Arriving at the airport in a foreign country can be overwhelming. To better prepare yourself, make sure that you have read the information below about your arrival and how to get to your accommodation. If you get lost or confused upon arrival, don’t be afraid to ask the airport staff for help, as they will be happy to give assistance. 

(i) If you have booked a transfer with us, in case of a service emergency, use the following details to contact us: If you have any flight changes, miss a connecting flight or need help meeting the transfer service, you should call the emergency number. Please be prepared to tell them your name, school name (English Path) and location. Students should only accept a transfer from a greeter with the official EP Brisbane signage. 

Transfer service emergency number: +61 461 331 754 *Temp number (Mark Bailey) 

(ii) Be aware of the general living costs (sample prices for items in this city) 

Bottle of water: $3 

Coffee: $2-6 

Can of coke: $3 

Meal out for two: $60 

Takeaway pizza: $15 

Sandwich: $10 

Local bus ticket: $3.55 

Local subway ticket: $3.55 

Bike/Scooter rental: $10 

Cinema ticket: $15 

(iii) Understand the local customs 

Women in Australia are equal to men and should always be treated fairly.  

Australian people talk to strangers in public areas. This is a great way to practice English, but caution should be taken. You should not give out your address and telephone number or accept inappropriate invitations.  

"Please" and "thank you" are very important words! Always use them if you ask someone to do something for you or if they help you or give you information.  

Australia is a culturally diverse nation where people of all ethnic backgrounds are treated equally.  

Tipping in restaurants or for other services is rarely required in Australia but can be offered in high end restaurants or for outstanding service anywhere. If you choose to tip, it should be no more than $5. Fast food is not tipped, but you could offer a tip for exceptional service if food is delivered promptly or perhaps in bad weather. 

(iv) Health and safety come first  

Medical insurance: All students must have travel or medical insurance (Student Visa Holders) for the duration of their stay in Australia. You can either book medical insurance offered by English Path, or you can choose your own. 

If you get sick: If you get sick while in Australia, you should visit a doctor. You can ask the Student Services team or your host family where the nearest doctor is. If you have a minor illness, you can ask staff at a local pharmacist for advice. Remember to bring any relevant insurance or medical documentation with you. 

Protecting your belongings: We strongly recommend you take out insurance for your personal belongings, especially cameras, music players, mobile phones and laptops. Personal items cannot be covered by English Path homestay or residence insurance.  

Prescription medication: Remember to bring enough of your prescribed medication with you, as Australian pharmacists will not dispense a foreign prescription. International customs agents may ask you questions about your medication upon your departure or arrival, so be sure to pack it carefully. Bring any important medical records (blood type, prescriptions, x-rays) that might be useful for medical care abroad, as well as contact information for your health care providers at home. 

Staying safe at school: If you or another student has an accident or needs urgent medical attention, please come to reception where the First Aider is located. 

Fire safety: If you discover a fire, press the fire alarm button on the nearest alarm. Leave the building immediately via the fire exit. Make sure you tell a member of EP staff exactly what happened so they can call 000. If you hear the fire alarm, leave the building immediately. Do not run. Use the lift or stop to collect your belongings. EP staff will guide you to the fire exit. Go to the assembly point. Follow any instructions given by a member of EP staff and do not go back into the building until you are told to do so by EP staff. 

Personal safety and looking after valuables: If you discover a fire, press the fire alarm button on the nearest alarm. Leave the building immediately via the fire exit. Make sure you tell a member of EP staff exactly what happened so they can call 000. If you hear the fire alarm, leave the building immediately. Do not run, use the lift or stop to collect your belongings. EP staff will guide you to the fire exit. Go to the assembly point. Follow any instructions given by a member of EP staff and do not go back into the building until you are told to do so by EP staff. 

