FAQs
Trinity College Academic English Program (TCAEP) - Frequently Asked Questions
What will I learn in the TCAEP?
The TCAEP has been developed following the model of English language test preparatory programs, addressing the four core academic areas of listening, reading, writing, and speaking. In addition, students will be introduced to the concept of academic skills that are critical to university success.
I heard I have to complete a diagnostic test at the beginning of the TCAEP. What is the reason for that?
This test will give our teachers an idea of the overall English language ability of a cohort, and will allow for customisation of the program to address areas in need of improvement.
Am I required to sit another IELTS or TEOFL test at the end of the TCAEP in order to be accepted into Trinity College Foundation Studies?
No, students meeting the required score for TCFS will not be required to sit any external tests.
What scores do I need to enter TCFS?
To progress to the next level, or to gain entry to TCFS, students need to achieve a 60% mark in their test. The test will account for 60% of their overall mark. The other 40% will be made up of attendance and overall performance in class.
What does the test to meet the TCFS requirement look like?
Tests will occur every five weeks. Students will be tested in all four areas (listening, reading, writing, and speaking). The test will take 90-100 minutes total.
Is there an attendance hurdle for TCAEP?
Yes, students are required to attend all classes of the TCAEP, and their attendance must not fall below 80% in order to successfully progress to the next level or TCFS.
What if I don't pass one of my tests? Can I repeat the program?
Students may repeat the TCAEP once. This will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. However, students need to be aware that repeating may have implications with their student visa.
What facilities and services will I have access to?
TCAEP students will have access to the same facilities and services as TCFS students.
What kind of support does Trinity provide to help students that struggle with the program?
Students' progress will be monitored on a weekly basis and remedial support will be provided accordingly. Students can take part in TCAEP's Learning Centre which provides off- and online study resources. Students can also attend Learning Centre sessions for self-study which will be supervised by a teacher who can support students should they have any questions.
What is the minimum IELTS or TOEFL entry requirement to enrol for the TCAEP?
Students need to achieve the minimum entry requirement for the TCAEP of their choice. Detailed entry requirements can be found here.
What are the dates and fees of the TCAEP?
Dates and fees are detailed here.
Can I use my TCAEP score to apply for other programs or institutions in Australia?
TCAEP can only be undertaken if you have applied to a Trinity College Foundation Studies intake. TCAEP has been approved by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and the program is recognised in Australia. Education providers in Australia all have their own entry requirements, so you will need to contact the institution of your choice to enquire whether they will accept your TCAEP score for entry.
Can I still study at Hawthorn English to apply for entry to TCFS?
Yes, successfully completing programs at Hawthorn English will still be accepted for entry into TCFS. Please note that students enrolling in a program at Hawthorn English will be required to sit an approved English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL, before being granted entry to TCFS programs.
Can I enrol in TCAEP for any of the Fast Track Programs?
Students applying for one of our Fast Track Programs may enrol in the 10- or 20- week TCAEP program for Main intake. Please note that students will be required to sit an external English test to progress to Fast Track and that there may be implications with their student visa.
How many students will be in one class?
The maximum class size is 18 students per class.
What will the time schedule for my program look like?
Students must attend 20 hours of class per week, which is four hours of class per day, Monday to Friday. Classes may fall in either one of the following timetables:
- 9am - 11am, and 1pm - 3pm
- 11am - 1pm, and 3pm - 5pm
Do I pay a lumpsum for TCAEP or do I pay per level every 10 weeks?
Students accepting a place for the TCAEP will be required to pay a lumpsum for their TCAEP program, together with their enrolment fee, first semester TCFS fee and Overseas Student Health Cover.
Will I get a refund of TCFS first semester fees if I'm unable to progress to TCFS?
Yes, students will be able to claim a refund for TCFS first semester fees, should they not complete the TCAEP successfully.