As a native English language teacher, I am continually asked for advice on how to learn English. Myself and other teachers could provide a list containing hundreds of suggestions but I have concentrated on what I consider to be the most important. Implementing these simple tips will give you the best chance to learn English.

1. Study with a qualified, experienced, engaging English language teacher

I have been a language learner (Spanish, Greek) and also an English language teacher. In my opinion it is vital to employ a teacher that is qualified, experienced and engaging to maximise your learning potential.

Qualified

The quality of the educator is very important. Anyone can call themselves an English teacher as there is no official, internationally recognised qualification to be an English teacher. Most language schools require the teacher to have undertaken Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) course. However, the quality of the qualification and the training varies markedly between training courses. Some only require a minimal number of hours doing a low quality course online without any practical experience.

Other courses provide very good training, the most notable is CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) and the more advanced DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from Cambridge. Their courses include both theory and practical https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/teaching-english/teaching-qualifications/celta/.

Many universities offer TESOL programs either as a minor for an undergraduate degree or as a post graduate degree. Some of the courses include a practical component. I personally chose the post graduate university pathway and have a Masters in Applied Linguistics focusing on teaching TEasOL and the structure of language. Other teachers have a Bachelor degree and CELTA. Either of these options is fine but I wouldn’t pay someone who has only completed an online TEFL course.

Experienced

More important than the teaching qualification is the experience the teacher has. An experienced teacher that has proven experience teaching English at a formal language school should always be preferred over someone who doesn’t. I am a much better language teacher now than what I first began, even though I 30was qualified, because I have learnt by experience what are the best methods to teach grammar, vocabulary, writing, reading and pronunciation. Having this experience is vital to being a good teacher.

Engaging

Having an engaging teacher can make learning fun and interesting, which helps you remember things better. Engaging teachers use exciting ways to teach, and their enthusiasm can inspire you to keep trying even when it gets tough. I know from my experience as a language learner and as a language teacher the importance of making things interesting. Along with being engaging a good teacher can explain complex grammar in a simple to understand way.

2. Use a recognised curriculum

Using curriculum that is developed and written by TESOL professionals will make your learning easier and more enjoyable. Well organised books will take you on a learning journey from beginner level to advanced level with each level book building on the grammar, vocabulary and writing techniques from the previous book. Some of the most popular curricula used in recognised language schools around the world include English File; Speak out; Cutting Edge; Keynote amongst others. I have personally taught from each of these curricula and each has their pros and cons but I recommend English File and Speak Out.

For a list of some popular online ESL curricula check out this site https://onlineteacherdude.com/online-esl-curriculum/

3. Don’t be lazy – Do extra study

I am constantly reminding my students of the importance of doing extra study or practice outside of the classroom. This may be via homework given by the teacher, extra writing practice that can be corrected by a teacher or a native English speaker that can provide feedback on how to correct the error and improve writing style.

Some students take advantage of online courses, usually on YouTube or language learning Apps. There are many great websites to help people learn English. Two of my many favourite sites are perfect-english-grammar.com and learnenglish.bristishcouncil.org A very popular App that I recommend to my students is Duolingo. Check out this list of popular websites and Apps compiled by Jesse Beck: https://www.fluentu.com/blog/english/best-websites-to-learn-english/

Some other free activities I encourage my students to do is read articles in English on your favourite topic, read children’s books in English, watch movies with subtitles in your language first then with English subtitles, talk with native English speakers, join a social club that speaks in English, join an online speaking group. Think of something you are interested in and do it in English.

4. Speak English all the time: if you use English you’ll remember it

The principle reason to learn a language is to be able to communicate with other people using the language. Be BRAVE and speak! Speaking a language is the most important thing you can do to learn the language. I continually encourage my students to speak in English irrespective of the size of their vocabulary. Using the words reinforces them and builds confidence when using other vocabulary. You will make mistakes but the more you speak the less mistakes you will make. Speak with your friends, family, colleagues and other language learners in English even if they speak the same language as you. When we speak we also have to listen, which of course helps improve out listening skills.