(v) Medical costs 

Medical costs are at the discretion of your local doctor or hospital. Minimum medical costs are as follows: 

Consultation with a doctor: $75-100 

Prescriptions at a chemist: $5-30 per item 

Dental treatment: $150 

Eye test or new glasses: $100 

(vi) Laws 

No one under the age of 18 in Queensland may buy or consume tobacco or alcohol, including beer and wine. It is against the law to buy tobacco or alcohol for someone you know who is under the age of 18. 

Driving under the influence of alcohol is a very serious crime and police make regular random checks. 

You will need international ID to enter bars, clubs or pubs (e.g. Passport, ID card, driver’s license). 

Buying, selling and using drugs is illegal. 

(vii) Student code of conduct 

You must attend all classes. If you do not attend your classes, your representative will be informed. If you do not improve your attendance, you may be sent home. 85% attendance is needed to be able to receive a certificate of completion. 

Be on time for all your lessons. 

Always tell English Path if you are going to be absent from school for any reason and tell your host family if you are going away overnight. 

If you commit a criminal offence or have to be severely disciplined, you will be sent home. We will also inform the immigration authorities. 

Be respectful, polite and open to different cultures. 

You can access further pre-arrival information in our student handbooks: https://www.englishpath.com/partner-zone/ep-brisbane-student-handbook/

Here are some important things you need to know to make your arrival as smooth as possible. Use our checklist to ensure you do not forget anything and are prepared for the exciting times ahead.  

(i) Checklist 

Here are a few important items that you should bring with you:  

• Passport  
• Acceptance letter  
• Accommodation letter  
• Proof of health/medical insurance  
• A bit of cash and credit/debit cards/Apple or Google Pay  
• Weather-appropriate clothing (depending on the season you come to Brisbane) 
• Adaptor for electrical appliances (Australia – 240V Three pin) 
• Prescription medication and medical records 
• Emergency information 

(ii) Pocket money 

Recommend weekly budget: $250 (excluding accommodation). This should cover expenses, laundry, local travel and activities. You will need additional money if you want to take weekend trips. Bring $100 with you in cash and a debit or credit card. You will need to check with your financial institution to make sure you will be able to withdraw money from an Australian ATM. Do not bring foreign currency. It is not wise to carry around large amounts of cash. 

(iii) Clothing 

Most students dress casually for classes, but you should bring nice clothes for going out and sportswear for sports and outdoor activities. The climate is changeable and may be different from your own. The typical temperature is 20-29°C in the summer and 10–22°C in the winter. Bring waterproof clothing as Brisbane experiences Tropical Spring and Summer rain and occasional colder Winter rain.  

(iv) Electrical current  

The standard voltage in Australia is 3 pins - 240 volts; remember to bring an adaptor with you or buy one when you arrive. 

(iv) Electrical current 

Standard voltage in Australia is 3 pin - 240 volts; remember to bring an adaptor with you or buy one when you arrive. 

All students on a student visa must have private health insurance while studying in Australia. This can be arranged by English Path or students can arrange this by themselves or through their agent.

Yes, international students on a Student Visa in Australia can work while studying. They are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (every two weeks) during their course. Australia also offers competitive wages, making it a popular destination for students.

However, students on a Tourist Visa are not permitted to work in Australia under any circumstances.

Australia offers several visa types that allow for study:

Visitor Visas (subclass 600, 601, 651): These are for short-term stays, and allow for a maximum of three months (12 weeks) of study.

Working Holiday Visa and Work and Holiday Visas (subclass 417 & 462): These visas are for those aged 18-30 (or 35 for some countries) who wish to have a holiday and can undertake short-term study for up to four months (17 weeks).

Student Visas (subclass 500): This is the primary visa for international students, allowing you to study a full course in Australia for up to five years. The maximum length of study for study at English Path is 62 weeks.

To be eligible for a Visitor visa (subclass 600), you must meet health and character requirements and prove you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay. This visa is for short-term, non-extendable study. You cannot apply for this visa while you are already in Australia.

Holders of a Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) or a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) can undertake short-term study for a maximum of four months (17 weeks). The main purpose of these visas is to holiday, with work and study being secondary. You can also work to help fund your holiday.

