Overview

Hospitality Employment Programme UK places international students and non-students in paid positions in UK hotels, motels, restaurants, country houses, and other hospitality establishments for 25 weeks to 1 year.

While available for everybody, this program is great for hotel management school students who can request to be matched with large international hotel chains to enhance their future employability.

The programme offers front of house positions, which means that you will serve the customers. Check Work Experience UK Programme – Level 1 if you can’t stay for 25 weeks, or your English is not good enough.

This program aims to provide international understanding and gives the participants a chance to add international experience to their CV by doing a placement in a UK company. It is suitable for students wishing to gain international work experience and who have an intermediate level of English.

Offering paid work placements, the program helps the participants cover their expenses. Participants also get subsidized food and accommodation.

For those of you who have previously been in the USA, this program is very similar to Work and Travel USA. The longer minimum length makes the program unsuitable for summer vacations, but the positions are better and unlike with the USA program you don’t have to be a university student to apply! And it is possible to work for up to a year.

Images of actual program participants – click on the images to see them in full.

How it works

Locations

Placements are located throughout the UK, from the Isle of Skye to Cornwall. You can indicate a preference for the part of the UK, such as North, South, East or West.

Placements

This program liaises with thousands of British companies every year to ensure that it has internships and work experience placements which match the individual career objectives of about 5,000 participants per year. See a small selection of the companies the program is proud to work with below. Hospitality Employment Programme placements include general assistants, bar staff, restaurant staff, housekeeping and other key roles in the hospitality industry. The hospitality companies are of all sizes and can be located anywhere in the UK and range from family based businesses to 5 star hotels.

Preparatory Course

All students must attend a Preparatory English Language course for a minimum of 1 week prior to their placement, which will include workshops dedicated to providing students with all the necessary skills to get the most out of their experience. Participants learn hospitality and catering terminology and improve their English fluency. The preparatory course has proved extremely popular with students as participants enter their placement feeling prepared and, at completion, feel as though they have gained the most from their work experience. The 19-hour course contains 15 hour General English course, plus:

2 hour work skills workshop: Interview skills and techniques Customer service skills Health & safety/food hygiene Hospitality industry-specific vocabulary

2 hour pre-departure workshop: Placement confirmation UK employment law (NI, taxes, holiday entitlement, etc) Travel itinerary Welcome pack and student handbook

Institute of Leadership & Management Certificate (optional)

This unique certificate can be gained alongside the participant’s chosen work experience programme. It includes induction and self-study totalling 35 hours. See the prices section below for the fee. We highly recommend this optional course to hotel management students! Topics include:

How Organisations Work How to Access Help Customer Service Company Procedures & Codes of Practice Data Protection Act Safety & Security in the Workplace

Emergency Procedures Standards for Appearance & Behaviour Diversity Communication Anger Management Feedback

Anyone studying for the certificate receives one year free Studying Membership of Institute of Leadership and Management, giving access to a range of resources and services designed to support their learning and development.

Financial Guide

This is a shared experience, not a promise! The purpose is to give you an idea what you can expect.

You can expect working for the current UK minimum wage (linked below as it may change). Depending on your position, you may also receive tips from your customers. The accommodation usually costs between £30 and £60 per week, including food and tops at about £80 when it is rather luxurious. Work hours in hospitality depend on the amount of business, you may work more at some parts of year and have fewer work hours at other times. 35 work hours per week in average is a conservative number, there were students who worked as many as 50 hours per week in the summer.

Let’s try this calculation:
You participate for: 6 months
Accommodation: £50 per week including food
Work hours: 35 per week
Salary: £6.08 per hour UK Minimum wage per hour

Half of year means 26 weeks times 35 hours per week = 910 work hours times £6.08 = £5,533
26 weeks of accommodation times £50 = £1,300
£5,400 of income – £1,300 for accommodation and food = £4,233 Currency Converter

That’s not bad, but let’s try 12 months of your program participation:

You participate for: 12 months
Accommodation: £50 per week including food
Work hours: 35 per week
Salary: £6.08 per hour UK Minimum wage per hour

Half of year means 52 weeks times 35 hours per week = 1,820 work hours times £6.08 = £11,066
52 weeks of accommodation times £50 = £2,600
£11,066 of income – £2,600 for accommodation and food = £8,466 Currency Converter

That’s a pretty healthy amount to cover your initial program fees, food, fun and maybe another internship in Australia or another dream location of yours :-)

Participants who make more are those who work more than 35 hours per week, receive tips, or even find themselves a part-time second job.

Key Points

Duration:

• Min. 25 weeks to 1 year. Including 1 week preparatory course.

Start dates:

• The programme starts any Monday and runs all year round.

Public Holidays in 2012:

• Jan 2, Apr 6, Apr 9, May 7, Jun 4-5, Aug 27, Dec 25-26

Locations:

• You can be placed anywhere in the United Kingdom. If you wish, you may indicate your preference for the north, south, east or west of the UK.
• The host companies are generally in smaller towns and rural settings, not in big cities.
• You will get information about the location and type of placement before leaving your country.

Establishments:

• Hotels, restaurants and country houses.
• Students studying hotel management are welcome to request to be matched with large hotel chains.

Typical Positions:

• Front of house positions. This means positions where you will be serving customers. Waiting, reception, general assistant, bar tender, ront office and end even hotel management trainee positions are available.
• Students studying hotel management are welcome to request to be matched with large hotel chains.
• Note: If you wish to gain experience in finance, human resources, engineering, law, banking, architecture, etc. check the Internships.

Salary:

• UK Minimum wage per hour with deductions for tax, national insurance, accommodation and any other services provided by the employer, for instance meals.

Accommodation:

• During the Preparatory Course: Homestay Accommodation arranged by the sponsor.
• While working: Arranged by the establishment, usually in staff quarters in or near the hotel.

Change of Arrival Date

• Not allowed. The reason is that your employer makes plans for tasks such as initial orientation, safety training, shift scheduling, etc. based on your arrival date.

Note: Depending on the seriousness of the reasons why you can’t start the program on the date you requested in your application form, and the time when you announce that, the program provider may try to renegotiate the beginning of your program with your employer. If this is not possible, your cancellation from the program will result. See Cancellations & Refunds above.

Insurance
This program does not include insurance! You are required to arrange your own:

• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
• Travel insurance

Why both? The EHIC is NOT an alternative to travel insurance! For instance it will not cover any private medical healthcare if a public hospital wasn’t nearby! Or if you didn’t realize that the clinic you walked into wasn’t public. Nor will it cover the cost of things such as repatriation to your home country if you are seriously injured. You will not be allowed to start the program without adequate insurance. Click on the example below to see what travel insurance usually includes.


Important: Many insurance policies do not cover work. This program involves working. If you arrange your own insurance, make absolutely sure that it covers any injuries suffered while working!

Eligibility

Age:	Min 18
Student status:	Not required for applying
Experience:	Not necessary but some previous experience in the field would be an advantage
Required languages:	English
Required level:	Intermediate and above, IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent)*
Nationality:	EU nationals only (non-EU nationals check the Work Study programs)
Exception:	non-EU nationals, if they study in the UK on Tier 4 General Student visa
Type of visa:	n/a

*All participants will be tested upon arrival and before going to their placement to ensure they have the level of English required for the programme. If they do not have the required level, they will need to purchase additional weeks of General English.

Prices

Application Processing Fee (non-refundable): $50 Application Processing Fee includes:

• Processing your program application
• Processing your payment to the program sponsor
• Transferring materials and communication between you and your program sponsor until your departure for the UK
• Responding to your email questions until your departure for the UK
• Check APEX Foundation Terms & Conditions for more details

Program Fee: £880 Program Fee includes:

• Enrollment on the programme
• 1 week intensive employment preparatory course
• 1 week accommodation after arrival
• Paid work experience placement
• Paid work experience welcome booklet
• Monitoring and support throughout the placement (24-hour emergency student support)

Administrative Fee: (non-refundable) £50

• Charged by the program sponsor

CAS: (non-refundable) £20

• It means Certificate of Acceptance of Studies
• It is necessary for applying for the Tier 4 General Student Visa
• Non-visa nationals do not need it

Arrival Transfer*(optional): £68-158

• The price is simply the cost of a taxi ride from one of the four London airports at which you will arrive. Your price will depend on how far is that particular airport from the place of your accommodation.

*It is your responsibility to inform us of your arrival details minimum 14 working days prior to the transfer! Failing this, the transfer may not be provided as requested/paid. Arrival details include: arrival date, arrival airport, the airline, flight number and arrival time.

ILM Certificate (optional, see details above): £95

• Includes Professional Development Program by Institute of Leadership and Management.

Cancellations & Refunds

• More than 2 weeks prior to the planned arrival: Program Fee less £280 is refunded.
• Fewer than 2 weeks prior to the planned arrival: No fees paid will be refunded.

IMPORTANT:

• Cancellations are only accepted on a Cancellation Form supplied by the program sponsor. The date considered as the date of the cancellation is the date when this form, completed and signed by the program participant was delivered.
• In the event a refund sent according to the applicant’s instructions is returned by a bank or the postal service as undeliverable or unclaimed, £15 administrative fee plus expenses are charged for each subsequent refund attempt.

How to Apply

Get the application kit
Email us at: apex@apex-foundation.org

Timing
The sooner the better. At least:

• 8 weeks prior to you planned arrival in the UK
• 10 weeks prior to you planned arrival in the UK when applying for the summer season

The procedure:

1. We email you a computer-fillable PDF application form with instructions.
2. Fill it out, save and email back to us, we will check that it’s done correctly.
3. Prepare your UK-style CV and Motivation Letter and email to us.
4. If requesting a higher-level position, such as hotel management trainee, enclose suitable references from your previous jobs and other credentials you may have obtained. In English, or accompanied by translation.
5. If everything is done correctly, we will ask you to print all the materials and sign them.
6. Get a $50 check (Traveler’s Check) for the Application Processing Fee and send the entire package to us.
7. You will be interviewed over Skype.
8. Once accepted you will get instructions for payment of the Program Fee.
9. We send your materials and payment over to the program sponsor.
10. In several days you will receive a phone call from the sponsor to verify your English.
11. Once accepted, you will receive your Certificate of Acceptance with Arrival Instructions.
12. Shortly before your arrival you receive your job Placement Confirmation.
13. After arrival in London, you will spend a week in the Employment Preparatory Course.
14. After that you travel to your UK employer and start working.
15. After you come back, we hope you will apply for another program we can offer you.
16. You can become our student cooperator and make money helping future applicants.
17. After the New Year, you will do your UK Tax Return.

Complete Application

Complete application must include:

1. Correctly completed and signed application form
2. Signed Program Provider’s Terms & Conditions
3. One (1) passport photographs (self-printed digital images are not acceptable)
4. British-style Curriculum Vitae
5. Motivation Letter
6. Letters of Reference in English (optional, but may help getting placed at a better establishment)
7. $50 Application Processing Fee (by banker’s check, traveler’s check, or money order)
8. Signed APEX Foundation’s Terms & Conditions (print them out and put a date and signature to the lower right corner of every page)

Contact us before mailing the application packet to make sure that nothing is missing!

Interview

• Every applicant must be interviewed to verify his/her level of English and having correct understanding of the rules of the program as well as correct expectations of it.
• The interview takes place after the complete application packet has been delivered to APEX Foundation.
• The interview may be conducted by an experienced previous participant of a work-involving international exchange program, or when unavailable, by APEX Foundation’s staff over Skype or phone*.

*Using an impostor: While it is rare, there have been instances of applicants who had a friend with good English skills stand in for them during the Skype/phone interview. If your level of English is found to be much lower upon arrival in the UK than it appeared during the Skype/phone interview, you will be offered to pay for the necessary number of weeks of General English to bring your English up to the required level, or you will be cancelled without any refund.

FAQ

Overview

Do you have your U.S. internship arranged and all you need now is the internship/training J1 Visa?

Contact us today! We’ll assist you with completing the paperwork.

After that, you, your employer and your training plan will be evaluated. If approved, you will be issued the DS-2019 and DS-7002 forms which you take to the U.S. embassy to apply for your J1 Internship or Trainee visa.

All done, you’re good to go! Can take as few as 4 weeks.

Do not have an employer arranged? Click here (coming soon) for a program where you can apply to be considered by pre-selected employers.

Key Points

Duration:

• up to 18 months, your choice
• up to 12 months in hospitality fields

When to apply:

• At least 2 months prior to your desired program start date.

Locations:

• anywhere in the USA

Commonly sponsored fields:

• Architecture
• Accounting
• Advertising
• Business Management
• Engineering
• Finance
• Hospitality & Tourism
• Hotel Management
• Information Technology
• Law & Public Administration
• Marketing
• Media & Communications
• Sales

Fields that can’t be sponsored:

• Medicine of any kind, including dentistry and veterinary medicine
• Child care or elder care
• Early childhood education
• Work that involves patient care or contact
• Therapy, medication, or other clinical or medical care
• Sports or physical therapy, psychological counseling, nursing, speech therapy
• Social work
• Unskilled work, see the official US Government list of Unskilled Occupations
• Business-related programs in hotels, resorts, inns, or restaurants, see the “How it works” tab for more information.

Start dates:

• Any, depends only on the arrangement between you and your employer

Remuneration

• Not required.
• Unpaid internships can be sponsored, as long as applicant shows proof of sufficient financial resources to cover his or her living expenses in the USA.

Accommodation:

• Not a part of the program, you arrange your accommodation independently.

Insurance

• You must use the approved, program sponsor-arranged insurance.
• See the “Prices” tab for the cost.
• You are free to arrange additional insurance on your own if you wish.
• APEX Foundation does not offer any support regarding any insurance.

Important: Many insurance policies do not cover work. Since you will be working in the USA, make absolutely sure that your own additional  insurance, if you decide to arrange it, covers injuries sustained while working!

