FAQs – High School Preparation Course (HSP)

The AIL High School Preparation (HSP) course (CRICOS 119396J) helps international students aged 12–17 build the academic English and study skills needed to enter and succeed in an Australian secondary school.

1. What is the AIL High School Preparation (HSP) course and who is it designed for?

The AIL High School Preparation (HSP) course is designed for international students aged 12 to 17 who plan to enter Australian secondary schools. The program helps students build English language proficiency, academic skills, classroom confidence, and readiness for mainstream schooling in Australia.

2. What are the key outcomes of completing the HSP program?

Students who complete the AIL High School Preparation course improve their academic English, study skills, critical thinking, and confidence across subjects such as Mathematics, Science, and Humanities. The program prepares students to enter Australian secondary schools and adapt to the local education system.

3. How long does the HSP course run, and what are the available intake dates?

The AIL High School Preparation course typically runs from 10 to 40 weeks, depending on the student’s English level, destination school requirements, and academic goals. The course operates on a rolling intake basis, with new students able to commence every Monday.

4. How many students are in an AIL High School Preparation class?

AIL High School Preparation classes are kept small, typically with around 5 to 12 students per class. Small class sizes allow teachers to monitor individual progress, provide targeted support, and create an interactive classroom environment similar to Australian secondary schools.

5. What is the difference between the AIL HSP course and transition courses offered by public language centres?

The AIL High School Preparation course is a specialised pathway program for international students entering Australian secondary schools. It offers small classes, VIT-registered teachers, an award-winning curriculum aligned with the Victorian curriculum, soft skills development, extracurricular activities, and parent communication through the MyAIL app.

6. What subjects and skills are covered in the HSP curriculum?

The AIL High School Preparation curriculum includes English, English for Mathematics, English for Science, Humanities, and PE. Students also develop study skills, critical thinking, note-taking, presentation skills, and classroom communication.

7. How does HSP prepare students for entry into Australian secondary schools?

AIL HSP prepares students for Australian secondary schools by using a curriculum closely aligned with the Victorian F–10 curriculum. The course simulates a real Australian classroom environment and helps students understand local teaching styles, assessment methods, academic expectations, and classroom communication.

8. Are there regular assessments, and how is student progress measured?

Yes, AIL HSP students complete regular formative and summative assessments, including weekly tasks, projects, mid-term tests, and end-of-term tests. Progress reports are provided to students and parents, and students enrolled for more than 10 weeks are required to undertake the AEAS test upon exit.

9. What happens if a student does not meet the required standard in HSP assessments?

AIL’s goal is to support student success, not to fail students. If a student does not meet the required standard, teachers provide targeted academic support, additional learning assistance, and close progress monitoring. If needed, students may be recommended to extend their HSP study before transitioning into mainstream school.

10. What is the English entry requirement for the AIL High School Preparation course?

Students are generally required to have a basic to intermediate level of English to enter the AIL High School Preparation course. Placement is determined through an assessment to ensure each student begins at the appropriate level.

11. Do students need to take an English placement test before starting the AIL HSP course?

Yes, all students complete an English placement test before starting the AIL High School Preparation course. This ensures students are placed in the correct level according to their English ability and learning needs.

12. Does the AIL HSP course include preparation for AEAS or other English assessments?

Yes, the AIL High School Preparation course helps students develop the English language ability needed for assessments such as AEAS. The program does not focus on test-taking strategies, but the AEAS test is conducted at the end of the course as an independent measure of progress and school readiness.

13. Which schools does AIL partner with for HSP student placement?

AIL works with a range of reputable private and public schools across Melbourne. Students and families should contact the AIL Admissions Team enquiries@ail.edu.au to confirm whether the HSP course is accepted by their preferred schools.
 

14. Is successful completion of the AIL HSP course accepted as an entry pathway into partner schools?

Yes, successful completion of the AIL High School Preparation course is recognised by partner schools as a pathway into mainstream secondary education, subject to each school’s individual entry requirements.

15. What support does AIL provide for school placement and transition?

AIL provides guidance on school selection, application support, and communication with partner schools to help students transition smoothly. AIL does not submit school applications on behalf of students and does not provide visa advice.

16. What kind of academic and pastoral support is available to students at AIL?

AIL students receive continuous academic support from qualified teachers as well as pastoral care to support wellbeing, adjustment, and overall student experience in Australia.

17. Are there extracurricular or cultural activities included in the AIL HSP program?

Yes, AIL HSP students can participate in after-school activities, excursions, and school-based events. These activities help students build confidence, social connections, and cultural understanding while studying in Australia.

18. Where are the AIL High School Preparation classes delivered?

AIL High School Preparation classes are currently delivered at the AIL MILC campus in Brighton. A Box Hill campus is scheduled to open in the second half of 2026, providing additional location options for students.

19. How long in advance should students apply for the AIL HSP course?

Students should ideally apply for the AIL High School Preparation course at least 8 to 10 weeks before their preferred start date. This allows time for enrolment processing, placement testing, visa arrangements if applicable, accommodation planning, and school pathway coordination.

20. Does AIL provide homestay or boarding options for HSP students?

Yes, AIL provides boarding accommodation at its MILC campus, with 46 on-campus beds in a supervised student residence. AIL can also assist students with homestay arrangements through trusted providers such as Australian Homestay Network (AHN) and OziHouse.