English Language Bridging CRICOS Number 012326A
English Language Bridging Program (ELBP)
The English Language Bridging Program (ELBP) helps international students develop the English language skills they need for successful entry into a range of programs at the University of Newcastle and the University of Newcastle College of International Education (CIE).
The program is designed for students who have received a conditional offer to study at the University or CIE but need to improve their English language proficiency before commencing their next program. In addition, students can apply for the ELBP as a standalone English language program for up to 40 weeks.
From 2026, the ELBP is delivered by the CIE at the University’s Callaghan campus. The program is CRICOS registered under CRICOS code 012326A.
Details
The ELBP provides students with the opportunity to develop their English in a university environment before progressing to their chosen pathway or degree.
The program focuses on the academic and communication skills required for university study, including:
- Academic reading and writing
- Listening and note-taking skills
- Academic speaking and presentations
- Critical thinking and participation in tutorials
- Understanding academic culture and expectations.
Successful completion of the required ELBP level allows eligible students to progress directly into their nominated University of Newcastle or CIE program without needing to re-sit an external English language test, subject to meeting all other admission requirements and University conditions.
The ELBP is delivered across seven levels. Each level is 10 weeks in duration, with placement determined by the student’s current English language proficiency.
| ELBP Level | English Entry Level |
|---|---|
| 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 |
Students must be at least 17 years of age for all English Language Pathways Programs. Equivalent English language test results may also be accepted. Students with no current English proficiency level may be arranged to do Kaplan Test of English (KTE).
Entry levels for standalone and ELBP packaged offers
Program Type | Description | IELTS Entry Score | IELTS Exit Score | ELBP Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Standalone ELBP | ELBP only | 3.5 | 5.5 | 40 weeks |
Standalone ELBP | ELBP only | 4 | 5.5 | 30 weeks |
Standalone ELBP | ELBP only | 4.5 | 6 | 30 weeks |
CIE Packaged ELBP* | Pathway programs | 4.5 | 5.5 | 20 weeks |
CIE Packaged ELBP | Pathway programs | 5 | 5.5 | 10 weeks |
CIE Packaged ELBP | Pathway programs | 5 | 6 | 20 weeks |
CIE Packaged ELBP | Pathway programs | 5.5 | 6 | 10 weeks |
UoN Direct Packaged Offer | Undergraduate (UG) | 5 | 6 | 20 weeks |
UoN Direct Packaged Offer | Undergraduate (UG) | 5.5 | 6 | 10 weeks |
UoN Direct Packaged Offer | Postgraduate (PG) | 5.5 | 6.5 | 20 weeks |
UoN Direct Packaged Offer | Postgraduate (PG) | 6 | 6.5 | 10 weeks |
UoN Direct Packaged Offer | PhD & Health Degrees (except nursing) | 6 | 7 | 20 weeks |
UoN Direct Packaged Offer | PhD & Health Degrees required 7.0 IELTS entry) (except nursing) | 6.5 | 7 | 10 weeks |
* IELTS entry requirements for CIE packaged ELBP vary from 4.5 to 5.5, depending on the pathway program.
Students undertake 20 hours of face-to-face classes per week, generally four hours each weekday.
Students are expected to attend classes for four hours each weekday, maintain attendance above 80% and satisfy our Progress Policy.
2027 Dates
- Intake 1: 25 January - 2 April
- Intake 2: 1 March - 7 May
- Intake 3: 19 April - 25 June
- Intake 4: 24 May - 30 July
- Intake 5: 12 July - 17 September
- Intake 6: 16 August - 22 October
- Intake 7: 5 October - 10 December
Fees
The tuition fee is $530 per week.
Dates are subject to change. All fees are in AUD and inclusive of GST. Please note that additional fees may apply, including but not limited to an enrolment fee, Overseas Student Health Cover, and University Student Services and Amenities Fee.
How to apply
Students can apply for the ELBP either as a standalone, packaged with CIE pathway program or UON direct degrees through KAPLINK, the CIE application portal.
For information about entry requirements, intakes, fees and progression options, contact the Language Centre or speak with an education agent.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.