How it works

The procedure
if you already have your internship arranged

You and your employer complete the forms that you get from us, get interviewed, you pay the fees, get the visa documents, apply for your visa and you are good to go.

You, your employer and your proposed training plan must be approved. I.e. you must meet the eligibility requirements (see the “Eligibility” tab). Your employer must meet the requirements set forth below on this tab (scroll down), and your training must clearly be in your field of study or career field.

For the detailed procedure, see “How to apply”.

If nothing is missing in your paperwork, and you, your employer and your training plan clearly meet the requirements, you may be able to leave in as few as 4-5 weeks.

Finding an Internship
where to start if you haven’t your internship arranged yet

Visa Types
what Visa you can apply for

J1 Internship Visa
This visa can be issued to current full-time tertiary students (university or college), or to recent graduates up to 12 months after graduation. Keep in mind that the 12 months really concern the visa, i.e. when you already go to the US embassy with all your paperwork in hand to apply for one. You have to apply for the program earlier than that. This visa is good for up to 12 months.

J1 Trainee Visa
This visa is for non-students. This means either persons who graduated from a tertiary educational instutution (university or college) with a bachelor’s degree or higher, who have at least 1 year of demonstrable work experience in their field. Or persons without university/college education in their field, but who have at least 5 years of demonstrable work experience in that field.

Locations
where you can go

Anywhere in the USA
From Sand Diego to Boston, from Miami to Anchorage or Honolulu. Simply, your internship or trainee placement can be located anywhere in the United States of America.

Employers
What company can become your host employer

Employers must:

• Not be a home-based business
• Have more than 25 employees or more than $3 million in revenue¹
• Have a US Federal Identification Number
• Have a Dun & Bradstreet (DUNS) Number²
• Have an active Worker’s Compensation Insurance Policy³
• Provide full-time (min. 32 hours/week), professional level positions⁴ for interns and trainees
• Be able to provide continuous on-site supervision of interns and trainees.
• Have an English-language website that provides a description and verification of your company’s business activities⁵
• Have a business or company email address (cannot be hotmail, gmail, etc.)
• Sign a Host Employer Agreement form.
• Create and sign a Training/Internship Placement Plan (DS-7002).
• Maintain a full-time employee to intern/trainee ratio of at least 3:1.
• Provide structured and guided training, and do not use this program for regular work purposes
• Consent to be visited, upon request, by the program sponsor staff during your program.

¹If your company has fewer than 25 employees or less than $3 million in revenue, the sponsors are required by the State Department to perform a site visit prior to approving you for the program.
²Employers that do not have a DUNS number may provide a copy of business license or registration.
³A proof must be submitted, a suitable form comes with the program application
⁴Work must not involve more than 20% clerical or basic work
⁵ If you do not have a website, you must submit professional marketing materials describing your business activities and a copy of your business registration, and consent to a site visit by the program sponsor.

Hotel Placement Requirements
if you want to work in Hotel Management, Hospitality, Hotel Food & Beverage

Acceptable types of Hotels and Inns

• Should be a 3-star/diamond or higher establishment (ranked by AAA or Mobil)
• If unranked, will be considered on a case-by-case basis

Acceptable types of Tasks and Job Activities

The regulations allow for up to 20% clerical or basic work in order for the intern to learn the basics. However, once the basics are learned, the majority of the intern’s tasks should be advanced or management-level tasks.

Always Acceptable

• Front desk
• Concierge
• Hotel/restaurant inventory – management/buying

Sometimes Acceptable

• Business areas within the hotel (as part of a back-of-house rotation)
• Serving/Hosting (only for one rotation as part of an F&B training – no more than 20% of the internship)
• Housekeeping (only for one rotation as part of a housekeeping manager training – no more than 20% of the internship)
• Catering/banquets (only if training to be catering/event manager)
• Food preparation (no short order – must be professional culinary training)
• Guest services (if part of hotel management training – no room service, dry cleaning, shoe-shining, etc.)

Never Acceptable

• Valet
• Bellhop
• Dishwashing
• Laundry
• Bussing tables
• Bartending

These are only general guidelines – all hotel Training Plans and applications are still considered on a case-by-case basis.

Restaurant Management
if you want to work in a restaurant

Permitted types of restaurants

• Full-service, sit-down, or fine dining restaurants
• Major U.S. sit-down dining chains (TGI Friday’s, Outback, Olive Garden, etc.)
• Full-service banquet hall

Prohibited types of restaurants

• Fast-food chains (McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, Steak N’Shake, etc.)
• Takeout or delivery restaurants
• Mall/strip mall/boardwalk/toll plaza restaurants, kiosks, or stands
• Roadside stands

Types of tasks and job activities

The regulations allow for up to 20% clerical or basic work in order for the intern to learn the basics. However, once the basics are learned, the majority of the intern’s tasks should be advanced or management-level tasks.

Always Acceptable

• Restaurant inventory – management/buying
• Catering management/event planning
• Staff training and development

Sometimes Acceptable

• Business areas within the restaurant (as part of a back-of-house rotation)
• Serving/hosting (only for one rotation in order to learn the basics – no more than 20% of the internship)

Never Acceptable

• Cashier
• Dishwashing
• Bussing tables
• Bartending
• Food preparation/delivery

These are only general guidelines – all restaurant Training Plans and applications are still considered on a case-by-case basis.

Accommodation
which one to choose

Many people don’t realize that accommodation cost about the same, if not more, than the program itself! This holds true in the USA, as well as in Australia, in the UK and other places. Choosing the right accommodation option is therefore an important decision.

As you will be arranging your accommodation yourself, you may appreciate the following basics regarding accommodation in the USA. Start by talking to your host employer about the city or neighborhood where you will be working and the neighborhoods they recommend: What are the best websites, newspapers, or other resources people use in the area to look for housing.

Renting
Renting an apartment by yourself will provide you with the most freedom and comfort. It can, however be a very expensive to pay for a place to live just by yourself.

Share
A cost-efficient way to live in an apartment in a large city like New York is to share an apartment with other people. You agree to divide responsibilities and payment of rent and bills. Roommates can be found through word of mouth once you arrive in the US or through websites, such as Roommates.com (see resources below).

Sublet
Another option is to sublet an apartment from a tenant who leaves for a period of time – a few months or longer. You assume the responsibilities of paying rent and bills and the original tenant assumes all responsibilities under the lease.

To rent, share, or sublet an apartment, you are typically required to provide a photo ID, a letter from an employer with salary information or proof of sufficient funds from home, bank account information, and checks/travelers’ checks.

Dormitory-style apartments and university housing
Dormitories typically have a greater sense of community and social interaction and will allow you to meet other students and young professionals. Most often, dormitory-style and university housing will require you to share a bedroom and bathroom with other individuals. Most dormitories also provide essential housing needs, such as furnished rooms, Internet access, kitchen and laundry facilities, and, in some cases, even meals.

Homestays
Homestays offer participants the opportunity to improve language skills and sample American culture in a unique way by living with a US family. Participants will typically have their own bedroom and arrange to take an allotted amount of meals with the family each week.

Hostels

Hostels are great for temporary accommodation while you look for something more long-term.

Resources – Where to Look

Apartment Rentals/Sublets

• Apartments.com
• Craigslist
• internhousing.com
• Rent Direct
• To Sublet
• Roommates.com
• Apartments.com

Homestays

• American Homestay Agency

Hostels

• Hostelling International
• Hostels.com
• HostelsUSA.com

Financial Guide
how much it will all cost

This is not a promise! This is a guide intended to give you a general idea about some of the numbers. Your own experience may be different! You can expect to make about $7.50 to $8.50 per hour (see USA median wages for example in the service sector). Some students are paid more, depending on their position, the company they work for and how good employees they are. Some participants make over $1o per hour. We chose Columbus, Ohio as an example of mid-range city as far as accommodation costs are concerned.

Scenario:

Duration: 18 months
Program fee: $2,233
Insurance: 18 months * $37 = $666
Accommodation: Roomshare $300/mo * 18 months = $5,400
Work: 40 hrs/wk @ $8/hr * 77 weeks = $24,640

Under this scenario, you will be left with $19,240 to cover your other expenses, having fun in the USA and bringing some money back home.

Try more scenarios and cost/income/location combinations yourself. All prices are shown on the “Prices” tab.

Eligibility

Interns and Trainees (see “How it works” for employer eligibility)

Internship J1 Visa

Age:	18 – 38
Student status:	full-time tertiary student1, or up to 12 months after graduation
Experience:	some work experience in the field expected
Required languages:	English
Required level:	Advanced (~IELTS 6.0)
Nationality:	Nationals of all countries are eligible to apply
Type of visa:	Internship J1 Visa

Trainee J1 Visa

Age:	18 – 38
Student status:	Min. Bachelor’s Degree2, or 5 years of demonstrable experience in the field3
Experience:	With degree min. 1 year, without degree min 5 years
Required languages:	English
Required level:	Advanced (~IELTS 6.0)
Nationality:	Nationals of all countries are eligible to apply
Type of visa:	Trainee J1 Visa

¹ of an educational institution outside the USA
² granted by an educational institution outside the USA
³ obtained while working outside the USA

Prices

Prices

• All fees are subject to change without notice.
• All bank transfer fees are always born by the participant regardless of the direction of the transfer.

Application Processing Fee: $100
non-refundable, includes:

• Guidance though the entire application process from initial inquiry until your departure for the USA
• Processing your program application
• Processing your employer-written training plan
• Pre-screening Interview (required by law, only Skype-Skype interviews are included, phone interviews are charged extra)
• Processing your payment to the program sponsor
• Transferring materials and communication between you and your program sponsor until your departure for the USA
• Responding to your email questions until your departure for the USA
• Check APEX Foundation Terms & Conditions for more details

Program Fee
depends on the duration of your program:

Duration	1-6 months	7- 12 months	13-18 months
Program Fee	$1,077	$1,655	$2,233

Includes

• Evaluating your application and Training Plan
• Evaluating your employer company for the purpose of the J1 visa eligibility
• Supplying you with the necessary visa paperwork
• J1-Visa sponsorship (DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility) if approved
• Transfer of the SEVIS fee (below) to the U.S. Government
• I-901 SEVIS Payment Confirmation
• Acceptance packet with additional program information
• 24/7/365 Emergency contact service operated by your visa sponsor

SEVIS Fee: $180
This fee is charged by the US Government and is not refundable.

• The amount covers the entire program.
• It doesn’t depend on how long you will stay.

Site Visit: $250
see the “How it works” tab for which employers must be visited

This is a one-time fee ordinarily paid by the employer, rather than the participant. Once the employer is accepted into the program, the visa sponsor never charges this fee again and the employer is free to hire international interns as desired in future.

Insurance: $37 per month
Mandatory insurance, not refundable*:

• The program requires you to purchase the accident/sickness insurance arranged by the program sponsor.
• The insurance is paid together with the program fee and may not be declined.
• It’s the minimum insurance required by US Federal regulations for this program.
• You must purchase it for every month covered by your DS-2019 form, plus 30 days.
• Example: you want to work for 95 days = buy 4 months of insurance plus 30 days = 5 months.
• APEX Foundation is not involved in arranging this insurance and offers no assistance with it.
• Tip: We recommend that you also buy an additional insurance in your country. Partly you may get better coverage than this minimum insurance, but most importantly, in the case of any problems with covering your medical costs, you will be able to deal with the insurance company in your native language.

*If you happen to cancel so soon after you paid your fees that your program sponsor haven’t yet made the payment for you to the insurance company, you will be refunded the amount you paid for insurance. There is no specific time-frame set when the sponsor makes these payments.

Miscellaneous Fees
not everybody pays them:

• Reprint of lost or damaged DS-2019: $40 plus shipping

Cancellations & Refunds
if you have to cancel

• Application rejected by visa sponsor: Program Fee less $200 is refunded
• Cancellation prior to issuance of DS-2019: Program Fee less $300 is refunded
• Cancellation after issuance of DS-2019 (prior to receiving visa): Program Fee less $450 is refunded
• Cancellation because of visa denial: Program Fee less $100 is refunded
• Cancellation after visa was issued: $40 for each remaining whole month of the program is refunded
• Self-arranged placement found by the visa sponsor to have been forged: No refund
• Submitting any forged documents, certificates or untrue information will result in being canceled from the program with no refund.
• Once a DS-2019 Form is issued, any refund request will only be processed once the original DS-2019 Form has been returned to APEX Foundation.
• In the event a refund sent according to the applicant’s instructions is returned by a bank or the postal service as undeliverable or unclaimed, $20 administrative fee plus expenses are charged for each subsequent refund attempt.

How to Apply

The procedure:

1. If you already have your internship arranged, contact us to ask for the application packet.
2. After you receive it, send your employer the DS7002 Training Plan form and form for proof of employee insurance.
3. In the meantime, you will complete the application and collect all required accompanying documents, especially the proofs of your existing work experience in your field.
4. Your employer will send the Training Plan and the proof of employee insurance to you.
5. You will sign that you accept the training plan and send the whole package to us together with the Application Processing Fee.
6. If your application is done correctly, we will arrange for a Skype interview with you.
7. If there’s no clearly apparent reason why your application should not be approved, we’ll send you instructions for payment of the program fee.
8. Your application packet and payment is then sent to your visa sponsor.
9. Your visa sponsor will interview you again over Skype and will get in touch with your employer. Some employers have to be visited in person before being approved, see the “How it works” tab for which ones require the visit.
10. Once you, your employer and your training plan are all finally approved, your visa sponsor will issue your “Certificate of Eligibility”, with which you’ll go apply for your visa.
11. Once your visa is granted, you can leave for the USA and start your Internship/Training.

