How to Choose the Right English Language School in Australia

With so many education providers offering such an array of English language courses in Australia, choosing the right English language school can feel a bit overwhelming.

So, how do you select the right one to suit your needs? Here, we look at just some of the ways to narrow down the options available and choose the right English language school for you…

Course type and structure

There are over 1000 English language courses available to study at English language schools right across Australia.

These courses cover different outcomes, with some focused on general English skills, while others might be geared towards academic English or the English that is required for specific industries.

Part of narrowing down the language school options involves defining the English outcome you hope to achieve and then finding the schools that offer that course.

Then it’s about determining whether the structure of the course suits your learning style and needs. For example, how long will the course take to complete? How many face-to-face hours does it involve?

In other words, will the structure of the course fit in with other commitments you may have as well as your personal learning style?

Location and facilities

With English language schools in cities and regional areas right across Australia, part of narrowing the search involves determining which location will suit you best.

Do you want to be in a bustling city such as Sydney or Melbourne? Or would you prefer a scenic tourism region such as the Whitsundays? Or will the location be dictated by other factors such as where you’ll be working for your Working Holiday Visa?

Once you’ve narrowed down the education providers based on course type and location, consider what sort of facilities they have, and what’s in the vicinity of the school?

For example, if you want to meet people, does the school have social clubs or campus gatherings? Is there student support available? What about an on-site gym, or other fitness activities?

And how is the school positioned when it comes to public transport? In other words, will it be easy for you to get to the school?

Reputation and expertise

While there are strict rules and accreditation criteria for all registered English language schools in Australia, some education providers are better than others.

That’s why it’s a good idea to seek out reviews and testimonials about the language schools you are considering. Often this is as easy as searching the education provider online and looking at the online reviews.

Meanwhile, do your research about the expertise of the institution, including the calibre of teaching staff and the course.

Cost and extras

Naturally, costs will likely also be a factor in the English language school you select. The reality is the cost of schools can vary depending on the type of institution (i.e university or language school), the length of the course, and its location.

As you compare costs, also factor in any extras that may be required such as books, materials, and more.

The final word

Selecting a language school is a big decision, and it’s an important one. That’s why it pays to take the time to do your research, while factoring in your budget, the location, course structure and more.

If you’re looking to get started in the search for an English language school that suits your needs, you can use our handy search tool here.