Check out this YouTube presentation by Tania where she provides a list of free websites you can use to practice speaking English, some of which are with native English speakers ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xI7br9a__b0

5. Pay attention to grammar and syntax

Students typically fall into one of two camps when it comes to studying grammar: they either love it or hate it, with little middle ground. However, focusing on grammar is crucial for mastering correct tenses (past, present, and future), ensuring subject-verb agreement (e.g., “he is a man” instead of “he are a man”), and understanding singular and plural agreement (e.g., “she has three cats” instead of “she has three cat”). Proficiency in these grammatical aspects significantly enhances the speed and accuracy of language learning.

Syntax, or word order, is another vital element for effective English learning. English follows the standard word order of Subject – Verb – Object, and it also places adjectives before nouns as a standard practice. Placing your words in the correct order greatly enhances your chances of being understood, particularly when speaking.

Among the most challenging areas for students to grasp in English are articles (a, an, the), which can be particularly complex, especially for those whose native languages lack articles; prepositions (on, at, in, etc.); and phrasal verbs (e.g., sit down, put on), which often involve prepositions.

To help you practice these skills, here are some recommended websites:

1. British Council – Learn English
2. Perfect English Grammar
3. English Club

6. Increase your vocabulary daily

Regularly read various materials such as books, online newspapers, articles, and blogs etc. to expose yourself to different vocabulary. Start with children’s books as the vocabulary is simpler and the pictures help to identify words in their context (it’s a great excuse to read your favourite children’s books in English). Then move gradually to more difficult materials – reading about things you are interested in makes reading more enjoyable. Write down the new words in a notebook or digital document along with their meanings and then practice using them in sentences.

Utilizing flashcards is an effective technique. Create cards with words on one side and their definitions or the same word in your language on the other side. Practice saying them regularly to reinforce memory. Checkout Quizlet, an app offering flashcards, quizzes, and games for vocabulary learning. Duolingo, also includes vocabulary-building exercises suitable for various English levels.

Chatting with native English speakers exposes you to new words in practical situations. Lastly, make vocabulary learning enjoyable by playing word games like Scrabble, Boggle, or online quizzes. These interactive activities make vocabulary leaning more fun.

7. Be patient: everyone learns at different speads

People learn English at different speeds. It’s OK to learn slower than other people, it’s NOT a race. There are several factors that determine how fast someone learns a new language including, language aptitude, age, previous languages etc. It takes the average person up to 600 hours of teacher guided learning to complete Upper Intermediate (B2 level).

A common mistake students make is to rush into exam preparation courses like IELTS and Cambridge before they have an adequate knowledge of English. In my opinion the ideal study plan is to successfully complete upper intermediate (or preferably higher) in a General English course before moving to the exam preparation courses. As can be seen by the comparison chart, students who are at B1 level (Intermediate) will get on average a 4.5-5.0 IELTS score. Check out the CEFR website https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/ and Cambridge https://www.cambridgeenglish.org// and IELTS https://ielts.org/

Australia is a fabulous place to study and currently there are more than 500,000 international students who have made the decision to leave their home country and study in Australia. I have been involved in international education for more than 20 years and I often ask my students why they chose to study in Australia and not in other countries like Canada, England, New Zealand and the United Sates. Their answers vary however there are a number of common reasons. I have complied this list to help anyone who is thinking of studying in Australia and wants to know why other students chose to study here. I hope you find this helpful in your study journey,

1. World class education: Universities, Language Schools, VET courses

Australia is known for its world-class education system, offering top-ranking universities, colleges and language schools. Australian Universities consistently rank highly in the various Ranking Systems. Here are the top ranked Australian Universities for 2024 according to QS World University Rankings,. Each ranking company uses different criteria to ascertain the University’s ranking including; Times Higher Education World University Rankings, and Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). In total Australia has 15 Universities ranked I the top 200 in the world (Source: QS World Rankings).

QS World University Rankings 2024

1. University of Melbourne – 14
2. University of New South Wales (UNSW) =19
3. University of Sydney =19
4. Australian National University (ANU) – 34
5. Monash University – 42
6. University of Queensland – 43
7. University of Western Australia (UWA) – 72
8. University of Adelaide – 89
9. University of Technology Sydney (UTS) – 90

Additionally, Australia is one of the premier locations to learn English. There are many exceptional language schools that have great facilities and world class teachers.

The Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector also offers high quality training for students who wish to be involved in practical vocations including: construction, mechanic, child care, enrolled nursing, aged care, introductory business courses etc. The largest VET training in Australia is TAFE (Technical And Further Education) check out TAFE Queensland; TAFE Victoria; TAFE New South Wales

2. English speaking country

“We get to speak English” is the answer almost every student gives me when I ask them why they chose to study in Australia. It is an obvious reason! Being able to practice and hopefully perfect your English whilst you live in Australia allows many students to gain better paying jobs when they return to their country.

3. Work Opportunities

Australia is one of the few countries that allows international students to work while they study. Currently, students can work up to 24 hours per week. This is a major reason why so many students choose to study in Australia, particularly those who come from South America and need to work to pay for their education.

The current minimum pay rate for a worker in Australia at the moment is $23.23 per hour for permanent employees and $29.04 for casual workers.

4. A friend or family member who lives in Australia or studied here before.

My friend lives here, my family member lives here, my friend studied here. These are also a very common reasons for choosing to study in Australia. I have lived in various countries around the world and I understand how much easier it is when you have friends or family to help you.

5. Lifestyle

Australia has an awesome, laidback lifestyle. Going to the beach, having a BBQ, clubbing and just hanging out with friends. International students adapt very quickly to life in Australia and many choose to live here permanently. The state of Queensland is particularly attractive to those who like warmer climates as they can enjoy the weather and visit the stunning beautiful beaches all year.

6. Weather

Overwhelmingly students, particularly form South America, tell me they chose Australia Canada and New Zealand because of the weather. Australia has diverse weather patterns depending on which part of Australia you are in. Cairns is hot all year round, Brisbane is warm in winter and hot in summer whilst Melbourne is cold in winter and hot in summer. A really useful Webpage and App is BOM (Bureau of Meteorology). It provides information about the temperatures in Australia.

The state of Queensland is particularly attractive to those who like warmer climates as they can enjoy the weather and visit the stunning beautiful beaches all year.

7. Similar time zone

Many students from South East Asia, particularly Japan, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Philippines etc. say it was a factor when choosing Australia. They can talk with their family and friends in the same time zone or only a few hours difference. Knowing that friend or parents are awake and free to chat at the same time as you is encouraging.

8. Travel

“I want to travel in Australia.” Many students who are studying in a language school do so because they want to gain enough English so they can travel all over Australia. I have had students tell me about all the towns and cities they have been to many of which I have never been to. I am a little jealous because I love travelling too.

Start your educational journey to Australia

Once you have made the decision to study in Australia you will need to choose an educational agent that will help you through the process. Click here to find an amazing education agent that will provide you with extra services not just the basic visa processing.

After making the decision to come to Australia to study one of the first things international students need to do is decide which Education Agent they will use. There are literally thousands of Education Agents that send students to Australia and trying to find a good education agent that will provide accurate information, offer personal service and provide assistance during the application process and once you have arrived in Australia is not easy.

First, we need to know what services a good education agent offers. I wrote a very informative article about this topic which I recommend you read before choosing an education agent. Some are very helpful and supportive while others only offer the basic services. Some examples of extras services include help with: opening a bank account; getting a TFN; writing a resume; purchasing a Sim card; getting an RSA, White Card; providing a mail service, providing airport pick up service; help finding accommodation etc. REMEMBER, the Education Agent works for you! They receive between 10% – 40% in commission of the fees you pay to the Education provider so choose one that provides extra services.

Here are my 7 suggestions on how to find the best Education Agent:

• Ask for Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from others who have studied in Australia.
• Assess Services: Compare the services offered by various Education Agents to ensure they meet your needs.
• Compare Reviews: Compare reviews of different Education Agents to evaluate their reputation.
• Verify Accreditation: Confirm that your chosen agent is accredited to work in Australia.
• Talk to Agents directly: Have direct talks with various agents to find out how they can help you.
• Check Experience: Verify the agent’s experience in assisting students.
• Attend Educational Events: Participate in educational expos and fairs where you can interact with agents and gather information firsthand.

1. Ask for a recommendation

Read my list of recommended Education Agents

One of the best ways to find a highly recommended Education Agent is to read the list I complied of education agents I recommend in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. I have written a brief description about each agent listing what extra services they offer and the reasons why I recommend each one. It is a great resource and will help make an informed decision.

Ask a friend

Asking a friend who has been through the process is a good way to get a recommendation for a good agent. BUT do more research than that. Trusting our friends is good however they may not be experts on all aspects of choosing a high quality Education Agent.