While this procedure may look intimidating, it can in fact take as few as 4-5 weeks! What slows things down is mainly:

1. Your placement appears to possibly be just a semi-skilled job in America, rather than a genuine internship/training. It then takes time to verify that this is not really the case.
2. Your paperwork is missing some parts, signatures (very common), or is not filled out according to the instructions. It takes time to send different documents back and forth between you and us.

In most cases it’s the best to apply at least 2 months prior to your planned departure. However check also with your local USA embassy how long it will take you to get a slot for your visa interview.

FAQ

Overview

The First Certificate in English (FCE) and the Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) will empower you to follow any academic course at university level, communicate effectively at managerial and professional level, participate with confidence in workplace meetings or academic seminars, carry out complex research, and express yourself as an individual.

Top-Quality Course
You will have not one, but two expert teachers, experienced in Cambridge Examination Preparation! Small numbers of students are guaranteed in all classes of these courses. For 12 weeks, you will be working together in a group of students with a common goal. The course is highly structured and you will get lots of opportunities for practice tests to get perfectly prepared for your exam!

Combine with workplace practice
Practice your newly acquired language skills in real life by being placed in a company in Sydney. Organized in areas such as marketing, accounting, engineering, finance etc.

Combine with paid work
Most students work in cafes, fast-food and restaurants making about AU$10-AU$18 per hour. Check our “Financial Guide” on the “How it works” tab.

Key Points

Duration:

• 10 to 12 weeks

When to apply:

• At least 2 months prior to your desired program start date.

Locations:

• Sydney

Classes:

• Intensive English Course – 20 hrs/wk
• Super Intensive English Course – 25 hrs/wk

Course dates 2012:

• From January 3rd 2012 to March 9th 2012, from March 19th 2012 to June 8th 2012, from June 18th 2012 to August 24th 2012, from September 10th 2012 to November 30th 2012
• If you are a Super Intensive student, your classes will start at 1:30 pm on the first day (Monday) after the Orientation.
• If you are an Intensive student, your classes will start at 8:30 am on Tuesday.

Australian Public Holidays 2012:

• 2 Jan, 26 Jan, 6 Apr, 25 Apr, 11 Jun, 6 Aug, 1 Oct, 25-26 Dec

Orientation Day after Arrival:

• Monday: morning students arrive 8:15 AM, evening students arrive 3:30 PM.
• Bring: passport and a passport photo.
• Receive: Student Orientation Book, Sydney Map, CityRail Network Map, Activities Flyers.
• Interview and written test: to assess your English level.
• Enrolment agreement and student card: you’ll sign them.
• Information about: the school, classes, activities, and life in Australia.
• Short tour of: the school, its facilities, the area surrounding the school.
• After the Orientation: go home or ask further questions.
• Super Intensive students: start at 1:30 PM on Monday after the Orientation.
• Intensive students: start at 8:30 AM on Tuesday.

Paid work permission:

• You can work alongside this course.
• Students on Student Visa can work 20 hours per week.
• Students on Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa can work up to full-time.
• Job must not interfere with courses.
• For more details, check the “How it works” tab.

Accommodation:

• Home Stay with Australian families
• Student Guesthouse
• Your own-sourced accommodation
• See the “How it works” tab for more details
• See the “Prices” tab for the costs

Insurance

• You must be insured to participate
• Student Visa holders have to register with OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), the compulsory Australian student medical insurance.
• Working Holiday Visa holders will have to organise their own medical insurance.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own, in English
• APEX Foundation does not offer support with insurance

Important: Many insurance policies do not cover work. If you intend to work in Australia, make absolutely sure that your insurance covers any injuries sustained while working!

How it works

How the program works
from application to arrival

After you are accepted for the program and paid the fees, you receive a Letter of Acceptance.
If you are going to apply for the Student Visa, you will also receive an Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment form (e-CoE) which you need for your visa application. The accommodation department will also start arranging your accommodation. You will receive travel directions to your accommodation shortly after that. If you wish for a taxi to wait for you at the airport, you must supply your arrival details at least 2 weeks prior to your arrival. It is ideal to schedule your arrival for Saturday or Sunday around the noon time, or before. That way, even if your flight is delayed, which happens quite often, you reduce the likelihood of arriving late at night. On Monday morning at 8.15 am, you will attend your orientation and after that start your course.

Visa Types
what Visa you can apply for

Tourist Visa (Subclass 676)
If you are planning to do a course of 12 weeks or less, you can for a tourist visa. If you want to extend your visa after the course, you can, but you can extend it for tourist-only purposes for a second 3 months and sometimes further. It is illegal to work on a tourist visa. However, voluntary work for non-profit organisations is permitted.

Student Visa (Subclass 570)
You should apply for a student visa if you are planning to study for 13 weeks or more. This visa will allow you to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. Please check with the Australian embassy nearest you how much money you have to have available for covering your living costs in Australia in order to receive your visa. Ordinarily AU$ 18,000 is required for 1 year of study.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Students from Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, HKSAR, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan and United Kingdom can apply for this type of visa. This is a 12-month visa, which permits a maximum of 3 months study during the 12 months. The other 9 months allows you to work, however, you can not work for more than 6 months with any one employer.

Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
This visa is for people from Bangladesh, Chile, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey and the USA, who want to travel and work for up to 12 months in Australia. This visa allows you to supplement the cost of your holiday through periods of temporary or casual employment.

Locations
where you can go

Sydney
Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world (click for pictures). With a population of over 4 million people, Sydney has all the excitement of a big city but is surrounded by beaches and mountains. The relaxed lifestyle of Australians and the natural beauty of the country make Sydney a perfect destination for a young international traveler wishing to study English while enjoying life in a far-away coutry!

Accommodation
which one to choose

Many people don’t realize that accommodation cost about the same, if not more, than the program itself! This holds true in Australia, as well as in the UK and USA and other places. Choosing the right accommodation option is therefore an important decision.

This program can offer you a wide range of accommodation from self-catering student guesthouse to a full-board homestay with an Australian family. You are, of course, free to arrange your own accommodation too.

Home Stay – the best for learning

Home Stay with a local family is the best choice for learning a language! You will be talking with the family members in the morning as you get up, during breakfast and then in the evening. This is not like talking in a class at school! You will really practice your language skills, pick up new words and listen to the correct accent.

Homestay families live in houses, apartments or semi detached houses. Majority of the families live 30-50 minutes away from the language center.

Home Stay accommodation is available as Half-Board, which includes both breakfast and dinner (+ 3 meals on the weekends), No Meals with use of kitchen facilities (schedule arranged by family) or Twin Share, which is a private room shared with a travelling companion, breakfast and dinner and 3 meals on the weekends. For simplicity, we are only showing prices of HB, please ask about the remaining options.

Student Guesthouse

Student guesthouses are great for enjoying the company of your peers from many other countries in the world. This is ideal for a casual learner who doesn’t mind listening to equally imperfect English of his or her companions. Each residence contains a range of rooms, all with wireless Internet, TV and DVD or VCR player and wardrobe space. Each resident contains a courtyard area, TV room with cable television and a fully equipped kitchen. Every one of these guesthouses has its own unique trait.

Self-Arranged Accommodation

You are free to arrange your own accommodation. Maybe you have friends or relatives who live in Sydney with whom you can stay for free. Or perhaps you are applying as a group of friends and will rent a cheap apartment together.

A common strategy of students on budget is to pay for two or three weeks of the accommodation arranged by the program to have a place to stay after their arrival, and find a cheaper roomshare during this period.

Paid Work
alongside the course

Many participants are interested in the opportunity to having a paid job alongside the course. Partly they want to help cover their expenses, partly to practice their English, and partly to really feel like they are living in Australia.

Paid work is allowed, but job placement is not a part of this program! You have to find it yourself.

Check also Work and Travel, Work and Study or Internships if you are more interested in working than studying.

We remind you that students on a Tourist Visa are not allowed to work in Australia. If you come to Australia on a Student Visa, you must take up a full time course during the whole duration of your stay. You are allowed to work but only outside of these study hours, and a maximum of 20 hours per week. If you come on a Working Holiday Visa or Work & Holiday Visa (if your country is eligible), you are allowed to work full time for one year in Australia but must change employers after 6 months.

Importantly, any such employment happens outside this program and must not interfere with your classes! Otherwise you might be cancelled for non-attendance. Most students work in fast food, cafes, restaurants, and the like. These positions generally pay between AU$10 and AU$18 (see also the Australian Minimum Wage below), with deductions for taxes and any other services provided by the employer, for instance meals. If you get a position where you get tips, such as a waiter, you may make more money on the tips than what is your wage!

Financial Guide
how much it will all cost

This is not a promise! This is a guide intended to give you a general idea about some of the numbers. Your own experience may be different! We use the Australian Minimum Wage in our calculations, you may make more money than that. You may also be able to live more cheaply, for instance if you find yourself a roomshare with other students.

Let’s have a look at these two example scenarios:

SCENARIO 1

Visa: Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), or Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462)
Duration: 10 weeks of school, 10 months of work (or about 40 weeks of work)
Course: Intensive, 20 hr/wk @ AU$320/wk
Accommodation: HomeStay single room @ AU$190/wk
Work: 40 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

50 weeks of accommodation = – AU$9,500
10weeks of school = -AU$3,200
40 weeks of work = +AU$24,816

Under this scenario, you will be left with AU$12,116 to cover your other expenses, having fun in Australia and bringing some money back.

SCENARIO 2

Visa: Student Visa (subclass 570)
Duration: 12 weeks
Course: Intensive, 20 hr/wk @ AU$320/wk
Accommodation: HomeStay single room, half-board @ AU$190/wk
Work: 20 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

12 weeks of accommodation = – AU$2,280
12 weeks of school = -AU$3,840
12 weeks of work = +AU$3,722

Under this scenario, half year of quality language school and accommodation with one meal per day in Australia will cost you AU$2,398.

Comment: With the Intensive course, 20 hours of classes means just 4 hours of school every day. Even with having to prepare for the next day’s classes, this leaves you enough time for part-time work.

Try more scenarios and cost/income combinations yourself. All prices are shown on the “Prices” tab.

Eligibility

Age:	Min 18
Student status:	not required for applying
Experience:	n/a
Required languages:	English
Required level:	FCE – Upper Intermediate, CAE – Advanced level*
Nationality:	Nationals of all countries are eligible
Type of visa:	Tourist Visa, Student Visa, Working Holiday Visa, Work and Holiday Visa

*Language placement test and assessment, carried out on day one, ensures that all students are in the right class and improve quickly.

Prices

Prices

• All fees are subject to change without notice.
• All bank transfer fees are born by the participant regardless of the direction of the transfer.
• If paying by bank transfer $30 should be added to invoice total in order to cover bank charges.

Application Processing Fee: AU$50
includes:

• Processing your program application
• Processing your payment to the program sponsor
• Transferring materials and communication between you and your program sponsor until your departure for Australia
• Responding to your email questions until your departure for Australia
• Check APEX Foundation Terms & Conditions for more details

Tuition:
AU$200 Enrollment Fee + weekly tuition in AU$

Intensive	20 hrs/wk	320
Super-Intensive	25 hrs/wk	360

Prices include:

• Enrollment on the programme
• Initial test, evaluation and class placement
• Tuition for the chosen course option and number of weeks
• Monitoring and support throughout the placement (24-hour emergency student support)

Study Material: AU$120
one-time charge in AU$

•  Study material for the course

Examination Fee:
prices in AU$

FCE	362
CAE	368

 

Insurance: AU$40/month
only applies to Student Visa holders

• Student Visa Holders must have Australian Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• The program sponsor will arrange this insurance for you.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own insurance in English.
• See “Key Points” for more details.

Accommodation
prices in AU$ per week

	Single room HB	Single room	Twin room HB*	Twin room*	Triple Room HB*	Triple Room*
HomeStay	250**	190**	220**	n/a	n/a	n/a
Student Guesthouse	n/a	265***	n/a	185***	n/a	150***

* Must be booked by students travelling together.
** minimum 2 weeks
***minimum 4 weeks

Accommodation Placement Fee: AU$180
One-time charge for booking the accommodation you selected.

Accommodation change after placement: AU$100
If you wish to change your accommodation and want the new one be arranged by the program sponsor.

Arrival Transfer*
optional

• Transfer between Sydney Airport and your accommodation
• Arrival: AU$110
• Departure: AU$70

*It is your responsibility to inform us of your arrival details minimum 14 working days prior to the transfer! Failing this, the transfer may not be provided as requested/paid. There is no refund for booked and unused arrival transfer. Arrival details include: arrival date, arrival airport, the airline, flight number and arrival time.

Cancellations & Refunds
if you have to cancel

• Application Processing Fee is not refundable
• Accommodation Placement Fee is not refundable
• Visa denial: Full refund of the paid Tuition less AU$100
• Cancellation by participant 28 days or more before the course starts: 85% of the Tuition refunded
• Cancellation by participant less than 28 days before the course starts: an 9 weeks’ Tuition is charged
• Cancellation by participant after the course starts: No refund
• Cancelling homestay accommodation requires at least 4 weeks notice, otherwise  2 weeks’ accommodation fee is charged.
• No fees can be refunded while you are in Australia
• Tuition fees are not transferable
• If any course is terminated before its commencement, course monies will be refunded in full.
• Per the ESOS Act 2000, if any course is terminated after the course commencement date, the school will arrange for the transfer of the student to another institution offering a similar course at no extra expense to the student. Alternatively, the student may elect to have course monies refunded.
• Refunds are transferred to participant within 8 weeks of APEX International, LLC.’s receipt of written notification.
• Instructions for transfer of the refund, regardless of the payment method, are used exactly as supplied by the participant. APEX International, LLC. bears no responsibility if the instructions are incorrect, incomplete or not understandable by any bank or other institution involved in transferring the funds. Bank fees plus $50 is charged if transfer of the refund must be repeated.

