia, such as school, foundation studies, vocational courses and university. These courses teach you about the Australian academic style and give you skills in research, critical thinking, essay writing, tutorial participation and seminar presentation. 

Exam Preparation
Exam Preparation programs equip you to be successful in English language tests, including the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). These programs include practice test sessions. 

English for Business Purposes
English for Business Purposes programs help you develop communication skills for the business world. Courses focus on business terminology and develop skills for listening and reading in business contexts, cross-cultural awareness and writing business communications. These programs are popular for students in the business, science, secretarial, medical and computing fields. 

English and Work Experience
A small number of institutions offer English and Work Experience programs. These combine general English study with placement in an area of interest. Some institutions also offer internships in fields such as childcare, nursing and information technology. 

English Teacher Training
English Teacher Training programs are suitable for people who want to teach English in their own countries. Courses cover the theories, methods and skills needed to teach English. 

English for Hospitality and Tourism
English for Hospitality and Tourism courses prepare students for work or further study in the hospitality and tourism industries. Some institutions have significant practical components, which help students learn specific language skills and terminology used in the workplace. 

English for Other Specific Purposes
Many English language courses cater for students who wish to develop communication skills in a specific subject area or industry.

Vacation courses
Vacation courses (also called study tours) are designed for people who want to improve their English while learning about Australian culture and exploring the Australian landscape. 

Article contributed by IDP Education Pty Ltd 

Image copyright: Tourism Australia