Ask for recommendations on community boards

Many online groups exist to assist international students in Australia. These groups feature advice and suggestions from individuals who have experienced moving to Australia for studying purposes. They offer helpful information regarding living, studying, contacting education agents, selecting schools, and choosing universities. Facebook serves as the primary platform for these groups. To start exploring, try searching for terms like ‘international students in Sydney’ or ‘Latinos en Brisbane’. These pages can be incredibly beneficial if you have any inquiries regarding life as an international student in Australia.

2. Assess Services

Compare the extra services each Education Agent Provides

What makes a good agent stand out from an average one are the extra services they provide. Every agent will be friendly – that’s part of their job. But what else can they do for you? Every agent will assist you with the visa process, help you choose an education provider, get a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE), obtain medical insurance, and so on. But what more can they offer? Keep in mind, the Education Agent works for you! They earn a commission of 10% – 40% from the fees you pay to the Education provider where you study. Good Education Agents may provide some or all of the following additional services:

• Airport pickup and arrival assistance
• Accommodation support
• Pre-Departure orientation
• Tax File Number (TFN)
• SIM card for your mobile phone
• Personal resume
• Bank account
• Ongoing help
• Social outings

Click here to read a great article I wrote on ‘What extra services a good agent offers’.

I am also working on a list that informs you about the extra services your education agent provides. This list includes only those agents with offices in the city because I believe having an agent based in the city is preferable. They have personal experience to share with you, and you can visit them in person if you need assistance. Check out the agents based in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.

3. Compare Reviews

Compare the Education Agent’s Google and Facebook ratings

I recommend comparing reviews and ratings that other international students have given the Education Agent. It provides an insight into the experiences that they have had when dealing with the agent. I created a list of the Google and Facebook reviews of education agents that have an office in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, Australia. Check it out and see what where your agent ranks.

4. Talk to Agents directly

It’s important to connect personally with your education agent to build trust and understanding. This connection is valuable throughout your application process and while you’re studying in Australia. Talking directly with the agent allows you to ask for recommendations and hear success stories from other students, making the agent’s reputation more reliable. Discussing your individual needs helps the agent understand what you require and tailor their help accordingly. Checking how quickly the agent responds to your questions is crucial; a good agent should reply promptly. Also, when you talk directly with the agent, you can ask about the costs and understand their fees clearly. This transparency helps you make decisions based on your budget and preferences. Lastly, talking to the agent directly helps you understand the different services they offer, including guidance before you arrive and ongoing support during your studies.

Here are some questions you may want to ask the Education Agents:

• Have they personally lived in Australia?
• Have they lived in the city they are recommending?
• Why are they recommending the University, Language School, VET course?
• How many Education providers do they represent?
• What help are they offer you once you are in Australia?
• Do they help you in an emergency?
• Do they have contact information of past students who can provide feedback on their experiences?
• What are their fees and charges?

A good education agent will be able to answer all these questions and also provide most of the following extra services:

5. Verify Accreditation

Confirm your Agent is Accredited to operate in Australia

Checking if an education agent is accredited is really important, and it’s a requirement in Australia that they need to be accredited. This ensures they meet certain standards, so international students can trust their services. Accredited agents also know about the rules for studying in Australia, helping students avoid problems with visas, enrolment, and following the education laws. Being accredited, ensures that the rights and interests of international students are protected during the application and enrolment process.

Check that the agent you are dealing with (and not someone else at the agency) is registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) as it is a requirement that your agent be a registered member of these organisations in order to offer you advice. Most agents are also members of Education Agents’ Association of Australia (EAA) or the International Student Education Agents Association.

6. Check Experience

Verify the agent’s experience in assisting students

When choosing an education agent, it’s beneficial to consider their experience in the Australian education sector. Ideally, you’d want an agent with several years of experience, although everyone has to start somewhere. If your agent is relatively new to the field, it’s important to ensure that other agents at the same Education Agency have at least three years of experience. This way, even if the agent assisting you is less experienced, they can access accurate information with the support of their more experienced colleagues. Experience is very important as it ensures a comprehensive understanding of the Australian education system, accurate guidance on course selection, knowledge of visa processes, established relationships with institutions, insight into scholarship opportunities, awareness of cultural adaptation challenges, a network for accommodation assistance, guidance on work rights, and a proven track record of success in assisting international students.