How to Apply

The procedure:

1. We email you a computer-fillable PDF application form with instructions.
2. Fill it out, save and email back to us, we will check that it’s done correctly.
3. If everything is done correctly, we will ask you to send us the hard copy by mail.
4. Get a AU$250 check (Traveler’s Check) for the Application Processing Fee and send the entire package to us.
5. Once your application is accepted you will get instructions for payment of the Program Fee.
6. We send your materials and payment over to the program sponsor.
7. After your application and payment have been confirmed, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance from the program sponsor.
8. If you are applying for the Student Visa, you will receive your e-CoE (Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment form).
9. Everybody receives Arrival Instructions.
10. Next, you arrange your flight and give us your detailed arrival information.
11. Ideal arrival day is Saturday, not too late in the case you’d need any kind of support.
12. After arrival in Sydney, you will travel to your accommodation.
13. On the first day (Monday) at 8:15 am the orientation will start.

It’s best to apply at least 2 months prior to your planned departure. Check with your local Australian embassy how long it will take you to get the your visa.

*The test hast to be completed hand-written.

FAQ

Overview

The IELTS exam is used throughout the world for university entry and immigration purposes. Most universities and colleges in English speaking countries will require an IELTS score to accept students in their institutions.

Focus on getting you the score you need
The course specifically focuses on each of the learning modes required for successful completion of the IELTS examination. You will be assisted in improving your deficiencies in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, in order to help you achieve high overall score.

You will get plenty of opportunities for practicing the IELTS test to help you build confidence, and your progress is assessed on a monthly basis by the teaching staff. This course prepares you to achieve the score you need!

Combine with workplace practice
Practice your newly acquired language skills in real life by being placed in a company in Sydney. Organized in areas such as marketing, accounting, engineering, finance etc.

Combine with paid work
Most students work in cafes, fast-food and restaurants making about AU$10-AU$18 per hour. Check our “Financial Guide” on the “How it works” tab.

Key Points

Duration:

• 4 to 36 weeks, your choice

When to apply:

• At least 2 months prior to your desired program start date.

Locations:

• Sydney

Classes:

• Intensive English Course – 20 hrs/wk (evening program possible)
• Super Intensive English Course – 25 hrs/wk

Class size:

• In average 12 students

Start dates 2012:

• 3 Jan, 30 Jan, 27 Feb, 26 Mar, 23 Apr, 21 May, 18 Jun, 16 Jul, 13 Aug, 10 Sept, 8 Oct, 5 Nov, 3 Dec 2012, 2 Jan 2013
• If you are a Super Intensive student, your classes will start at 1:30 pm on the first day (Monday) after the Orientation.
• If you are an Intensive student (morning program), your classes will start at 8:30 am on Tuesday.
• If you are an Intensive student (evening program), your classes will start at 4:30 pm on Tuesday.

Australian Public Holidays 2012:

• 2 Jan, 26 Jan, 6 Apr, 25 Apr, 11 Jun, 6 Aug, 1 Oct, 25-26 Dec

Orientation Day after Arrival:

• Monday: morning students arrive 8:15 AM, evening students arrive 3:30 PM.
• Bring: passport and a passport photo.
• Receive: Student Orientation Book, Sydney Map, CityRail Network Map, Activities Flyers.
• Interview and written test: to assess your English level.
• Enrolment agreement and student card: you’ll sign them.
• Information about: the school, classes, activities, and life in Australia.
• Short tour of: the school, its facilities, the area surrounding the school.
• After the Orientation: go home or ask further questions.
• Super Intensive students: start at 1:30 PM on Monday after the Orientation.
• Intensive students: start at 8:30 AM (morning class) or 4:30 PM (evening class) on Tuesday.

Paid work permission:

• You can work alongside this course.
• Students on Student Visa can work 20 hours per week.
• Students on Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa can work up to full-time.
• Job must not interfere with courses.
• For more details, check the “How it works” tab.

Accommodation:

• Home Stay with Australian families
• Student Guesthouse
• Your own-sourced accommodation
• See the “How it works” tab for more details
• See the “Prices” tab for the costs

Insurance

• You must be insured to participate
• Student Visa holders have to register with OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), the compulsory Australian student medical insurance.
• Working Holiday Visa holders will have to organise their own medical insurance.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own, in English
• APEX Foundation does not offer support with insurance

Important: Many insurance policies do not cover work. If you intend to work in Australia, make absolutely sure that your insurance covers any injuries sustained while working!

How it works

How the program works
from application to arrival

After you are accepted for the program and paid the fees, you receive a Letter of Acceptance.
If you are going to apply for the Student Visa, you will also receive an Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment form (e-CoE) which you need for your visa application. The accommodation department will also start arranging your accommodation. You will receive travel directions to your accommodation shortly after that. If you wish for a taxi to wait for you at the airport, you must supply your arrival details at least 2 weeks prior to your arrival. It is ideal to schedule your arrival for Saturday or Sunday around the noon time, or before. That way, even if your flight is delayed, which happens quite often, you reduce the likelihood of arriving late at night. On Monday morning at 8.15 am, you will attend your orientation and after that start your course.

Visa Types
what Visa you can apply for

Tourist Visa (Subclass 676)
If you are planning to do a course of 12 weeks or less, you can for a tourist visa. If you want to extend your visa after the course, you can, but you can extend it for tourist-only purposes for a second 3 months and sometimes further. It is illegal to work on a tourist visa. However, voluntary work for non-profit organisations is permitted.

Student Visa (Subclass 570)
You should apply for a student visa if you are planning to study for 13 weeks or more. This visa will allow you to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. Please check with the Australian embassy nearest you how much money you have to have available for covering your living costs in Australia in order to receive your visa. Ordinarily AU$ 18,000 is required for 1 year of study.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Students from Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, HKSAR, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan and United Kingdom can apply for this type of visa. This is a 12-month visa, which permits a maximum of 3 months study during the 12 months. The other 9 months allows you to work, however, you can not work for more than 6 months with any one employer.

Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
This visa is for people from Bangladesh, Chile, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey and the USA, who want to travel and work for up to 12 months in Australia. This visa allows you to supplement the cost of your holiday through periods of temporary or casual employment.

Locations
where you can go

Sydney
Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world (click for pictures). With a population of over 4 million people, Sydney has all the excitement of a big city but is surrounded by beaches and mountains. The relaxed lifestyle of Australians and the natural beauty of the country make Sydney a perfect destination for a young international traveler wishing to study English while enjoying life in a far-away coutry!

Accommodation
which one to choose

Many people don’t realize that accommodation cost about the same, if not more, than the program itself! This holds true in Australia, as well as in the UK and USA and other places. Choosing the right accommodation option is therefore an important decision.

This program can offer you a wide range of accommodation from self-catering student guesthouse to a full-board homestay with an Australian family. You are, of course, free to arrange your own accommodation too.

Home Stay – the best for learning

Home Stay with a local family is the best choice for learning a language! You will be talking with the family members in the morning as you get up, during breakfast and then in the evening. This is not like talking in a class at school! You will really practice your language skills, pick up new words and listen to the correct accent.

Homestay families live in houses, apartments or semi detached houses. Majority of the families live 30-50 minutes away from the language center.

Home Stay accommodation is available as Half-Board, which includes both breakfast and dinner (+ 3 meals on the weekends), No Meals with use of kitchen facilities (schedule arranged by family) or Twin Share, which is a private room shared with a travelling companion, breakfast and dinner and 3 meals on the weekends. For simplicity, we are only showing prices of HB, please ask about the remaining options.

Student Guesthouse

Student guesthouses are great for enjoying the company of your peers from many other countries in the world. This is ideal for a casual learner who doesn’t mind listening to equally imperfect English of his or her companions. Each residence contains a range of rooms, all with wireless Internet, TV and DVD or VCR player and wardrobe space. Each resident contains a courtyard area, TV room with cable television and a fully equipped kitchen. Every one of these guesthouses has its own unique trait.

Self-Arranged Accommodation

You are free to arrange your own accommodation. Maybe you have friends or relatives who live in Sydney with whom you can stay for free. Or perhaps you are applying as a group of friends and will rent a cheap apartment together.

A common strategy of students on budget is to pay for two or three weeks of the accommodation arranged by the program to have a place to stay after their arrival, and find a cheaper roomshare during this period.

Paid Work
alongside the course

Many participants are interested in the opportunity to having a paid job alongside the course. Partly they want to help cover their expenses, partly to practice their English, and partly to really feel like they are living in Australia.

Paid work is allowed, but job placement is not a part of this program! You have to find it yourself.

Check also Work and Travel, Work and Study or Internships if you are more interested in working than studying.

We remind you that students on a Tourist Visa are not allowed to work in Australia. If you come to Australia on a Student Visa, you must take up a full time course during the whole duration of your stay. You are allowed to work but only outside of these study hours, and a maximum of 20 hours per week. If you come on a Working Holiday Visa or Work & Holiday Visa (if your country is eligible), you are allowed to work full time for one year in Australia but must change employers after 6 months.

Importantly, any such employment happens outside this program and must not interfere with your classes! Otherwise you might be cancelled for non-attendance. Most students work in fast food, cafes, restaurants, and the like. These positions generally pay between AU$10 and AU$18 (see also the Australian Minimum Wage below), with deductions for taxes and any other services provided by the employer, for instance meals. If you get a position where you get tips, such as a waiter, you may make more money on the tips than what is your wage!

Financial Guide
how much it will all cost

This is not a promise! This is a guide intended to give you a general idea about some of the numbers. Your own experience may be different! We use the Australian Minimum Wage in our calculations, you may make more money than that. You may also be able to live more cheaply, for instance if you find yourself a roomshare with other students.

Let’s have a look at these two example scenarios:

SCENARIO 1

Visa: Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), or Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462)
Duration: 3 months of school (or about 12 weeks of school), 9 months of work (or about 36 weeks of work)
Course: Intensive, 20 hr/wk @ AU$290/wk
Accommodation: HomeStay single room @ AU$190/wk
Work: 40 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

52 weeks of accommodation = – AU$9,880
12 weeks of school = -AU$3,480
36 weeks of work = +AU$22,334

Under this scenario, you will be left with AU$8,974 to cover your other expenses, having fun in Australia and bringing some money back.

SCENARIO 2

Visa: Student Visa (subclass 570)
Duration: 6 months, about 25 weeks
Course: Intensive (morning class), 20 hr/wk @ AU$280/wk
Accommodation: HomeStay single room, half-board @ AU$190/wk
Work: 20 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

25 weeks of accommodation = – AU$4,750
25 weeks of school = -AU$7,000
25 weeks of work = +AU$7,755

Under this scenario, half year of quality language school and accommodation with one meal per day in Australia will cost you AU$3,995.

Comment: With the Intensive course, 20 hours of classes means just 4 hours of school every day. Even with having to prepare for the next day’s classes, this leaves you enough time for part-time work.

Try more scenarios and cost/income combinations yourself. All prices are shown on the “Prices” tab.

Eligibility

Age:	Min 18
Student status:	not required for applying
Experience:	n/a
Required languages:	English
Required level:	From Intermediate to Advanced*
Nationality:	Nationals of all countries are eligible
Type of visa:	Tourist Visa, Student Visa, Working Holiday Visa, Work and Holiday Visa

*Language placement test and assessment, carried out on day one, ensures that all students are in the right class and improve quickly.

Prices

Prices

• All fees are subject to change without notice.
• All bank transfer fees are born by the participant regardless of the direction of the transfer.
• If paying by bank transfer $30 should be added to invoice total in order to cover bank charges.

Application Processing Fee: AU$50
includes:

• Processing your program application
• Processing your payment to the program sponsor
• Transferring materials and communication between you and your program sponsor until your departure for Australia
• Responding to your email questions until your departure for Australia
• Check APEX Foundation Terms & Conditions for more details

*If booking the course for less than 7 weeks, the Application Processing Fee is AU$150.

Tuition:
AU$200 Enrollment Fee + weekly tuition in AU$

		2-10 wks	11-20 wks	21+ wks
Intensive (morning)	20 hrs/wk	300	290	280
Intensive (evening)	20 hrs/wk	250	240	230
Super-Intensive	25 hrs/wk	340	320	310

Prices include:

• Enrollment on the programme
• Initial test, evaluation and class placement
• Tuition for the chosen course option and number of weeks
• Monitoring and support throughout the placement (24-hour emergency student support)

Study Material:
one-time charge in AU$

2 – 8 weeks	70
9 – 17 weeks	140
18 – 30 weeks	210
31 + weeks	280

 

Insurance: AU$40/month
only applies to Student Visa holders

• Student Visa Holders must have Australian Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• The program sponsor will arrange this insurance for you.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own insurance in English.
• See “Key Points” for more details.

Accommodation
prices in AU$ per week

	Single room HB	Single room	Twin room HB*	Twin room*	Triple Room HB*	Triple Room*
HomeStay	250**	190**	220**	n/a	n/a	n/a
Student Guesthouse	n/a	265***	n/a	185***	n/a	150***

* Must be booked by students travelling together.
** minimum 2 weeks
***minimum 4 weeks

Accommodation Placement Fee: AU$180
One-time charge for booking the accommodation you selected.

Accommodation change after placement: AU$100
If you wish to change your accommodation and want the new one be arranged by the program sponsor.

Arrival Transfer*
optional

• Transfer between Sydney Airport and your accommodation
• Arrival: AU$110
• Departure: AU$70

*It is your responsibility to inform us of your arrival details minimum 14 working days prior to the transfer! Failing this, the transfer may not be provided as requested/paid. There is no refund for booked and unused arrival transfer. Arrival details include: arrival date, arrival airport, the airline, flight number and arrival time.

