Cheapest English courses in Australia for international students is one of those topics that comes up a lot. Many students need to improve their English before starting their main course, or they want to study English while in Australia. The information online is often vague or doesn’t give specific numbers. I needed real data on which English courses are actually affordable.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve watched friends do English courses, and I’ve seen how costs vary. Some found affordable options and improved their English. Others paid more than they needed to. The difference was research and knowing where to look.
So here’s everything I know about the cheapest English courses in Australia for international students, with real numbers and honest advice.
The Reality Check First
Let me start with this, because I wish someone had told me: English courses aren’t cheap, but some are more affordable than others.
English courses usually cost $200 to $400 per week, depending on the course type, intensity, and institution. Over a 10 week course, that’s $2,000 to $4,000. Over a 20 week course, that’s $4,000 to $8,000.
Living costs are the same regardless of where you study. You still need to cover rent, food, transport, and other expenses.
So a 10 week English course might cost $7,000 to $12,000 total including living costs. A 20 week course might cost $14,000 to $22,000 total.
This is expensive, but it’s usually shorter than degree courses, so total costs are lower.
Types of English Courses
This is important, because different types cost different amounts.
General English courses are usually cheaper. They’re less intensive and cover general English skills. They usually cost $200 to $300 per week.
Academic English courses are usually more expensive. They’re more intensive and prepare you for academic study. They usually cost $300 to $400 per week.
IELTS preparation courses vary. Some are expensive, some are affordable. They usually cost $250 to $350 per week.
But here’s what I’ve learned: don’t choose based on cost alone. Choose based on what you need. If you need academic English, a general English course won’t help. If you just need to improve your English, a general course might be enough.
Where to Find Cheaper Options
This is the key question, and here’s where to look.
TAFE institutes often offer English courses, and they’re usually cheaper than private language schools. They’re government funded, so fees are lower.
Some universities offer English courses, and they’re sometimes cheaper than private schools. But they’re not always the cheapest option.
Private language schools vary widely. Some are expensive. Others are more affordable. You need to research specific schools.
But here’s what to watch for: cheaper doesn’t always mean better value. Consider what you’re getting for the price. A slightly more expensive course might be better value if it’s more effective.
Location Matters
This is important, because location affects both course fees and living costs.
English courses in capital cities are usually more expensive. Course fees are higher, and living costs are higher. But there are usually more options.
English courses in regional areas are usually cheaper. Course fees are lower, and living costs are lower. But there are usually fewer options.
The difference can be significant. A 20 week course in a regional area might cost $3,000 to $5,000 less than the same course in a capital city.
But here’s the trade off: regional areas have fewer job opportunities. If you need to work part time, capital cities usually have more opportunities.
I’ve written about study in regional Australia to save money if you want more detail.
How to Actually Compare Costs
Don’t just compare course fees. Compare total costs: course fees plus living costs plus other expenses.
Use official websites to find exact course fees. Don’t trust third party websites or agents without verifying.
Check living cost estimates, but add 20% to be safe. Language schools often underestimate living costs.
Talk to current students about real costs. They’ll tell you what actually costs money that you might not expect.
Consider the full course, not just one week. A $50 difference per week is $1,000 over 20 weeks. That’s significant.
Think about effectiveness. A cheaper course that doesn’t improve your English isn’t good value. Consider how effective the course is, not just how much it costs.
I’ve written about how to compare course fees in Australia if you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are English courses necessary?
It depends on your English level and goals. If your English is already good enough for your main course, you might not need an English course. If your English needs improvement, an English course can help.
Can I work while studying English?
Yes, the same work rights apply. You can work 48 hours per fortnight during semester, and unlimited hours during breaks. But English courses are often intensive, so balancing work and study can be challenging.
How long do English courses take?
It depends on your starting level and goals. Some students do 10 week courses. Others do 20 week courses or longer. Check with language schools for their recommendations.
Are cheaper English courses worse quality?
Not necessarily. Some cheaper courses are excellent. The price difference is often about location and overheads, not teaching quality. But do your research. Check reviews and talk to current students.
Should I do an English course before my main course?
It depends on your English level. If your English meets the requirements for your main course, you might not need an English course. If it doesn’t, an English course can help you meet the requirements.
Can I get PR with an English course?
Usually no. English courses alone don’t give you points for skilled migration. You’ll need a main course or qualification for PR. But improving your English can help with PR requirements.
Final Thoughts
Finding the cheapest English courses in Australia isn’t just about course fees. It’s about total costs: course fees, living costs, and other expenses. And it’s about value: whether the course will actually improve your English.
Don’t choose based on cost alone. But don’t ignore cost either. Be realistic about what you can afford, and research what you’re getting for the price.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Research matters. Don’t assume all English courses cost the same. Research different options and compare them. You might find affordable options that work for you.
If you’re still planning your study journey, check out my guides on cheapest courses in Australia by city and how to find budget friendly courses. And if you’re considering English courses, research specific schools, check reviews, and talk to current students. They’ll give you the real story that marketing materials won’t.