7. Attend Educational Events

Participating in global educational expos and fairs provides international students with the chance to engage directly with education agents and gather relevant information. While many events are held in Australia, several take place worldwide, enhancing accessibility. These occasions facilitate face-to-face meetings with agents, establishing personal connections and enabling direct communication. With diverse agent options available, students can explore and find an agent that suits their needs. Assessing agent professionalism in person ensures a better understanding of reliability, while workshops and exclusive offers enhance knowledge and potential cost-saving opportunities

Additionally, these gatherings offer networking opportunities with representatives from Australian institutions, providing insights into academic offerings. Check out this very useful page listing Educational Expos by Australian schools in various countries around the world https://exhibitions.aeas.com.au/

Extra services exceptional Education Consultants should provide

Throughout my teaching career, I’ve spoken to countless students who believed they had a good education agent until they compared their agent’s services with others. All education agents are friendly, that’s their job, but a good education agent should offer more than just the minimum service and a smile.

Agents can earn a significant commission, usually ranging from 10% to 40% of the school fees you pay to the education provider (depending on the type of course you study) so you should be receiving a high level of service from your education agent for the money they receive from the school or university.

Besides guiding you through the visa application process, which involves multiple steps, a reputable education agent should offer support throughout your entire educational journey.

Minimum Services Offered

These are the minimum services an Education Agent should provide in Australia:

1. Selecting a country and city to study in
2. Deciding on a course to study: University; V.E.T.; General English; IELTS; Cambridge etc.
3. Choosing a high quality education provider (not the one that provides the highest commission to the agent)
4. Completing the application process to obtain a ‘Confirmation of Enrolment (COE)’ from the education provider
5. Guidance writing a ‘Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)’ statement
6. Organising compulsory Medical Insurance
7. Provide information on any medical tests or vaccinations that you may require

Extra Services Offered

What extra services does a good Education Agent offer?

What distinguishes a good education agent from the average are the additional services they offer. Doing more than the minimum and offering a personalised service is what should be expected. A good education agent should know all about the country you’re planning to study in.

They should know things like the culture; how the education system works; immigration rules; visa application process; which universities, language schools or VET colleges are popular and what kinds of programs they offer; if you can work while studying, and other things you need to follow to study abroad legally.

Besides having an extensive knowledge of the country which they can share with you, good education agents should offer some, or all of the following extra services (see below for details):

• Airport Pickup and Arrival Assistance
• Accommodation Support
• Pre-Departure Orientation
• Tax File Number (TFN)
• SIM card for your mobile phone
• Personal resume
• Bank account
• Ongoing help
• Social Outings

Airport Pickup and Arrival Assistance:

Some agents may provide airport pickup services or help students arrange transportation to their accommodation upon arrival in Australia. This initial assistance can help ease the transition for international students.

Accommodation Support:

Agents can assist students in finding suitable accommodation options in Australia, such as student accommodation, homestays (homestay; homestaynetwork ), share houses (Flatemates.com.au; flatmatefinders), or private rentals. They should help students understand their choices and provide advice on accommodation arrangements.

Pre-Departure Orientation:

It’s important for students to be well-prepared before they leave for Australia. Education agents should offer pre-departure guidance, including information on what to pack, how to manage finances, and how to adapt to the Australian culture and environment.

Here’s a list of items that some students choose to buy in Australia and not bring with them to save space in their bags:

• Pillow
• Power adaptor
• Sheets
• Towel
• Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste etc.)
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Insect repellent

Tax File Number (TFN)

If you want to work in Australia, you must have a TFN. It is the number that your employer uses to pay your tax to the government. A good agent will explain this to you and a good agent will help you apply for one. Here is the link to the Australian Tax Office (ATO) explaining how to get a TFN in Australia.

Writing a resume

A personal, high quality resume is very important. Some agents will provide you with a very poor quality proforma resume that has been copied many times.

Getting a SIM card for your mobile phone

Several agencies provide their international students with SIM cards or eSIM before they arrive in Australia. Once you have left the airport the airport you can activate the SIM card. Others take their students to buy a SIM as part of their orientation training.