Cancellations & Refunds
if you have to cancel

• Application Processing Fee is not refundable
• Accommodation Placement Fee is not refundable
• Visa denial: Full refund of the paid Tuition less AU$100
• Cancellation by participant 28 days or more before the course starts: 85% of the Tuition refunded
• Cancellation by participant less than 28 days before the course starts: an 9 weeks’ Tuition is charged
• Cancellation by participant after the course starts: No refund
• Cancelling homestay accommodation requires at least 4 weeks notice, otherwise  2 weeks’ accommodation fee is charged.
• No fees can be refunded while you are in Australia
• Tuition fees are not transferable
• If any course is terminated before its commencement, course monies will be refunded in full.
• Per the ESOS Act 2000, if any course is terminated after the course commencement date, the school will arrange for the transfer of the student to another institution offering a similar course at no extra expense to the student. Alternatively, the student may elect to have course monies refunded.
• Refunds are transferred to participant within 8 weeks of APEX International, LLC.’s receipt of written notification.
• Instructions for transfer of the refund, regardless of the payment method, are used exactly as supplied by the participant. APEX International, LLC. bears no responsibility if the instructions are incorrect, incomplete or not understandable by any bank or other institution involved in transferring the funds. Bank fees plus $50 is charged if transfer of the refund must be repeated.

How to Apply

The procedure:

1. We email you a computer-fillable PDF application form with instructions.
2. Fill it out, save and email back to us, we will check that it’s done correctly.
3. If everything is done correctly, we will ask you to send us the hard copy by mail.
4. Get a AU$250 or AU$350 check (Traveler’s Check) for the Application Processing Fee and send the entire package to us.
5. Once your application is accepted you will get instructions for payment of the Program Fee.
6. We send your materials and payment over to the program sponsor.
7. After your application and payment have been confirmed, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance from the program sponsor.
8. If you are applying for the Student Visa, you will receive your e-CoE (Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment form).
9. Everybody receives Arrival Instructions.
10. Next, you arrange your flight and give us your detailed arrival information.
11. Ideal arrival day is Saturday, not too late in the case you’d need any kind of support.
12. After arrival in Sydney, you will travel to your accommodation.
13. On the first day (Monday) at 8:15 am the orientation will start.

It’s best to apply at least 2 months prior to your planned departure. Check with your local Australian embassy how long it will take you to get the your visa.

*The test hast to be completed hand-written.

FAQ

Overview

Unlike programs that include just the permission to work, the Work & Study program provides a range of services to assist you with finding paid work in Sydney. This is an exciting opportunity for anyone who wants to work and study in Australia and practice English in a normal everyday environment.

• Up to 3 job interviews in the hospitality industry
• Assistance with building a resume
• Establishing of a tax file number
• Work permission (for Student Visa holders)
• Help getting through all the bureaucracy and paperwork to start working

Job Essentials Courses
Get the qualifications you need to get solid job offers:

• Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) Certification
• Function Service Skills (FSS) Certificate Preparation Course
• Barista Training – This course offers professional training in espresso coffee making and the fundamentals of business management. A Certificate of Achievement is issued to all successful candidates.

English Classes
You will attend daily Intensive English classes for minimum of 8 weeks and follow a regular timetable from Monday to Friday. After your daily lessons you will attend to your job.

Key Points

Duration:

• 8 to 52 weeks, your choice

When to apply:

• At least 2 months prior to your desired program start date.

Locations:

• Sydney

Classes:

• Intensive English Course – 20 hrs/wk

Class size:

• In average 12 students

Schedule:

• 8:30 am – 12:50 pm or 8:30 am – 2:30 pm

Start dates 2012:

• 3 Jan, 30 Jan, 27 Feb, 26 Mar, 23 Apr, 21 May, 18 Jun, 16 Jul, 13 Aug, 10 Sept, 8 Oct, 5 Nov, 3 Dec 2012, 2 Jan 2013

Australian Public Holidays 2011:

• 2 Jan, 26 Jan, 6 Apr, 25 Apr, 11 Jun, 6 Aug, 1 Oct, 25-26 Dec

Orientation Day after Arrival:

• Monday: students arrive at 8:15 AM.
• Bring: passport and a passport photo.
• Receive: Student Orientation Book, Sydney Map, CityRail Network Map, Activities Flyers.
• Interview and written test: to assess your English level.
• Enrolment agreement and student card: you’ll sign them.
• Information about: the school, classes, activities, and life in Australia.
• Short tour of: the school, its facilities, the area surrounding the school.
• After the Orientation: go home or ask further questions.
• Classes start: at 8:30 AM on Tuesday after the Orientation.

Job Placement Service:

• You are guaranteed up to three job interviews in the hospitality industry.
• Job interviews will be held in the first 4 weeks of arrival or when a pre-intermediate level of English is attained.
• You will be matched with employers based on your requests and the employers’ needs and availability.
• Before the interview, you will be provided with a profile of the employer outlining the hours and tasks the employer would like you to undertake.

Job Placement Acceptance:

• You are required to complete all contractual documents and return them to the employer within 7 days.
• Applicants must supply the following to the employer: a copy of the student’s visa, a copy of the passport, a copy of the RSA certificate (if requested), a resume (if requested), bank account details and tax file number.
• IMPORTANT: The Work & Study program has met its obligations to the participant where three job interviews have been arranged, whether or not a job offer has been made.

Remuneration

• Average AU$ 12 – 18 per hour

Accommodation:

• Home Stay with Australian families
• Student Guesthouse
• Your own-sourced accommodation
• See the “How it works” tab for more details
• See the “Prices” tab for the costs

Insurance

• You must be insured to participate
• Student Visa holders have to register with OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), the compulsory Australian student medical insurance.
• Working Holiday Visa and Work and Holiday Visa holders will have to organise their own medical insurance.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own, in English
• APEX Foundation does not offer support with insurance

Important: Many insurance policies do not cover work. If you intend to work in Australia, make absolutely sure that your insurance covers any injuries sustained while working!

How it works

How it works
in short

You apply, pay, get your visa and fly to Australia. After you arrive, you start going to school. The school will arrange interviews with employers for you. After you are hired, you go to school in the morning and to work in the afternoon. See also the “Financial Guide” below.

Visa Types
what Visa you can apply for

Student Visa (Subclass 570)
Student Visa holders can study and undertake the Work & Study program for a maximum of 52 weeks, and they are limited to working 20 hours per week. It is important that Student Visa applicants understand that the primary purpose of the Student Visa is to enable students to study, not to work. Therefore, the work they undertake cannot interfere with or take priority over their study. Please check with the Australian embassy nearest you whether you are able to extend your student visa while you are in Sydney or not. Ordinarily AU$ 18,000 is required for 1 year of study.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Students from Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, HKSAR, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan and United Kingdom can apply for this type of visa. This is a 12-month visa, which permits a maximum of 16 weeks of study during the 12 months. The other 9 months allows you to work, however, you can not work for more than 6 months with any one employer. There are no restrictions to the number of working hours allowed.

Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
This visa is for people from Bangladesh, Chile, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey and the USA, who want to travel and work for up to 12 months in Australia. This visa allows you to supplement the cost of your holiday through periods of temporary or casual employment. There are no restrictions to the number of working hours allowed.

Locations
where you can go

Sydney
Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world (click for pictures). With a population of over 4 million people, Sydney has all the excitement of a big city but is surrounded by beaches and mountains. The relaxed lifestyle of Australians and the natural beauty of the country make Sydney a perfect destination for a young international traveler wishing to study English while enjoying life in a far-away country!

Accommodation
which one to choose

Many people don’t realize that accommodation cost about the same, if not more, than the program itself! This holds true in Australia, as well as in the UK and USA and other places. Choosing the right accommodation option is therefore an important decision.

This program can offer you a wide range of accommodation from self-catering student guesthouse to a full-board homestay with an Australian family. You are, of course, free to arrange your own accommodation too.

Home Stay – the best for learning

Home Stay with a local family is the best choice for learning a language! You will be talking with the family members in the morning as you get up, during breakfast and then in the evening. This is not like talking in a class at school! You will really practice your language skills, pick up new words and listen to the correct accent.

Homestay families live in houses, apartments or semi detached houses. Majority of the families live 30-50 minutes away from the language center.

Home Stay accommodation is available as Half-Board, which includes both breakfast and dinner (+ 3 meals on the weekends), No Meals with use of kitchen facilities (schedule arranged by family) or Twin Share, which is a private room shared with a travelling companion, breakfast and dinner and 3 meals on the weekends. For simplicity, we are only showing prices of HB and No Meals, please ask about the remaining options.

Student Guesthouse

Student guesthouses are great for enjoying the company of your peers from many other countries of the world. This is ideal for a casual learner who doesn’t mind listening to equally imperfect English of his or her companions. Each residence contains a range of rooms, all with wireless Internet, TV and DVD or VCR player and wardrobe space, as well as a courtyard area and a fully equipped kitchen. Every one of these guesthouses has its own unique trait.

Self-Arranged Accommodation

You are free to arrange your own accommodation. Maybe you have friends or relatives who live in Sydney with whom you can stay for free. Or perhaps you are applying as a group of friends and will rent a cheap apartment together.

A common strategy of students on budget is to pay for two or three weeks of the accommodation arranged by the program to have a place to stay after their arrival, and find a cheaper roomshare during this period.

Financial Guide
how much it will all cost

This is not a promise! This is a guide intended to give you a general idea about some of the numbers. Your own experience may be different! We use the Australian Minimum Wage in our calculations, you may make more money than that. You may also be able to live more cheaply, for instance if you find yourself a roomshare with other students.

Let’s have a look at these two example scenarios:

SCENARIO 1

Visa: Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), or Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462)
Duration: 3 months of school (or about 12 weeks of school), 9 months of work (or about 36 weeks of work)
Course: Intensive, 20 hr/wk @ AU$290/wk
Placement Fee: AU$400
Accommodation: HomeStay single room @ AU$190/wk
Work: 40 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

52 weeks of accommodation = – AU$9,880
12 weeks of school = -AU$3,480
Placement Fee = -AU$400
36 weeks of work = +AU$22,334

Under this scenario, you will be left with AU$8,574 to cover your other expenses, having fun in Australia and bringing some money back.

SCENARIO 2

Visa: Student Visa (subclass 570)
Duration: 6 months, about 25 weeks
Course: Intensive, 20 hr/wk @ AU$280/wk
Placement Fee: AU$400
Accommodation 1: HomeStay single room @ AU$190/wk for the first 4 weeks
Accommodation 2: A found roomshare @ AU$ 100 for the rest of the course
Work: 20 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

Your accommodation cost will be: (AU$190 * 4) + (AU$100 * 22) = AU$2,960
25 weeks of school = AU$280 * 25 weeks = AU$7,000
Placement Fee= -AU$400
25 weeks of work  = AU$15.51 * 20 hours * 25 weeks = AU$7,755

Under this scenario, half year of quality language school and accommodation with one meal per day in Australia will cost you AU$2,605.

Comment: With the Intensive course, 20 hours of classes means just 4 hours of school every day. Even with having to prepare for the next day’s classes, this leaves you enough time for part-time work.

Try more scenarios and cost/income combinations yourself. All prices are shown on the “Prices” tab.

Eligibility

Age:	Min 18
Student status:	not required for applying
Experience:	not needed
Required languages:	English
Required level:	From Pre-Intermediate*
Nationality:	Nationals of all countries are eligible
Type of visa:	Student Visa, Working Holiday Visa, Work and Holiday Visa

*If you do not reach the level, you will be required to take 2-4 weeks of Intensive General English (at an additional cost) before starting the program.

Prices

Prices

• All fees are subject to change without notice.
• All bank transfer fees are always born by the participant.
• If paying by bank transfer $30 should be added to invoice total in order to cover bank charges.

Application Processing Fee: AU$0
includes:

• Included in your English course fees
• Processing your program application
• Processing your payment to the program sponsor
• Transferring materials and communication between you and your program sponsor until your departure for Australia
• Responding to your email questions until your departure for Australia
• Check APEX Foundation Terms & Conditions for more details

Program Fee: AU$400*
includes:

• Enrollment on the programme
• Pre-enrolment entry test, evaluation and class placement
• Up to 3 job interviews in the hospitality industry
• Assistance with building a resume
• Establishing of a tax file number
• Work permission (for Student Visa holders)
• Job formalities
• Other information related to working in Australia
• Monitoring and support throughout the placement (24-hour emergency student support)

*Please add the costs of at least 8 weeks of the the intensive General English or Business English course.

Insurance: AU$40/month
only applies to Student Visa holders

• Student Visa Holders must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• The program sponsor can arrange this for you
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own
• See “Key Points” for more details

Accommodation
prices in AU$ per week

	Single room HB	Single room	Twin room HB*	Twin room*	Triple Room HB*	Triple Room*
HomeStay	250**	190**	220**	n/a	n/a	n/a
Student Guesthouse	n/a	265***	n/a	185***	n/a	150***

* Must be booked by students travelling together.
** minimum 2 weeks
***minimum 4 weeks

Accommodation Placement Fee: AU$180
One-time charge for booking the accommodation you selected.

Accommodation change after placement: AU$100
If you wish to change your accommodation and want the new one be arranged by the program sponsor.

Arrival Transfer*
optional

• Transfer between Sydney Airport and your accommodation
• Arrival: AU$110
• Departure: AU$70

*It is your responsibility to inform us of your arrival details minimum 14 working days prior to the transfer! Failing this, the transfer may not be provided as requested/paid. Arrival details include: arrival date, arrival airport, the airline, flight number and arrival time.

Miscellaneous Fees
not everybody pays them

• Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) Certification: AU$80
• Function Service Skills (FSS) Certificate Preparation Course: AU$90
• Barista Training: AU$90

Cancellations & Refunds
if you have to cancel

• The Application Processing Fee is not refundable
• The Accommodation Placement Fee is not refundable
• Visa denial: Full refund of the Program Fee
• Cancellation by participant at any stage: No refund
• No job offer after 3 job interviews: No refund
• If the participant rejects a job offer after succesful job interview: No refund
• Instructions for transfer of the refund, regardless of the payment method, are used exactly as supplied by the participant. APEX International, LLC. bears no responsibility if the instructions are incorrect, incomplete or not understandable by any bank or other institution involved in transferring the funds. Bank fees plus $50 is charged if transfer of the refund must be repeated.

