English Language Bridging Program (ELBP)
KEY FACTS | DETAILS |
|---|---|
Intakes | Jan, Feb, Mar, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Oct |
Location | Beryl Nashar Building (Callaghan Campus) |
Program Fee | $520 Per Week |
CRICOS Code | 012326A |
Duration | 10 Weeks Per Level |
OVERVIEW
This program is designed to develop the academic English language skills international students need for successful entry into a variety of programs offered at the College of International Education and the University of Newcastle Australia.
From 2026, the ELBP has been delivered by the University of Newcastle College of International Education (CIE) at the Callaghan campus.
Why study the ELBP at the College of International Education?
The ELBP supports international students who have received a conditional offer to study at the University of Newcastle or CIE but need to meet the University’s English language requirements before commencing their next program.
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International students can also apply to study standalone ELBP up to 40 weeks.
The program focuses on developing the English language skills required for university study, including:
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Academic reading and writing
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Listening and note-taking skills
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Academic speaking and presentations
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Critical thinking and participation in tutorials
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Understanding academic culture and expectations
Successful completion of the ELBP allows eligible students to progress directly into their University of Newcastle or CIE program, subject to meeting all other admission requirements.
Who is the ELBP for?
The ELBP is suitable for international students who:
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• Hold a conditional offer to the University of Newcastle or CIE and require English language development
• Do not yet meet the University or CIE’s English language entry requirements
• Want to improve their academic English in a university environment before starting their degree
Study hours
The University of Newcastle English Language Pathways offer 20 hours of class per week.
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Students are expected to attend classes for 4 hours each weekday, maintain attendance above 80% and satisfy our Progress Policy.
English Language Bridging Program levels
The program is delivered through a range of levels each lasting 10 weeks. Placement depends on a student’s English proficiency level which is assessed when you apply to the College or University. Study Tour students can sit the Kaplan Test of English (KTE) online prior to their arrival for the purposes of accurate placement.
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The levels are as follows:
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General English (Beginner)
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General English (Elementary)
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General English (Lower Intermediate)
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English for Academic Purposes 1
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English for Academic Purposes 2
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English for Academic Purposes 3
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English for Academic Purposes 4
English Language Bridging Program Level | English Entry Requirements |
General English (Beginner) | IELTS 3.5 overall or equivalent |
General English (Elementary) | IELTS 4.0 overall or equivalent |
General English (Lower Intermediate) | IELTS 4.5 overall or equivalent |
English for Academic Purposes 1 | IELTS 5.0 overall or equivalent |
English for Academic Purposes 2 | IELTS 5.5 overall or equivalent |
English for Academic Purposes 3 | IELTS 6.0 overall or equivalent |
English for Academic Purposes 4 | IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent |
Program location
Classes are delivered at the Callaghan campus at the University of Newcastle, in the Beryl Nashar Building, providing students with access to university facilities and a genuine university learning environment.
Pathway to the University of Newcastle
The ELBP is an established pathway into undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs at the University of Newcastle or College of International Education. On successful completion, students can progress into their nominated degree without the need to re-sit an external English language test, subject to university conditions.
How to apply
Students can apply for the ELBP as part of their application to the University of Newcastle College of International Education (CIE). Standalone applications for ELBP and applications for direct entry to the University can be submitted via Kaplink.
For more information about entry requirements, intakes, and progression options, please contact the Language Centre or speak with your education agent.