Open a bank account

You have the choice to open an Australian bank account before you come to Australia or when you arrive. A good agency will offer you the choice of opening the bank account in your home country. Australia has four major banks Commonwealth, Westpac, National, ANZ. They all offer the same services and one is not better than the other as most stunts use internet banking and never go into a physical bank building.

Emergency Assistance:

In case of emergencies, such as medical issues, visa problems, or other unforeseen challenges, education agents should be a reliable point of contact for students, providing guidance and assistance.

Ongoing Help:

A good education agent doesn’t just disappear after helping you get started. They’re there to provide you with support all the way through your studies. They can help you understand things like part-time jobs, adapting to a new culture, and finding solutions to any issues you might face.

Social Outings

Some agencies organise social events so that international students who have recently arrived in the city can meet other international students, usually from your own culture.

My recommended Australian Education Agents

If you are looking for a good education agent in Australia check out my recommended agents in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Discover the services offered by each education agent in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.

Check out the Education Agent’s Google and Facebook review scores in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Useful government websites for international students

If you want the most up-to-date information, always double-check government websites, as rules and regulations might change. Here are some links to some Government Websites to get the most current information.

• Study in Australia Official Website: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/
• Study Queensland – Resources for International Students: https://www.studyqueensland.qld.gov.au/
• Study NSW – Information for International Students: https://www.study.nsw.gov.au/
• Study Victoria – Resources for International Students: https://www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/

The Best Education Consultants in Brisbane: which agents offer amazing extra services?

I have taught thousands of students in my English language teaching career and I have listened to several student’s discussions about their education agents and the services they did or didn’t provide them. Some students have had very positive experiences whilst others were simply given the basic help and were then wished ‘good luck’ by their agent with no further assistance.

I personally believe good education agents do more than just the minimum. They help students before they arrive in Australia and after they arrive in Australia with extra services like helping open a bank account; obtaining a TFN; getting a SIM card; writing a resume; assistance finding accommodation; arranging airport pickup services and providing opportunities to meet other international students through organise social events.

So to help International Students select an excellent education agent in Brisbane, I have taken the following steps:

• 1. Authored this article listing recommended education agents in Brisbane with fabulous extra services
• 2. Created a list of education agents in Brisbane, comparing their Google and Facebook reviews.
• 3. Developed a chart that outlines the services offered by each education agent in Brisbane.
• 4. Wrote an informative article on ‘7 suggestions on how to find the best Education Agent in Australia‘

My recommended Education Agents in Brisbane

Determining what is a good or bad education agent is subjective, so I have designed a list of criteria that I believe every good education agent should provide. I personally believe that students should choose an education agent that has an office in the city where they are going to study and not only in their home county.

Therefore, to make it onto my list of the best education agents in Brisbane, the agent must fulfill the following criteria:

• Local office: The education agent must have a physical office in the city, ensuring easy access for students.
• Experience: The education agent must have operated in the city for several years, demonstrating a substantial level of experience.
• High Google and Facebook rating: The education agent must maintain a Google rating of over 4.8. This indicates a strong reputation and positive student feedback. Check out the Google and Facebook rating of your Education Agent.
• Extra services: They must offer additional services and not just the minimum services. Check out the extra services offered by your Brisbane based Education Agent.
• Study Options: The agent must provide study options across various educational institutions, including Language schools, Universities, TAFE, and Vocational Educational Training (VET) courses.

So here is my list of the top education agents in Brisbane, Australia:

Go Study Australia

Brazil

Colombia

Chile

China

Japan

Philippines

Taiwan

Go Study has been around for more than 16 years and has provided education and visa services to over 40,000 people. Currently they have 12 offices in Australia, Europe and South America and lay claim to being the largest international agency in Australia.

They certainly do offer some great services. These include assistance opening a Bank account (Commonwealth Bank), obtaining a Tax File Number opening (TFN) and Australian Business Number opening (ABN) if required, special prices and discounts for work certificates: RSA (serving alcohol); White Card (building).

But what stands out most for me is the assistance they provide in preparing students to find employment. They offer Job preparation sessions at their offices which include workshops, seminars and training. They also offer special prices and discounts for work certificates like the RSA (catering) and White Card (building) which is fantastic.

Going even further with the assistance in finding a job, Go Study has an eBooks package which includes information on Working in Australia, including the ‘Ultimate guide to getting a job in Australia’, ’12 Websites to find a job in Australia’ and ‘Ultimate Guide to Regional and Farm Work’. Even more they have a GO STUDY Jobs Club newsletter subscription to receive the latest job offers.