How to Apply

The procedure:

1. We email you a PDF application form and pre-enrollment English test form.
2. Fill it out, pay the Application Processing Fee and email the PDFs back to us, we will check that everything is done correctly.
3. If everything is done correctly, we will ask you to send us the hard copies by mail.
4. Once your application is accepted you will get instructions for payment of the Program Fee/Tuition.
5. We send your materials and payment over to the program sponsor.
6. You will receive a Letter of Acceptance from the program sponsor.
7. If you are applying for the Student Visa, you will also receive your e-CoE (Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment form).
8. Apply for your visa.
9. Arrange your flight and give us your detailed arrival information.
10. Arrival Instructions are sent to you.
11. After arrival in Sydney, you will travel to your accommodation.
12. On the first day (Monday) at 8:15 am the orientation will start.

It’s best to apply at least 2 months prior to your planned departure. Check with your local Australian embassy how long it will take you to get the your visa.

*The test hast to be completed hand-written.

FAQ

Overview

Spend up to one year in Australia studying Intensive English classes at a quality language school, whilst living in a Sydney family helping them with childcare and light housework duties.

• Free accommodation
• Free meals
• AU$120 to AU$150 per week
• Most weekends free for sightseeing and socializing
• Support and counselling from Au Pair Coordinator at all times

Program Placement:

• Once you have been accepted in the program and all your payments have been received, the program sponsor will searching for your Au Pair Family.
• You will be provided with a profile of a family outlining the number of kids, location, interests and hobbies as well as the hours and tasks the family would like you to undertake.

Typical Au Pair Duties

• 20 hours per week, 4-5 hours per day
• Getting children ready for school, either dropping them off or picking them up from school, organising activities, preparing snacks and dinner, ensuring homework is completed, bedtime and bathing preparation.
• Laundry, cleaning, ironing, cooking, washing and grocery shopping.

English Classes
You will attend daily Intensive English classes and follow a regular timetable from Monday to Friday. After your daily lessons you will return to your Au Pair family.

Key Points

Duration:

• 12 to 52 weeks, your choice

When to apply:

• At least 3 months prior to your desired program start date.

Locations:

• Sydney

Classes:

• Intensive English Course – 20 hrs/wk

Class size:

• In average 12 students

Schedule:

• 8:30 am – 12:50 pm or 9:40 am – 2:30 pm

Start dates 2012:

• 3 Jan, 30 Jan, 27 Feb, 26 Mar, 23 Apr, 21 May, 18 Jun, 16 Jul, 13 Aug, 10 Sept, 8 Oct, 5 Nov, 3 Dec 2012, 2 Jan 2013

Australian Public Holidays 2011:

• 2 Jan, 26 Jan, 6 Apr, 25 Apr, 11 Jun, 6 Aug, 1 Oct, 25-26 Dec
• NOTE: A lot of families are away on vacation between December and mid-January as summer is the holiday period in Australia. You should be aware that if you begin your studies during this period, you might not be guaranteed of an immediate placement with a family.

Orientation Day after Arrival:

• Monday: students arrive at 8:15 AM.
• Bring: passport and a passport photo.
• Receive: Student Orientation Book, Sydney Map, CityRail Network Map, Activities Flyers.
• Interview and written test: to assess your English level.
• Enrolment agreement and student card: you’ll sign them.
• Information about: the school, classes, activities, and life in Australia.
• Short tour of: the school, its facilities, the area surrounding the school.
• After the Orientation: go home or ask further questions.
• Classes start:  at 8:30 AM on Tuesday after the Orientation.

Program Placement:

• Once you have been accepted in the program and all your payments have been received, the program sponsor will searching for your Au Pair Family.
• You will be provided with a profile of a family outlining the number of kids, location, interests and hobbies as well as the hours and tasks the family would like you to undertake.
• You are then asked to contact the family via email or set up a phone or skype call.
• NOTE: Sydney is a large, sprawling city and that there can be transfer times of approx. 1 hour one way. Transport times should not be a reason to reject a family placement.

Your Work Duties in the Au Pair Family

• 20 hours per week, 4-5 hours per day
• Childcare may include getting children ready for school, either dropping them off or picking them up from school, organising activities, preparing snacks and dinner, ensuring homework is completed, bedtime and bathing preparation.
• Light housework may include laundry, cleaning, ironing, cooking, washing and grocery shopping.

Remuneration

• Between AU$120 and AU$150 per week

Accommodation:

• Free, included in exchange for your housework assistance

Meals:

• Free, included in exchange for your housework assistance

Insurance

• You must be insured to participate
• Student Visa holders have to register with OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), the compulsory Australian student medical insurance.
• Working Holiday Visa and Work and Holiday Visa holders will have to organise their own medical insurance.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own, in English
• APEX Foundation does not offer support with insurance

Important: Many insurance policies do not cover work. If you intend to work in Australia, make absolutely sure that your insurance covers any injuries sustained while working!

How it works

Visa Types
what Visa you can apply for

Student Visa (Subclass 570)
Student Visa holders can study and do the Au Pair program for a maximum of 52 weeks, and they are limited to working 20 hours per week. Please check with the Australian embassy nearest you how much money you have to have available for covering your living costs in Australia in order to receive your visa. Ordinarily AU$ 18,000 is required for 1 year of study.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Students from Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, HKSAR, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan and United Kingdom can apply for this type of visa. With this visa you are only allowed to study and do the Au Pair program for a maximum of 16 weeks. There are no restrictions to the number of working hours allowed.

Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
This visa is for people from Bangladesh, Chile, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey and the USA, who want to travel and work for up to 12 months in Australia. This visa allows you to supplement the cost of your holiday through periods of temporary or casual employment. There are no restrictions to the number of working hours allowed.

Required Documentation
following documents must be provided

When applying to the Au Pair Program
Au Pair Program Entry Test
English Course Application Form
Au Pair Application Form
Resume Outlining childcare experience (can range from baby sitting to formal childcare work)
Photograph (smiling please)
Two checkable references (childcare related)

After Acceptance into the Program
Signed Au Pair Program Terms & Conditions
Introduction Letter about yourself, your family, work experience and your reasons for travel to Australia
Character Reference (optional)
Police Clearance Certificate
Medical certificate from a doctor stating your health condition
Photographs with children (smiling please)
Copy of your visa
Licence copy or translation of licence allowing you to drive in Australia

Locations
where you can go

Sydney
Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world (click for pictures). With a population of over 4 million people, Sydney has all the excitement of a big city but is surrounded by beaches and mountains. The relaxed lifestyle of Australians and the natural beauty of the country make Sydney a perfect destination for a young international traveler wishing to study English while enjoying life in a far-away country!

Financial Guide
how much it will all cost

This is not a promise! This is a guide intended to give you a general idea about some of the numbers. Your own experience may be different!

SCENARIO

Duration: 6 months of school and Au Pair (or about 25 weeks)
Course: Intensive, 20 hr/wk @ AU$280/wk
Accommodation: free
Work: 20 hrs/wk,  AU$135/wk

25 weeks of school = -AU$7,000
Au Pair Placement Fee = -Au$300
25 weeks of work = +AU$3,375

Under this scenario, half year of quality language school and accommodation with two meals per day (three on weekends) in Australia will cost you only AU$3,925.

Comment: If you have the Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa you are allowed to work full time. So in theory you could find yourself a second job and make more money.

Try more scenarios and cost/income combinations yourself. All prices are shown on the “Prices” tab.

Eligibility

Age:	Min 20
Student status:	not required for applying
Experience:	2 references about working with children, valid driver’s licence
Required languages:	English
Required level:	From Intermediate*
Nationality:	Nationals of all countries are eligible
Type of visa:	Student Visa, Working Holiday Visa, Work and Holiday Visa

*If you do not reach the level, you will be required to take 2-4 weeks of Super Intensive General English (at an additional cost) before starting with the Au Pair family.

Prices

Prices

• All fees are subject to change without notice.
• All bank transfer fees are always born by the participant.
• If paying by bank transfer $30 should be added to invoice total in order to cover bank charges.

Application Processing Fee: AU$0
includes:

• Included in your English course fees
• Processing your program application
• Processing your payment to the program sponsor
• Transferring materials and communication between you and your program sponsor until your departure for Australia
• Responding to your email questions until your departure for Australia
• Check APEX Foundation Terms & Conditions for more details

Placement Fee: AU$300*
includes:

• Enrollment on the programme
• Placement with a Au Pair host family
• Pre-enrolment entry test, evaluation and class placement
• Monitoring and support throughout the placement (24-hour emergency student support)
• If you request change of host family after 2 initial weeks have passed, you are required to pay another placement fee.

*Please add the costs of at least 8 weeks of the the intensive General English or Business English course.

Au Pair Goodwill Bond: AU$300
refundable, see below

• A goodwill bond is required in case any problems arise (if you decide to leave the family before the end of the program, if there is inappropriate use of the telephone and the Internet or if any material damage is caused by you).
• The bond will be refunded to you on completion of the program provided that the Terms and Conditions have been met and upon agreement by the Au Pair family.

Insurance: AU$40/month
only applies to Student Visa holders

• Student Visa Holders must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• The program sponsor  can arrange this for you
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own
• See “Key Points” for more details

Accommodation
prices in AU$ per week

• Free, included in exchange for your housework assistance

Homestay Security Deposit: AU$500
in case you need to stay elsewhere than with your family

• If you decide to arrive up to 2 weeks before your placement with your family is scheduled to start, for example to have a rest after the long trip without having to look after children straight away.
• If any unforeseen and unexpected circumstances keep the family from taking in you at the agreed date.
• If there is need for a change of family due to a serious disagreement between family and you.
• The deposit is refunded to the student if unused.

Arrival Transfer*
optional

• Transfer between Sydney Airport and your accommodation
• Arrival: AU$110
• Departure: AU$70

*It is your responsibility to inform us of your arrival details minimum 14 working days prior to the transfer! Failing this, the transfer may not be provided as requested/paid. Arrival details include: arrival date, arrival airport, the airline, flight number and arrival time.

Cancellations & Refunds
if you have to cancel

• Cancellation by participant: AU$500 Homestay Security Deposit is refunded if unused.
• Instructions for transfer of the refund, regardless of the payment method, are used exactly as supplied by the participant. APEX International, LLC. bears no responsibility if the instructions are incorrect, incomplete or not understandable by any bank or other institution involved in transferring the funds. Bank fees plus $50 is charged if transfer of the refund must be repeated.

How to Apply

The procedure:

1. We email you a PDF application form and pre-enrollment English test form.
2. Fill it out, pay the Application Processing Fee and email the PDFs back to us, we will check that everything is done correctly.
3. Collect, scan and email to us the first part of required documents (see “How it works” tab).
4. If everything is done correctly, we will ask you to send us all hard copies by mail.
5. We send your materials and Application Processing Fee payment over to the program sponsor.
6. Phone call from the Director of Studies to verify your English.
7. Once your application is accepted you will get instructions for payment of the Program Fee.
8. If you do not reach the necessary level of English, you will be required to take 2-4 weeks of Super Intensive General English (at an additional cost) before starting with the Au Pair family.
9. After your payment has been received, the program sponsor will send you Letter of Acceptance.
10. Collect and send to us the second part of required documents (see “How it works” tab).
11. If you are applying for the Student Visa, you will also receive your e-CoE (Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment form).
12. Apply for your visa.
13. Arrange your flight and give us your detailed arrival information.
14. Arrival Instructions are sent to you.
15. After arrival in Sydney, you will travel to your host family.
16. On the first day (Monday) at 8:15 am the orientation will start.

It’s best to apply at least 3 months prior to your planned departure. Check with your local Australian embassy how long it will take you to get the your visa.

*The test hast to be completed hand-written.

FAQ

Overview

The Business English Course isn’t just a language course! It is an extensive educational program intended for people who already speak English at at least intermediate level, and who want to be able to compete for professional positions in top international corporations. Have a look at the modules:

• Protocols and Cross-Cultural Awareness
• Communications and Writing Business Letters and E-mails
• Management Styles
• Negotiating
• Numbers and Working with Figures
• Sales and Marketing
• Customer Service and Complaint Handling
• Networking and Relationship Building

The focus is on vocabulary and topics used in the worlds of business, trade, finance, and international relations. Taught are language skills needed for typical business communication such as presentations, negotiations, meetings, small talk, correspondence, report writing, and so on.

Each unit covers specific vocabulary and expressions, reviews appropriate grammar points, provides reading and analytical studies and requires your participation in a range of creative problem solving, brainstorming and meeting activities.

As a truly global-oriented course, it will teach you how business cultures and conditions differ from one English speaking country to another, as well as cultural comparisons and how they affect the use of language.

Practice in a company in your field
This program can be combined with practicing your newly acquired language skills in real life by being placed in a company in Sydney. Organized in areas such as marketing, accounting, engineering, finance etc.

Key Points

Duration:

• 4 to 36 weeks, your choice

When to apply:

• At least 2 months prior to your desired program start date.

Locations:

• Sydney

Classes:

• Intensive English Course – 20 hrs/wk
• Super Intensive English Course – 25 hrs/wk

Class size:

• In average 12 students

Start dates 2012:

• 3 Jan, 30 Jan, 27 Feb, 26 Mar, 23 Apr, 21 May, 18 Jun, 16 Jul, 13 Aug, 10 Sept, 8 Oct, 5 Nov, 3 Dec 2012, 2 Jan 2013
• If you are a Super Intensive student, you may start your class at 1:30 pm on the first day (Monday) after the Orientation.
• If you are an Intensive student, your classes will start at 8:30 am on Tuesday.

