Academic requirements
Academic entry requirements are listed on individual course pages for our bachelor and master degree programs.
International senior secondary schooling
You can check if an international student’s results from another country are accepted at our secondary school results page. This page has country-specific outlines of international schooling results accepted for entry into undergraduate degrees.
If you are unsure that we will accept the results, submit an application through the agent portal to receive an individualised assessment.
International qualifications
Study completed outside of Australia that is not listed on the course page requires an individual assessment of the qualification by our Admissions team. Submit an application using the agent portal to receive an assessment.
Special or higher entry courses
Some courses such as research degrees or the Bachelor of Science (Nursing), Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education have higher or special entry conditions. Check the specific course page for advice.
English requirements
What is English competency?
All international students are required to meet our published minimum English competency standards for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Not all courses have the same English requirements; those with higher or special English requirements are listed on the English competency page.
What are English proficiency bands?
English Proficiency Bands are used to determine minimum English language requirements that an applicant needs to meet in order to gain admission to a particular course. Each course we teach corresponds with a certain English band and will list the acceptable previous English language study required to satisfy entry. Accepted overseas study that was completed in English (medium of instruction) is also listed.
Complete a course search to match a specific course with the equivalent English proficiency band.
Welcome to ECU
It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to Edith Cowan University.
At ECU we are guided by our values of integrity, respect, rational inquiry, personal excellence and courage. Our focus on teaching and research is inspired by engagement and partnerships with those in the many communities we were established to serve.
Research at ECU extends knowledge and improves the quality of life for Australians and people across the globe. Our research priorities focus on solving real world problems across social, economic, physical and environmental domains.
Established in 1991, ECU has grown rapidly into a quality university with excellent student satisfaction and internationally recognised research.
Students and graduates at ECU are amongst the best in the world, with many fulfilling crucial roles in our society. Their outstanding achievements have been recognised throughout Australia and internationally through awards, grants, scholarships and prizes.
ECU is committed to widening participation and breaking down barriers that restrict entry to education, and we are continuing our work on the enhancement and development of alternative entry pathways to higher education.
We are a university that values diversity and this is exemplified by our multicultural student cohort spanning a wide range of ages. We also support gender equality and ECU is advancing this commitment through our membership of the Athena SWAN Charter in Australia.
I encourage you to find out more about how ECU can help you reach your potential.
Vice-Chancellor Clare Pollock.
About the University
Edith Cowan University (ECU) is where creative thinkers are made.
Located in Western Australia, our dedication to providing industry-relevant teaching and research, supportive student experiences and award-winning facilities enable ECU students to think outside of the box, to use creativity to tackle challenges and seize opportunities.
Since 1991, ECU has reshaped the way higher education is delivered.
Our courses are developed in consultation with industry and our teaching staff bring extensive knowledge and networks to engage and inspire students. Work integrated learning placements, fieldwork, practicums, and networking events are just a few of the opportunities students can expect as part of their ECU journey.
ECU’s higher education delivery approach has been rewarded with five-star ratings for undergraduate teaching quality for the past 18 consecutive years, with top ratings for overall experience, learning resources, skills development, and student support, in the Good Universities Guide, Australia’s largest course comparison website.
World-class research
ECU’s world-class research delivers meaningful real-world impact and solutions to some of our greatest global challenges. ECU works closely with local communities and industry partners to provide our students with the best opportunities to gain the sought-after skills that will enable them to flourish beyond study.
Honour her name
The University is immensely proud to be named in honour of Edith Dircksey Cowan OBE. A university named in her honour is a fitting tribute to an inspirational woman with a pioneering spirit who dedicated her life to the belief that education was the key to growth, change and improvement in society.
While Edith Cowan is most famously known as the first woman to be elected to an Australian parliament, making her one of the first women to be elected to a British parliament in the world, this was only one of many outstanding contributions she made to our state.
The University has embraced Edith’s values of inclusion and equity which are honoured in many ways throughout the fabric of the University. ECU is now ‘home’ to Edith’s former family home, which has been reconstructed, refurbished and sits proudly overlooking the lake on the Joondalup Campus
ECU leads by Edith Cowan’s example, as we pride ourselves in producing capable graduates who can think creatively, ask the right questions, and develop solutions to improve the communities in which they live and work.