SOL Education and Migration

Brazil

China

Colombia

India

Japan

Korea

Taiwan

Vietnam

Sol Education and Migration’s history began in 2002 in Brisbane and has expanded into other markets. SOL Education is probably the largest education agent in Brisbane with a team dedicated to Brazil, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Latin America, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. SOL offers a lot of extra additional services for their student. Upon arrival students receive a welcome pack that includes all the information necessary for the student to live in Australia. Students also receive assistance with opening a bank account (CBA, ANZ), obtaining a TFN, obtaining a SIM card (Optus, Telstra), RSA & White Card and a mail service for the first few weeks. The don’t provide a service to get a job however they offer advice on how to find one.

They focus a lot on social connections and offer a lot of social events like excursions to Stradbroke Island, Halloween parties, speaking clubs (which up to 120 people attend), special events like national independence days etc. and expos on studying in Australia. SOL has a Google rating of 4.8, while it isn’t perfect, is still respectable considering the large number of students they help each year.

KOKOS Brisbane

Taiwan

China

Korea

Thailand

Mongolia

Kokos Brisbane has a perfect Google rating of 5.0 from students and others. I can understand why they are rated so highly as they were professional, polite and helpful when I spoke with them. They offer a wide range of additional services like good education agents do. Their additional services they offer for free include: assistance with Bank Account (NAB), TFN, ABN, SIM card (Lebara), resume, mail service.  Additional paid services that they offer include an RSA course (approximately $150), airport pickup service (cost depends on where you live), help finding a job (approximately $250), finding accommodation (cost depends on style of accommodation).

Hello Australia Brisbane

Brazil

Colombia

Chile

Hello Australia has been in operation for over 13 years and has a strong focus on people, as you would expect form an agency focused on Brazil and Latin America. They have a lot of varied social events that connect people together to help form friendships whilst in Australia.

The extra services provided to their students include help with obtaining a TFN, writing a personalised Resume and offering a mail service. But what makes Hello Australia stand out though are these three extra services. They have an airline department which takes care of all the details of the ticket to the destination country of your choice, offering great flight options and special promotions for students and companions. They will also introduce you to their employment contacts which will hopefully lead to a job quicker as it is very expensive to live in Australia. We all have bills to pay and we need to work. Additionally, they have partnerships with companies specializing in Homestay and Student Residences so that our students can choose the type of accommodation according to their preference. This is of course a paid service but very helpful.

JRIS Education Brisbane

Taiwan

China

Japan

Mongolia

Established more than 20 years ago, JRIS has assisted tens of thousands of students to study in Australia. They are a Taiwanese focused education agent and make the claim to be the most professional and caring consultants in Taiwan. The students they have helped seem to agree with this claim and have given them a 5 star google rating. When I personally spoke with the staff at JRIS, they were very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable about the education market in Australia.

JRIS has also been rated as the best study abroad centre by many Australian universities even being recognised with the Best Business Award by the Australia-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce. This is a notable achievement as there are a lot of education agents operating in Australia.

Of course, being friendly is important, but it’s the services that JRIS offers that makes it a top education agent in Brisbane. Starting with a one-on-one video consultation from your own home or anywhere they continue to help you through the standard services of school selection, application, admission acceptance and visa just like every other education agent. However, it’s the extra services of helping you open a bank account, get a SIM for your mobile phone and organise a Tax File Number (TFN) so you can work that make it standout. Additionally, for an extra fee they can also arrange an airport pick-up service and make accommodation arrangements.

General English, IELTS, Cambridge, IELTS: Which course should I study? I have been teaching International studnts for more than 20 years and almost ev…

General English, IELTS, Cambridge, IELTS: Which course should I study?

I have been teaching International studnts for more than 20 years and almost every week, a student will ask me for advice on what English course to take next: IELTS, Cambridge, or PTE? When students begin learning English, they often feel uncertain about which course is right for them and usually seek advice from friends or agents.

What to study and for how long are difficult questions to answer because everyone has different goals, motivation, time, and expertise in learning English. To help you have a better understanding of which course may be best for you I have written this article which also includes a suggested study plan. The advice in this article is general in nature and is intended to provide additional information to help you create your own English learning plan.

