The country

Australia has a population of over 20 million. 60% there of, are living in the six capital cities and approx. 1% are Aborigines. They live in the outback and some have been able to maintain their traditional life style, which existed long before the Western Culture did. The Aborigines have lived over 40'000 years on this continent and can be proud of their vast heritage of culture and folklore. Grasp the opportunity to get acquainted with this impressing culture with its earthy paintings on the ochre rocks and the spiritual sound of the Didgeridoos – it's well worth your while!
It is easy to get in touch with the local people. The Australians are very warm and friendly and have a special, but very pleasant way of life. You can enjoy the two extremes, the busy city life in one of the capital cities, and the peaceful, isolated life on a farm where you get to count the stars in the sky at night.
Besides the interesting cities which are described in more detail on the following pages, there is also the uniqueness of the «Outback». You will encounter breathtaking contrasts, ochre earth and rock formations and a wide variety of vegetation – experience the wilderness at its best. You can travel for days without encountering anybody – the country with 7,7 million square kilometers offers enough space for everybody. If you don't want to go by foot or on wheels to explore this country, you can travel on a camel– or horseback – in the tracks of Crocodile Dundee.

Down under

Australia – also known as «Down Under» has the exact opposite season to us. The smallest continent on the earth will dazzle you with its facinating animals, more varieties of vegetation then you can imagine, simply unique wildlife, exquisite beaches, rainforrests, immense prairies, and the grand 'Outback'. A Language stay in Australia broadens your horizon for a lifetime! Those who visit Australia, keep coming back: do yourself a favour, and don't miss the opportunity to get some "Aussie Fever".

The climate

Australia has different climatic zones:
In the south east (Melbourne/Tasmania to Sydney) there is a moderate climate, i.e. the winter in the mountains can be very cold and they receive some snow. From Adelaide (south) to Perth (west) the climate is mild and warm. It is very dry and very hot in the centre of Australia (Alice Springs/Ayers Rock). In the north (Darwin) to the north-east (Cairns) the climate is tropical to subtropical. You can find further details regarding the exact temperaturs on our Website.

Leisure activities

Go for a walk and take in the flora and fauna, go swimming, surfing, water skiiing, fishing, or just relax under the shade of a Peppermint Gum Tree and enjoy the sound of the Kookaburras and Cockatoos as they sing to you... the sport and leisure possibilities are endless in this country.

Schools

Australia has many excellent language schools with professional teachers. Besides the standard and intensive courses (general English courses) you have also the possibility to take preparation courses for the Cambridge examinations.
Australian English is grammatically based on the English from Great Britain.

Visa Information (valid for Swiss citizens only)

If you travel to Australia you do need a Visa. There are 3 different ones depending on the length of your complete stay and the length of your studies:
– up to 90 days in the country (course and trip)
for this you need a short term tourist visa – this will be issued from the office where you book your flight.
– over 90 days in the country and your course does not last longer than 12 weeks:
you need a long term tourist visa – has to be requested at the Embassy.
– your stay at the school is more than 12 weeks (course of more than 12 weeks):
you need a student visa – has to be requested at the Embassy.
For further information please consult the documentation you receive from us about the course.

OSHC (Health Insurance)

In order to obtain a Student Visa (Student Visa for a course lasting more than 12 weeks) you need an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This is a Health Insurance Policy that is absolutely compulsory for overseas–students in Australia. It enables you to receive the same health benefits as the Australian students. We will send you an invoice for the OSHC, and it will cost, depending on the length of your stay, between AUD$ 81.- and AUS$324.- (subject to change).

Under 18

If you are under the age of 18, then you are classified as a minor in Australia. This means that you require special supervision, which does cost some extra money. Please contact us for further information about these additional fees.