How do I get an Australian Student Visa (subclass 500)?

First, you must be accepted into a course at an Australian education provider. Once you receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), you can then apply for the student visa. You must meet health and character requirements, prove you have sufficient funds, and have adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your stay.

How much does a Student Visa cost and how long does it take to process?

As of July 2025, the base application fee for a Student visa is AUD$2,000. The processing time varies (average 4-6 weeks) and can be checked on the Department of Home Affairs website To speed up the process, ensure your application is complete and all required documents are accurate.

Can I work on a Student Visa in Australia?

Yes, Student visa holders can work up to a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. However, students undertaking a master's degree by research or a doctoral degree have no work hour limits. You can work unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.  If you fail to comply with this visa condition, you may have your student visa cancelled.

What are the important conditions of an Australian Student Visa?

Key conditions of your Student visa include:

• Notifying your education provider of your address within seven days of arrival.
• Maintaining satisfactory attendance and course progression.
• Holding adequate health insurance (OSHC) for your entire stay.
• Not overstaying your visa period.
• Adhering to the work hour limits.
• You can check your visa status and full list of conditions any time at the Department of Home Affairs Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO).

Can I apply for an Australian Student Visa from within Australia?

Generally, students already in Australia on a Student visa can apply for another one to continue their studies. However, holders of certain visas, such as a Visitor visa, cannot apply for a Student visa while in Australia. It is crucial to have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of your application.

A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is an official document from an Australian education provider proving you've been accepted into a course. You must have a CoE before you can apply for a Student visa. Failure to provide a valid CoE can make your visa application invalid.

Choices include purpose-built student accommodation (such as Student One and SCAPE), homestay, or renting/sharing off-campus apartments. It’s recommended to secure accommodation early as places can be very limited.

No, not always.  Brisbane is a growing city as it prepares for the 2032 Olympic Games.  Please contact EP Brisbane for accommodation options.

We encourage you to follow the school’s Instagram account before you arrive, especially during your stay. This will give you an idea of what is happening at the school and help you connect with staff and students. We will of any unexpected school closures send notifications of any unexpected school closures: it is important you check our Instagram account, WhatsApp group and email for any messages while you are attending school, especially if there is severe weather in the area (e.g., snowstorm, flood, etc.). If the school cannot open or school opening will be delayed, we will post a message as soon as possible (the night before or in the morning) to advise you of this, along with information on how to get further updates and any alternate scheduling, (if applicable). Follow EP! @englishpathschools. 

On your first day at EP Brisbane: 

• Induction starts at 08:45 am. 
• This includes a placement test, induction presentations about the school and academic programmes and the distribution of class timetables.  
• A tour of the local area.  
• A welcome lunch. 
• Classes begin at 09:00 am on the second day.  
• On their first day, students are expected to bring their passports and proof of medical or travel insurance.

EP Brisbane will be closed in the following days in 2026

01 - 02 Jan, 26 Jan, 03 Apr, 06 Apr, 27 Apr, 04 May, 12 Aug, 05 Oct, 08 Jun, 25 - 31 Dec.

EP Brisbane is the MOST central English language school in Brisbane just 10m from the geographic heart of the city in the middle of Queen Street Mall.

You can find the agencies that partner with EP Brisbane here: https://www.englishpath.com/agency-list/

Yes — free high-speed Wi-Fi is available on campus. Ask Reception for the password.

EP Brisbane offers General English, IELTS Preparation, and other specialist English language programs. Courses run from beginner to advanced levels, aligned with the CEFR scale.

Class duration at the English Path Brisbane campus depends on the course you choose. The Classic Morning course (15 hours per week) runs from 9:00 AM to 12:15 PM with a short break, while the Semi-Intensive Morning course (20 hours per week) runs from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM with scheduled breaks.

Students do not need to buy textbooks, as all course materials are included in the course fees.

Yes, the EP Brisbane campus offers both a student library and independent learning support. Students can access a well-equipped library with books to help improve their English and explore different topics.

In addition, the campus provides a range of learning resources, including games, activities, and learning software, allowing students to practise independently and enhance their language skills outside the classroom.

Students at the EP Brisbane campus are placed in the correct level by taking an English placement test before starting their course, ensuring they join a class suited to their current ability.

If students feel their level is too easy or too challenging, they can request a level change by speaking with their teacher or the Academic Manager, who may arrange a progress or mover’s test.

Yes, students at the EP Brisbane campus take regular tests, including weekly progress tests, to monitor their learning.

Students can track their improvement through their test results and ongoing feedback from their teacher, helping them understand their progress and areas to improve.

Currently yes, you may continue your course at EP Brisbane as long as your visa allows this.  Please speak to the friendly EP Staff.

Yes — you can book academic support sessions with teachers for extra help with English skills, IELTS preparation, or homework.

Students at the English Path Brisbane campus are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which helps cover medical expenses during their stay. For non-emergency health concerns, students should visit a local GP (doctor). It’s also important to follow basic safety guidelines, such as road safety and sun protection.

In case of an emergency, students should call 000, which connects to fire, police, and ambulance services in Australia.

Brisbane is a very walkable and student-friendly city, making it easy to get around. The city also has an extensive public transport network, including buses, trains, and ferries, which are reliable and convenient.

Public transport is affordable, with fares starting from around $0.50, making it one of the cheaper systems to use. Students can travel using a TransLink Go Card for discounted fares, or simply pay with a bank card or mobile app, making commuting around Brisbane simple and accessible.

Students in Brisbane can buy a TransLink Go Card from newsagents and selected convenience stores across the city. While a Go Card is useful for discounted travel, it is not mandatory—students can also pay using an EFTPOS card, credit card, or mobile payment app on public transport.

Public transport in Brisbane is very affordable, with fares starting from around $0.50 for the first trip. If students transfer between multiple services (such as bus, train, or ferry) within the same journey, they are typically only charged once for the initial trip, making it a cost-effective way to travel.

Yes, Brisbane is the perfect city for an e-Scooter.  Download the LIME Scooter or Neuron app from the App Store or Google Play.

Yes!  As long as your English is strong enough.  The most common jobs for international students are hospitality, retail, cleaning and labouring jobs.

Yes, Brisbane is generally more affordable than cities like Sydney and Melbourne, especially when it comes to accommodation, transport, and daily living expenses.

The average cost of living for students in Brisbane can vary depending on lifestyle, but it is typically lower compared to other major Australian cities. For the most accurate and up-to-date estimates, students are advised to check the official Australian immigration website for detailed cost guidelines.

Brisbane offers plenty of budget-friendly and fun activities for students to enjoy in their free time. Thanks to its warm climate, students can relax or swim at Streets Beach, a popular man-made beach in the city. The Brisbane River is also perfect for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, or renting e-scooters and e-bikes along scenic riverside paths.

Students often spend time at South Bank Parklands, the city’s cultural hub, where they can visit museums, enjoy live events, or dine at affordable restaurants. For nightlife, Fortitude Valley is a popular area with a vibrant social scene.

Other fun activities include bowling, escape rooms, kayaking, boat tours, rock climbing, shopping, and golf, offering something for every interest and budget.

EP has an award winning Activities Program with something available for the students everyday.  These could be on campus workshops or masterclasses or something more outgoing like a trip to Eat Street Markets, Outdoor Cinema or a walk through one of Brisbane famous gardens (Roma St, Botanical Gardens, Mt Cootha.

The most famous festival of all is the Brisbane Festival that kicks off with the world famous Riverfire!  Fighter sets, drone shows and fireworks make this a must in every visitors bucket list!

EP Australia is Brisbane most central English Language School.  Having two times been voted Best English Language School in the world our award winning teaching and service speaks for itself!

We aim to make our booking and cancellation terms clear, fair and easy to understand. We recommend that you follow this link to our Terms and Conditions before paying your fees. We want you to book with confidence. If you have any questions about fees or cancellations, just contact us — we’re happy to help