I’ve included the following information to help you start your English learning journey:

• Brief summary of each course: General English (GE); International English Language Testing System (IELTS); Cambridge English; Pearson Test of English (PTE)
• My Advice on which course to study
• A study plan: what to study

Should I study General English?

If you want to improve your English then study General English, that’s what the courses are designed for. Using high-quality materials like English File, Spek Out, Cutting Edge etc. you will follow a structured path to learn English. These course curricula include grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing and speaking activities. The curriculum starts at beginner and progresses through to Advanced.

Should I study IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS), is designed to  assess your language level in four different areas: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It is accepted by thousands of educational institutions, governments, and organizations across the globe as a measure of your English proficiency and is primarily used for university admissions, visa applications, and immigration requirements. If you need an IELTS score for any of those reasons then you should study this exam preparation course.

REMEMBER: the IELTS preparation course is NOT designed to teach you English, although you will probably learn some, it is designed to teach you the techniques on how to achieve the highest score possible in the test. You should already have the appropriate level of English before you enter an IELTS course. See below for more detail.

In many cases the IELTS score is only accepted by governments and universities if it was completed less than 2 years before the application date. Check with your university or government agency for specific information.

Should I study PTE?

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is an English language proficiency test designed to assess and validate a non-native English speaker’s ability to understand, communicate, and use the English language in academic and professional settings. The test is recognized and is widely accepted by Australian universities as proof of English proficiency. Check with the University to confirm whether they accept the PTE score.

Should I study a Cambridge course?

Cambridge English is a department of Cambridge University in England. Their courses are developed to offer a complete English language education from ranging from A2 Key (Beginner) through to C2 Proficiency (Advanced)), focusing on: reading and ese of English, writing, listening, and speaking.

Over 25,000 organizations in 130 countries around the world use the Cambridge exams and tests as evidence of English language proficiency. Every year, more than 5.5 million people take Cambridge English qualifications and tests.

Many language schools offer Cambridge courses and exams as an option but many only offer it from B2 level and up. The Cambridge courses are usually more expensive than general English courses so find out the costs before starting.

My advice on selecting a study course

1. Always begin your studies in General English

General English courses are designed to teach you English by providing a comprehensive and structured approach to language learning. These courses, designed for learners at various levels, offer a well-rounded curriculum that covers essential aspects such as grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, and speaking. The structured nature of the courses ensure that learners follow a logical progression, building a strong foundation and gradually gaining proficiency in English. It’s a practical and effective way to improve language skills, preparing students for effective communication in various real-life situations.

2. Do NOT study IELTS if you don’t need an IELTS score

As I mentioned earlier, IELTS and PTE are an exam preparation courses and are designed to prepare you to take their exams. These courses assume that you already have a proficient level of English before you enter the course. Study General English if you want to learn English.

3. DO NOT study IELTS until you have successfully completed General English

A big error that I see repeatedly is when pre-intermediate level students choose to study IELTS – it is a waste of time and money. DO NOT study IELTS until you have successfully completed the General English level course that you need for your IELTS score. For example:

Intermediate (B1)– approximate IELTS score of 5.0 -5.5

(5.5 is suitable level for some entry level TAFE and VET courses)

Upper Intermediate (B2) – approximate IELTS score of 6.0 – 6.5 (6.5 Suitable for some entry level University courses)

Advanced (C1-C2) – approximate IELTS score of 6.5 – 7.5

(7.0 is suitable for some higher level University courses)

4. Be patient – don’t be in a hurry!

People learn English at different speeds. It’s OK to learn slower than other people, it’s NOT a race. There are several factors that determine how fast someone learns a new language including, language aptitude, age, previous languages etc. It takes the average person up to 600 hours of teacher guided learning to complete Upper Intermediate (B2 level).

People learn English at different speeds. It’s OK to learn slower than other people, it’s NOT a race. There are several factors that determine how fast someone learns a new language including, language aptitude, age, previous languages etc. It takes the average person up to 600 hours of teacher guided learning to complete Upper Intermediate (B2 level).

A good study plan to achieve your English study goals

Each student has a different study goal and time frame to achieve it so there isn’t a perfect plan for everyone. The following plans are guides to help you form your own study plan and achieve your own personal learning goals.

For advice on how to learn English effectively – check out this great article: