English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) are designed to help international students improve their English proficiency before entering mainstream academic courses in Australian universities or other institutions. ELICOS courses are offered by many language schools and institutions in Australia, and students around the world highly regard them for their high-quality teaching, advanced curriculum, and excellent learning environment. This essay will discuss all of ELICOS, including its history, types of courses, eligibility requirements, admission process, top institutions, and career opportunities.
History of ELICOS in Australia:
The development of ELICOS in Australia dates back to the 1950s when the first English language courses were offered to international students. Over time, as the number of overseas students increased, the Australian government introduced strict regulations to ensure the quality of ELICOS courses. Today, ELICOS courses in Australia are of the highest quality and are known for their excellence in English language teaching.
Types of ELICOS courses:
ELICOS courses in Australia are available for different levels of English proficiency, from beginner to advanced. They are also designed for other purposes, such as academic preparation, business, tourism, or personal development. Some of the most popular types of ELICOS courses include:
- General English: This course is designed for students who want to improve their English language skills for personal, academic, or professional purposes. It covers all aspects of the English language, including grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
- Academic English: This course is designed for students who plan to study at an Australian university or other institution. It focuses on academic language and study skills, such as note-taking, critical thinking, academic writing, and research skills.
- Business English: This course is designed for students who plan to work in a business environment. It covers business-related language and communication skills, such as negotiating, presenting, report writing, and business etiquette.
- Exam Preparation: This course is designed for students who plan to take an English language exam, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English. It covers exam strategies, practice tests, and student performance feedback.
Eligibility requirements:
The eligibility requirements for ELICOS courses vary depending on the institution and the course level. Generally, students must understand English language skills, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students who want to take advanced or academic English courses may be required to have a minimum IELTS score or other English proficiency test scores.
Admission process:
The admission process for ELICOS courses in Australia is simple. Students can apply directly to the language school or institution they wish to attend. The application process typically involves filling out an online or paper application form, providing evidence of English language proficiency, and paying the application fee.
Top institutions for ELICOS courses:
Australia has many language schools and institutions that offer ELICOS courses. Some of the most prominent institutions include:
- The University of Sydney Centre for English Teaching
- University of Melbourne English Language Institute
- UNSW Institute of Languages
- Navitas English
- Hawthorn-Melbourne English Language Centre
Career opportunities:
Studying ELICOS courses in Australia can lead to many career opportunities. Firstly, students taking ELICOS courses in Australia can improve their English language proficiency, a valuable skill in the global job market. This can make them more competitive when applying for jobs in their home country or international organizations. Secondly, students taking academic or business English courses can improve their communication and critical thinking skills, which are essential for success in any field.
ELICOS courses offer a pathway for international students to gain proficiency in the English language, which is essential for academic, employment, and social integration in Australia. This section will discuss some of the top ELICOS courses in Australia, including their curriculum, duration, cost, and entry requirements.
The University of Sydney Centre for English Teaching (CET)
The University of Sydney CET offers a range of ELICOS courses for international students, including General English, Academic English, and IELTS Preparation. The duration of the courses varies from 10 to 20 weeks, depending on the program. The courses are designed to enhance students' language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, focusing on academic and professional contexts. The course fees range from AUD 390 to AUD 660 per week.
University of Melbourne English Language Centre (ELC)
The University of Melbourne ELC offers ELICOS courses for international students, including General English, Academic English, and English for Specific Purposes. The courses help students improve their academic, social, and professional language proficiency. The duration of the courses ranges from 5 to 50 weeks, depending on the program. The course fees range from AUD 385 to AUD 950 per week.
UNSW Institute of Languages (UNSWIL)
The UNSWIL offers ELICOS courses for international students, including General English, Academic English, and IELTS Preparation. The courses are designed to help students develop their language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, focusing on academic and professional contexts. The duration of the courses ranges from 5 to 20 weeks, depending on the program. Course fees range from AUD 390 to AUD 600 per week.
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) International College
QUT International College offers ELICOS courses for international students, including General English, Academic English, and IELTS Preparation. The courses are designed to improve students' language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, focusing on academic and professional contexts. The duration of the courses ranges from 5 to 20 weeks, depending on the program. Course fees range from AUD 325 to AUD 550 per week.
Curtin English Language Centre
The Curtin English Language Centre offers ELICOS courses for international students, including General English, Academic English, and IELTS Preparation. The courses are designed to help students develop their language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, focusing on academic and professional contexts. The duration of the courses ranges from 5 to 20 weeks, depending on the program. The course fees range from AUD 345 to AUD 495 per week.
Entry Requirements for ELICOS Courses
The entry requirements for ELICOS courses in Australia vary depending on the program and institution. Generally, students are required to have a minimum level of English proficiency to enroll in ELICOS courses. The minimum requirement is an IELTS score of 4.5 or equivalent, but some courses may require a higher score, such as 5.5 or 6.0.
The entry requirements for ELICOS courses may include academic qualifications, such as a high school diploma or equivalent, and a valid student visa. International students who are already in Australia on a student visa may be able to transfer to an ELICOS course without applying for a new visa.
If you're an international student looking to study in Australia, taking an ELICOS course can be an excellent way to improve your English and get the most out of your time here. Whether you want to improve your language skills for academic or professional purposes, ELICOS courses can help you achieve your goals. With a wide range of courses on offer, there is sure to be an ELICOS course that's right for you.
