If you are studying General English, you join a class in one of six English Levels, from “Beginner” to “Advanced”.  As your English improves, you move to a higher level.  On average, it takes 10-12 weeks of full time study to progress from one English level to the next.

Classes are 5 hours per day, from Monday to Friday (25 hours per week). Classes commence at 9am and finish at 3.30pm each day, with 30 minutes for a morning break and one hour for lunch. You are required to attend all classes during your course and keep your absences to a minimum.

Student Assessment

On your first day, you will be interviewed to determine your study aims and goal.  Your progress towards these will be assessed throughout the course. Assessment is by way of regular tests, homework and assignments.  Your performance in the regular tests will determine how quickly you move up through the various class levels.

Students who are making slow progress will be given special help and advice on how to improve their learning. There will also be opportunities to do extra study and practice tests in their own time.

Lunch Break

Because ALS is in the centre of the city, you can buy lunch at one of the many take-away food shops and restaurants nearby, or prepare your own food in our student kitchen and common area.

Attendance

If you are studying on an Australian Student Visa, full-time attendance is a condition of your Visa.  You can also work part-time, up to 20 hours per week. This will help you with your living costs.  Many of our students are currently working part time in Brisbane.

Holidays 

It is not possible to take a holiday until the completion of your enrolled course. The College defines “course” as the initial period of enrolment.  If you extend your student visa, or obtain a new student visa, the Immigration Department may (at their discretion), approve a break before the commencement of your next course.

Student Grievance and Appeals Process

Like all CRICOS registered Colleges and Universities in Australia, ALS has an appeals and grievance process that is designed to protect your rights as an international student and visitor to our country.  This is one of the things that makes Australia different to many other study destinations.  If you are unhappy with the College's decision about your complaint or appeal, you have the right to appeal to an outside person, or the Queensland CRICOS Unit (Queensland Government Department of Education).  Regardless of the outcome of the College's grievance and appeals process, students still have the right to take legal action under Australia's Consumer Protection Laws.