Australian Public Holidays 2011:

• 2 Jan, 26 Jan, 6 Apr, 25 Apr, 11 Jun, 6 Aug, 1 Oct, 25-26 Dec

Orientation Day after Arrival:

• Monday morning students arrive 8:15 AM, evening students arrive 3:30 PM.
• Bring passport and a passport photo.
• Receive: Student Orientation Book, Sydney Map, CityRail Network Map, Activities Flyers.
• Interview and written test to assess your English level.
• Enrolment agreement and student card, you’ll sign them.
• Information about the school, classes, activities, and life in Australia.
• Short tour of the school, its facilities, the area surrounding the school.
• After the Orientation: go home or ask further questions.
• Super Intensive students start at 1:30 PM on Monday after the Orientation.
• Intensive students start at 8:30 AM on Tuesday.

Paid work permission:

• You can work alongside this course.
• Students on Student Visa can work 20 hours per week.
• Students on Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa can work up to full-time.
• Job must not interfere with courses.
• For more details, check the “How it works” tab.

Accommodation:

• Home Stay with Australian families
• Student Guesthouse
• Your own-sourced accommodation
• See the “How it works” tab for more details
• See the “Prices” tab for the costs

Insurance

• You must be insured to participate
• Student Visa holders have to register with OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), the compulsory Australian student medical insurance.
• Working Holiday Visa and Work and Holiday Visa holders will have to organise their own medical insurance.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own, in English
• APEX Foundation does not offer support with insurance

Important: Many insurance policies do not cover work. If you intend to work in Australia, make absolutely sure that your insurance covers any injuries sustained while working!

How it works

How the program works
from application to arrival

After you are accepted for the program and paid the fees, you receive a Letter of Acceptance.
If you are going to apply for the Student Visa, you will also receive an Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment form (e-CoE) which you need for your visa application. The accommodation department will also start arranging your accommodation. You will receive travel directions to your accommodation shortly after that. If you wish for a taxi to wait for you at the airport, you must supply your arrival details at least 2 weeks prior to your arrival. It is ideal to schedule your arrival for Saturday or Sunday around the noon time, or before. That way, even if your flight is delayed, which happens quite often, you reduce the likelihood of arriving late at night. On Monday morning at 8.15 am, you will attend your orientation and after that start your course.

Visa Types
what Visa you can apply for

Tourist Visa (Subclass 676)
If you are planning to do a course of 12 weeks or less, you can for a tourist visa. If you want to extend your visa after the course, you can, but you can extend it for tourist-only purposes for a second 3 months and sometimes further. It is illegal to work on a tourist visa. However, voluntary work for non-profit organisations is permitted.

Student Visa (Subclass 570)
You should apply for a student visa if you are planning to study for 13 weeks or more. This visa will allow you to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. Please check with the Australian embassy nearest you how much money you have to have available for covering your living costs in Australia in order to receive your visa. Ordinarily AU$ 18,000 is required for 1 year of study.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Students from Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, HKSAR, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan and United Kingdom can apply for this type of visa. This is a 12-month visa, which permits a maximum of 16 weeks of study during the 12 months. The other 9 months allows you to work, however, you can not work for more than 6 months with any one employer. There are no restrictions to the number of working hours allowed.

Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
This visa is for people from Bangladesh, Chile, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey and the USA, who want to travel and work for up to 12 months in Australia. This visa allows you to supplement the cost of your holiday through periods of temporary or casual employment. There are no restrictions to the number of working hours allowed.

Locations
where you can go

Sydney
Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world (click for pictures). With a population of over 4 million people, Sydney has all the excitement of a big city but is surrounded by beaches and mountains. The relaxed lifestyle of Australians and the natural beauty of the country make Sydney a perfect destination for a young international traveler wishing to study English while enjoying life in a far-away country!

Accommodation
which one to choose

Many people don’t realize that accommodation cost about the same, if not more, than the program itself! This holds true in Australia, as well as in the UK and USA and other places. Choosing the right accommodation option is therefore an important decision.

This program can offer you a wide range of accommodation from self-catering student guesthouse to a full-board homestay with an Australian family. You are, of course, free to arrange your own accommodation too.

Home Stay – the best for learning

Home Stay with a local family is the best choice for learning a language! You will be talking with the family members in the morning as you get up, during breakfast and then in the evening. This is not like talking in a class at school! You will really practice your language skills, pick up new words and listen to the correct accent.

Homestay families live in houses, apartments or semi detached houses. Majority of the families live 30-50 minutes away from the language center.

Home Stay accommodation is available as Half-Board, which includes both breakfast and dinner (+ 3 meals on the weekends), No Meals with use of kitchen facilities (schedule arranged by family) or Twin Share, which is a private room shared with a travelling companion, breakfast and dinner and 3 meals on the weekends. For simplicity, we are only showing prices of HB and No Meals, please ask about the remaining options.

Student Guesthouse

Student guesthouses are great for enjoying the company of your peers from many other countries of the world. This is ideal for a casual learner who doesn’t mind listening to equally imperfect English of his or her companions. Each residence contains a range of rooms, all with wireless Internet, TV and DVD or VCR player and wardrobe space, as well as a courtyard area and a fully equipped kitchen. Every one of these guesthouses has its own unique trait.

Self-Arranged Accommodation

You are free to arrange your own accommodation. Maybe you have friends or relatives who live in Sydney with whom you can stay for free. Or perhaps you are applying as a group of friends and will rent a cheap apartment together.

A common strategy of students on budget is to pay for two or three weeks of the accommodation arranged by the program to have a place to stay after their arrival, and find a cheaper roomshare during this period.

Paid Work
alongside the course

Many participants are interested in the opportunity to having a paid job alongside the course. Partly they want to help cover their expenses, partly to practice their English and partly to really feel like they are living in Australia.

Paid work is allowed, but job placement is not a part of this program! You have to find it yourself.

Check also Work and Travel, Work and Study or Internships if you are more interested in working than studying.

Let us remind you that students on a Tourist Visa are not allowed to work in Australia. If you come to Australia on the Student Visa, you must take up a full time course during the whole duration of your stay. You are allowed to work but only outside of these study hours, and a maximum of 20 hours per week. If you come on a Working Holiday Visa or Work & Holiday Visa (if your country is eligible), you are allowed to work full time for one year in Australia but must change employers after 6 months.

Importantly, any such employment happens outside this program and must not interfere with your classes! Otherwise you might be cancelled for non-attendance. Most students work in fast food, cafes, restaurants, and the like. These positions generally pay between AU$10 and AU$18 (see also the Australian Minimum Wage below), with deductions for taxes and any other services provided by the employer, for instance meals. If you get a position where you get tips, such as a waiter, you may make more money on the tips than what is your wage!

Financial Guide
how much it will all cost

This is not a promise! This is a guide intended to give you a general idea about some of the numbers. Your own experience may be different! We use the Australian Minimum Wage in our calculations, you may make more money than that. You may also be able to live more cheaply, for instance if you find yourself a roomshare with other students.

Let’s have a look at these two example scenarios:

SCENARIO 1

Visa: Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), or Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462)
Duration: 2 months of school, 10 months of work (or about 40 weeks of work)
Course: Intensive, 20 hr/wk @ AU$320/wk
Accommodation: HomeStay single room @ AU$190/wk
Work: 40 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

52 weeks of accommodation = – AU$9,880
9 weeks of school = -AU$2,880
40 weeks of work = +AU$24,816

Under this scenario, you will be left with AU$12,056 to cover your other expenses, having fun in Australia and bringing some money back.

SCENARIO 2

Visa: Student Visa (subclass 570)
Duration: 6 months, about 25 weeks
Course: Intensive, 20 hr/wk @ AU$320/wk
Accommodation: HomeStay single room @ AU$190/wk
Work: 20 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

25 weeks of accommodation = – AU$4,750
25 weeks of school = -AU$8,000
25 weeks of work = +AU$7,755

Under this scenario, half year of quality language school and accommodation with one meal per day in Australia will cost you AU$4,995.

Comment: With the Intensive course, 20 hours of classes means just 4 hours of school every day. Even with having to prepare for the next day’s classes, this leaves you enough time for part-time work.

Try more scenarios and cost/income combinations yourself. All prices are shown on the “Prices” tab.

Eligibility

Age:	Min 18
Student status:	not required for applying
Experience:	n/a
Required languages:	English
Required level:	From Intermediate to Advanced*
Nationality:	Nationals of all countries are eligible
Type of visa:	Tourist Visa, Student Visa, Working Holiday Visa, Work and Holiday Visa

*Language placement test and assessment, carried out on day one, ensures that all students are in the right class and improve quickly.

Prices

Prices

• All fees are subject to change without notice.
• All bank transfer fees are born by the participant regardless of the direction of the transfer.
• If paying by bank transfer $30 should be added to invoice total in order to cover bank charges.

Application Processing Fee: AU$50
includes:

• Processing your program application
• Processing your payment to the program sponsor
• Transferring materials and communication between you and your program sponsor until your departure for Australia
• Responding to your email questions until your departure for Australia
• Check APEX Foundation Terms & Conditions for more details

*If booking the course for less than 7 weeks, the Application Processing Fee is AU$150.

Tuition:
AU$200 Enrollment Fee + weekly tuition in AU$

Intensive	20 hrs/wk	320
Super-Intensive	25 hrs/wk	360

Prices include:

• Enrollment on the programme
• Initial test, evaluation and class placement
• Tuition for the chosen course option and number of weeks
• Monitoring and support throughout the placement (24-hour emergency student support)

Study Material:
one-time charge in AU$

2 – 8 weeks	70
9 – 17 weeks	140
18 – 30 weeks	210
31 + weeks	280

 

Insurance: AU$40/month
only applies to Student Visa holders

• Student Visa Holders must have Australian Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• The program sponsor will arrange this insurance for you.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own insurance in English.
• See “Key Points” for more details.

Accommodation
prices in AU$ per week

	Single room HB	Single room	Twin room HB*	Twin room*	Triple Room HB*	Triple Room*
HomeStay	250**	190**	220**	n/a	n/a	n/a
Student Guesthouse	n/a	265***	n/a	185***	n/a	150***

* Must be booked by students travelling together.
** minimum 2 weeks
***minimum 4 weeks

Accommodation Placement Fee: AU$180
One-time charge for booking the accommodation you selected.

Accommodation change after placement: AU$100
If you wish to change your accommodation and want the new one be arranged by the program sponsor.

Arrival Transfer*
optional

• Transfer between Sydney Airport and your accommodation
• Arrival: AU$110
• Departure: AU$70

*It is your responsibility to inform us of your arrival details minimum 14 working days prior to the transfer! Failing this, the transfer may not be provided as requested/paid. There is no refund for booked and unused arrival transfer. Arrival details include: arrival date, arrival airport, the airline, flight number and arrival time.

Cancellations & Refunds
if you have to cancel

• Application Processing Fee is not refundable
• Accommodation Placement Fee is not refundable
• Visa denial: Full refund of the paid Tuition less AU$100
• Cancellation by participant 28 days or more before the course starts: 85% of the Tuition is refunded
• Cancellation by participant less than 28 days before the course starts: an 9 weeks’ Tuition is charged
• Cancellation by participant after the course starts: No refund
• Cancelling homestay accommodation requires at least 4 weeks notice, otherwise  2 weeks’ accommodation fee is charged.
• No fees can be refunded while you are in Australia
• Tuition fees are not transferable
• If any course is terminated before its commencement, course monies will be refunded in full.
• Per the ESOS Act 2000, if any course is terminated after the course commencement date, the school will arrange for the transfer of the student to another institution offering a similar course at no extra expense to the student. Alternatively, the student may elect to have course monies refunded.
• Refunds are transferred to participant within 8 weeks of APEX International, LLC.’s receipt of written notification.
• Instructions for transfer of the refund, regardless of the payment method, are used exactly as supplied by the participant. APEX International, LLC. bears no responsibility if the instructions are incorrect, incomplete or not understandable by any bank or other institution involved in transferring the funds. Bank fees plus $50 is charged if transfer of the refund must be repeated.

How to Apply

The procedure:

1. We email you a PDF application form and pre-enrollment English test form*.
2. Fill it out, pay the Application Processing Fee and email the PDFs back to us, we will check that everything is done correctly.
3. If everything is done correctly, we will ask you to send us the hard copies by mail.
4. Once your application is accepted you will get instructions for payment of the Program Fee/Tuition.
5. We send your materials and payment over to the program sponsor.
6. You will receive a Letter of Acceptance from the program sponsor.
7. If you are applying for the Student Visa, you will also receive your e-CoE (Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment form).
8. Apply for your visa.
9. Arrange your flight and give us your detailed arrival information.
10. Arrival Instructions are sent to you.
11. After arrival in Sydney, you will travel to your accommodation.
12. On the first day (Monday) at 8:15 am the orientation will start.

It’s best to apply at least 2 months prior to your planned departure. Check with your local Australian embassy how long it will take you to get the your visa.

*The test hast to be completed hand-written.

FAQ

Overview

From Beginner through Advanced
Beginners start with practical survival English, such as the language for shopping, finding accommodation or a job. At the higher levels you will learn to take part in discussions of complicated topics as well as using idioms and slang in social conversations.

Paid job allowed
Students of this course on Student Visa can work 20 hours per week. Students on Working Holiday Visa can work max 9 months. Most students work in cafes, fast-food and restaurants making about AU$10-AU$18 per hour. Check our “Financial Guide” on the “How it works” tab.

