In addition to overseas students who come to Australia to study towards degrees, certificates and other long term courses,some students come for shorter periods to undertake courses in English Languages.

Around 36,800 or 24% of overseas students were undertaking English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students(ELICOS) in 2000. These courses can be undertaken at a variety of institutions. While those undertaken at higher education and vocational education institutions may be part of a degree or diploma, those undertaken at private institutions can be as short as six weeks.

English language courses are for international students who wants to improve their English language skills, be it for studying, travelling or business purposes. Many universities and TAFE institutions provide English Language Courses. There are a wide range of courses to suit all levels.