Exciting add-on courses
Add them to your Super Intensive English Course:

• Business English
• Academic Writing Skills
• Cambridge Grammar
• TOEIC Preparation
• Grammar in Context
• Conversation
• Pronunciation
• Current Affairs
• General Writing Skills

Apply with a friend
This program allows you to easily apply with friend or even a group of friends. Simply book the same course and accommodation and you are done. If you want to save, you can book twin or triple rooms to stay together.

Key Points

Duration:

• 2 to 52 weeks, your choice

When to apply:

• At least 2 months prior to your desired program start date.

Locations:

• Sydney

Classes:

• Intensive English Course – 20 hrs/wk (evening program possible)
• Super Intensive English Course – 25 hrs/wk

Class size:

• In average 12 students

Start dates 2012:

• 3 Jan, 30 Jan, 27 Feb, 26 Mar, 23 Apr, 21 May, 18 Jun, 16 Jul, 13 Aug, 10 Sept, 8 Oct, 5 Nov, 3 Dec 2012, 2 Jan 2013
• If you are a Super Intensive student, you may start your class at 1:30 pm on the first day (Monday) after the Orientation.
• If you are an Intensive student (morning program), your classes will start at 8:30 am on Tuesday.
• If you are an Intensive student (evening program), your classes will start at 4:30 pm on Tuesday.

Australian Public Holidays 2011:

• 2 Jan, 26 Jan, 6 Apr, 25 Apr, 11 Jun, 6 Aug, 1 Oct, 25-26 Dec

Orientation Day after Arrival:

• Monday: morning students arrive 8:15 AM, evening students arrive 3:30 PM.
• Bring: passport and a passport photo.
• Receive: Student Orientation Book, Sydney Map, CityRail Network Map, Activities Flyers.
• Interview and written test: to assess your English level.
• Enrolment agreement and student card: you’ll sign them.
• Information about: the school, classes, activities, and life in Australia.
• Short tour of: the school, its facilities, the area surrounding the school.
• After the Orientation: go home or ask further questions.
• Super Intensive students: start at 1:30 PM on Monday after the Orientation.
• Intensive students: start at 8:30 AM (morning class) or 4:30 PM (evening class) on Tuesday.

Paid work permission:

• You can work alongside this course.
• Students on Student Visa can work 20 hours per week.
• Students on Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa can work up to full-time.
• Job must not interfere with courses.
• For more details, check the “How it works” tab.

Accommodation:

• Home Stay with Australian families
• Student Guesthouse
• Your own-sourced accommodation
• See the “How it works” tab for more details
• See the “Prices” tab for the costs

Insurance

• You must be insured to participate
• Student Visa holders have to register with OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), the compulsory Australian student medical insurance.
• Working Holiday Visa and Work and Holiday Visa holders will have to organise their own medical insurance.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own, in English
• APEX Foundation does not offer support with insurance

Important: Many insurance policies do not cover work. If you intend to work in Australia, make absolutely sure that your insurance covers any injuries sustained while working!

How it works

Visa Types
what Visa you can apply for

Tourist Visa (Subclass 676)
If you are planning to do a course of 12 weeks or less, you can for a tourist visa. If you want to extend your visa after the course, you can, but you can extend it for tourist-only purposes for a second 3 months and sometimes further. It is illegal to work on a tourist visa. However, voluntary work for non-profit organisations is permitted.

Student Visa (Subclass 570)
You should apply for a student visa if you are planning to study for 13 weeks or more. This visa will allow you to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. Please check with the Australian embassy nearest you how much money you have to have available for covering your living costs in Australia in order to receive your visa. Ordinarily AU$ 18,000 is required for 1 year of study.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Students from Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, HKSAR, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan and United Kingdom can apply for this type of visa. This is a 12-month visa, which permits a maximum of 16 weeks of study during the 12 months. The other 9 months allows you to work, however, you can not work for more than 6 months with any one employer. There are no restrictions to the number of working hours allowed.

Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
This visa is for people from Bangladesh, Chile, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey and the USA, who want to travel and work for up to 12 months in Australia. This visa allows you to supplement the cost of your holiday through periods of temporary or casual employment. There are no restrictions to the number of working hours allowed.

Locations
where you can go

Sydney
Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world (click for pictures). With a population of over 4 million people, Sydney has all the excitement of a big city but is surrounded by beaches and mountains. The relaxed lifestyle of Australians and the natural beauty of the country make Sydney a perfect destination for a young international traveler wishing to study English while enjoying life in a far-away country!

Accommodation
which one to choose

Many people don’t realize that accommodation cost about the same, if not more, than the program itself! This holds true in Australia, as well as in the UK and USA and other places. Choosing the right accommodation option is therefore an important decision.

This program can offer you a wide range of accommodation from self-catering student guesthouse to a full-board homestay with an Australian family. You are, of course, free to arrange your own accommodation too.

Home Stay – the best for learning

Home Stay with a local family is the best choice for learning a language! You will be talking with the family members in the morning as you get up, during breakfast and then in the evening. This is not like talking in a class at school! You will really practice your language skills, pick up new words and listen to the correct accent.

Homestay families live in houses, apartments or semi detached houses. Majority of the families live 30-50 minutes away from the language center.

Home Stay accommodation is available as Half-Board, which includes both breakfast and dinner (+ 3 meals on the weekends), No Meals with use of kitchen facilities (schedule arranged by family) or Twin Share, which is a private room shared with a travelling companion, breakfast and dinner and 3 meals on the weekends. For simplicity, we are only showing prices of HB and No Meals, please ask about the remaining options.

Student Guesthouse

Student guesthouses are great for enjoying the company of your peers from many other countries of the world. This is ideal for a casual learner who doesn’t mind listening to equally imperfect English of his or her companions. Each residence contains a range of rooms, all with wireless Internet, TV and DVD or VCR player and wardrobe space, as well as a courtyard area and a fully equipped kitchen. Every one of these guesthouses has its own unique trait.

Self-Arranged Accommodation

You are free to arrange your own accommodation. Maybe you have friends or relatives who live in Sydney with whom you can stay for free. Or perhaps you are applying as a group of friends and will rent a cheap apartment together.

A common strategy of students on budget is to pay for two or three weeks of the accommodation arranged by the program to have a place to stay after their arrival, and find a cheaper roomshare during this period.

Paid Work
alongside the course

Many participants are interested in the opportunity to having a paid job alongside the course. Partly they want to help cover their expenses, partly to practice their English and partly to really feel like they are living in Australia.

Paid work is allowed, but job placement is not a part of this program! You have to find it yourself.

Check also Work and Travel, Work and Study or Internships if you are more interested in working than studying.

Let us remind you that students on a Tourist Visa are not allowed to work in Australia. If you come to Australia on the Student Visa, you must take up a full time course during the whole duration of your stay. You are allowed to work but only outside of these study hours, and a maximum of 20 hours per week. If you come on a Working Holiday Visa or Work & Holiday Visa (if your country is eligible), you are allowed to work full time for one year in Australia but must change employers after 6 months.

Importantly, any such employment happens outside this program and must not interfere with your classes! Otherwise you might be cancelled for non-attendance. Most students work in fast food, cafes, restaurants, and the like. These positions generally pay between AU$10 and AU$18 (see also the Australian Minimum Wage below), with deductions for taxes and any other services provided by the employer, for instance meals. If you get a position where you get tips, such as a waiter, you may make more money on the tips than what is your wage!

Financial Guide
how much it will all cost

This is not a promise! This is a guide intended to give you a general idea about some of the numbers. Your own experience may be different! We use the Australian Minimum Wage in our calculations, you may make more money than that. You may also be able to live more cheaply, for instance if you find yourself a roomshare with other students.

Let’s have a look at these two  example scenarios:

SCENARIO 1

Visa: Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), or Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462)
Duration: 3 months of school (or about 12 weeks of school), 9 months of work (or about 36 weeks of work)
Course: Intensive, 20 hr/wk @ AU$290/wk
Accommodation: HomeStay single room @ AU$190/wk
Work: 40 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

52 weeks of accommodation = – AU$9,880
12 weeks of school = -AU$3,480
36 weeks of work = +AU$22,334

Under this scenario, you will be left with AU$8,974 to cover your other expenses, having fun in Australia and bringing some money back.

SCENARIO 2

Visa: Student Visa (subclass 570)
Duration: 6 months, about 25 weeks
Course: Intensive (morning class), 20 hr/wk @ AU$280/wk
Accommodation: HomeStay single room, half-board @ AU$190/wk
Work: 20 hrs/wk @ AU$15.51/hr

25 weeks of accommodation = – AU$4,750
25 weeks of school = -AU$7,000
25 weeks of work = +AU$7,755

Under this scenario, half year of quality language school and accommodation with one meal per day in Australia will cost you AU$3,995.

Comment: With the Intensive course, 20 hours of classes means just 4 hours of school every day. Even with having to prepare for the next day’s classes, this leaves you enough time for part-time work.

Try more scenarios and cost/income combinations yourself. All prices are shown on the “Prices” tab.

Eligibility

Age:	Min 18
Student status:	not required for applying
Experience:	n/a
Required languages:	English
Required level:	Elementary to Advanced*
Nationality:	Nationals of all countries are eligible
Type of visa:	Tourist Visa, Student Visa, Working Holiday Visa, Work and Holiday Visa

*Language placement test and assessment, carried out on day one, ensures that all students are in the right class and improve quickly.

Prices

Prices

• All fees are subject to change without notice.
• All bank transfer fees are born by the participant regardless of the direction of the transfer.
• If paying by bank transfer $30 should be added to invoice total in order to cover bank charges.

Application Processing Fee: AU$50
includes:

• Processing your program application
• Processing your payment to the program sponsor
• Transferring materials and communication between you and your program sponsor until your departure for Australia
• Responding to your email questions until your departure for Australia
• Check APEX Foundation Terms & Conditions for more details

*If booking the course for less than 7 weeks, the Application Processing Fee is AU$150.

Tuition:
AU$200 Enrollment Fee + weekly tuition in AU$

		2-10 wks	11-20 wks	21+ wks
Intensive (morning)	20 hrs/wk	300	290	280
Intensive (evening)	20 hrs/wk	250	240	230
Super-Intensive	25 hrs/wk	340	320	310

Prices include:

• Enrollment on the programme
• Initial test, evaluation and class placement
• Tuition for the chosen course option and number of weeks
• Monitoring and support throughout the placement (24-hour emergency student support)

Study Material:
one-time charge in AU$

2 – 8 weeks	70
9 – 17 weeks	140
18 – 30 weeks	210
31 + weeks	280

 

Insurance: AU$40/month
only applies to Student Visa holders

• Student Visa Holders must have Australian Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• The program sponsor will arrange this insurance for you.
• Holders of other visas can buy the sponsor-arranged insurance or enclose a proof of their own insurance in English.
• See “Key Points” for more details.

Accommodation
prices in AU$ per week

	Single room HB	Single room	Twin room HB*	Twin room*	Triple Room HB*	Triple Room*
HomeStay	250**	190**	220**	n/a	n/a	n/a
Student Guesthouse	n/a	265***	n/a	185***	n/a	150***

* Must be booked by students travelling together.
** minimum 2 weeks
***minimum 4 weeks

Accommodation Placement Fee: AU$180
One-time charge for booking the accommodation you selected.

Accommodation change after placement: AU$100
If you wish to change your accommodation and want the new one be arranged by the program sponsor.

Arrival Transfer*
optional

• Transfer between Sydney Airport and your accommodation
• Arrival: AU$110
• Departure: AU$70

*It is your responsibility to inform us of your arrival details minimum 14 working days prior to the transfer! Failing this, the transfer may not be provided as requested/paid. There is no refund for booked and unused arrival transfer. Arrival details include: arrival date, arrival airport, the airline, flight number and arrival time.

Cancellations & Refunds
if you have to cancel

• Application Processing Fee is not refundable
• Accommodation Placement Fee is not refundable
• Visa denial: Full refund of the paid Tuition less AU$100
• Cancellation by participant 28 days or more before the course starts: 85% of the Tuition is refunded
• Cancellation by participant less than 28 days before the course starts: an 9 weeks’ Tuition is charged
• Cancellation by participant after the course starts: No refund
• Cancelling homestay accommodation requires at least 4 weeks notice, otherwise  2 weeks’ accommodation fee is charged.
• No fees can be refunded while you are in Australia
• Tuition fees are not transferable
• If any course is terminated before its commencement, course monies will be refunded in full.
• Per the ESOS Act 2000, if any course is terminated after the course commencement date, the school will arrange for the transfer of the student to another institution offering a similar course at no extra expense to the student. Alternatively, the student may elect to have course monies refunded.
• Refunds are transferred to participant within 8 weeks of APEX International, LLC.’s  receipt of written notification.
• Instructions for transfer of the refund, regardless of the payment method, are used exactly as supplied by the participant. APEX International, LLC. bears no responsibility if the instructions are incorrect, incomplete or not understandable by any bank or other institution involved in transferring the funds. Bank fees plus $50 is charged if transfer of the refund must be repeated.

How to Apply

The procedure:

1. We email you a PDF application form and pre-enrollment English test form.
2. Fill it out, pay the Application Processing Fee and email the PDFs back to us, we will check that everything is done correctly.
3. If everything is done correctly, we will ask you to send us the hard copies by mail.
4. Once your application is accepted you will get instructions for payment of the Program Fee/Tuition.
5. We send your materials and payment over to the program sponsor.
6. You will receive a Letter of Acceptance from the program sponsor.
7. If you are applying for the Student Visa, you will also receive your e-CoE (Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment form).
8. Apply for your visa.
9. Arrange your flight and give us your detailed arrival information.
10. Arrival Instructions are sent to you.
11. After arrival in Sydney, you will travel to your accommodation.
12. On the first day (Monday) at 8:15 am the orientation will start.

It’s best to apply at least 2 months prior to your planned departure. Check with your local Australian embassy how long it will take you to get the your visa.

*The test hast to be completed hand-written.

FAQ