Cultural Narrative Framework
ECU’s new Cultural Narrative Framework is a milestone commitment and opportunity to lead with cultural integrity, and foster inclusive, interconnected narratives that reflect the diversity of local, national, and global communities.
The Framework supports the integration of its fundamental principles into all aspects of university life, from curriculum and research to campus design, governance, and partnerships, as well as student life and creative communities.
Cultural Narrative Framework – PDF File, 10.0 MB
At a glance
ECU has more than 30,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students, including international students from 100 countries.
Our eight schools collectively deliver a diverse range of courses across arts and humanities, business and law, education, engineering, medical and health sciences, nursing and midwifery, science and the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts.
Courses are offered on our four campuses – ECU Joondalup and ECU Mount Lawley in metropolitan Perth, ECU South West in Bunbury, 200km from Perth, and ECU Sri Lanka in Colombo. ECU also offers a comprehensive suite of online study options.
ECU incorporates the oldest and most popular School of Education in Western Australia, the largest Nursing program in the State, Kurongkurl Katitjin, our Centre for Australian Indigenous Education and Research, and the world-renowned Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts.
Excitingly, coming to the heart of Perth in 2026 is ECU City. This city-centred campus will be a place where technology, industry and creativity meet to deliver the creative thinkers, adaptive learners and global citizens that our world so desperately needs as the leaders of tomorrow.
Strategic goals
The ECU Strategic Plan, 2022-2026 – Towards the University of the Future, sets five strategic goals, building on our significant achievements of the last five years, and transitioning the University to achieve our vision for 2026.
ECU Strategic Plan 2022-2026 – PDF File, 2.6 MB
Supporting Plans
Several whole-of-University supporting plans (linked below) provide a bridge between the ECU Strategic Plan 2022-2026 and ECU’s annual operating plans. The supporting plans provide a coordinated approach to achieve a broad range of objectives for relevant Strategic Priorities from the Strategic Plan. Progress against each supporting plan will be reviewed annually, with adjustments incorporated where necessary.
ECU is guided by its purpose, vision, commitments and values
Our purpose
ECU’s purpose is to transform lives and enrich society.
Our vision
To lead the sector in educational experience, research with impact, and in positive contributions to industry and communities.
Our commitments
To achieve our vision, ECU will:
- be dedicated to every student’s success
- provide real-world research solutions
- create partnerships for economic and social well-being
- empower our staff to lead in a diverse and values-based organisation
- secure our future through innovation and leadership
ECU’s values
Students, staff and Council members will always conduct their study, work and service to the University in ways that embrace the following values:
- Integrity: we are ethical, honest and fair and demonstrate trust and personal responsibility
- Respect: we treat everyone within our diverse community with dignity and respect
- Rational Inquiry: our decision-making is driven by evidence, sound reasoning, and creative thinking
- Personal Excellence: we demonstrate the highest personal and professional standards
- Courage: we are bold and resolute in our thinking and actions in pursuit of our goals
Our campuses
We have three campuses in Western Australia and one in Sri Lanka, each offering a modern, vibrant location for study and learning.
Our campuses feature up-to-date facilities including wireless internet, 24-hour access to computer labs, libraries with open study spaces outside office hours and a safe environment for you to study in, either by yourself or with other students.
Joondalup Campus
Our Joondalup Campus is the University’s headquarters. The campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including the Health and Wellness Building, a multi-million dollar sport and fitness centre, an award-winning library and student hub, an outdoor cinema for the summer months and on-campus accommodation.
More about Joondalup campus
Mount Lawley Campus
Our Mount Lawley Campus is only minutes from Perth CBD and the Beaufort Street cafe strip. It is equipped with extensive teaching resources, first-rate IT and performing arts facilities, a sport and fitness centre and on-campus accommodation. The campus is also home to the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
More about Mount Lawley campus
ECU South West (Bunbury Campus)
Located two hours’ drive south of Perth, ECU South West (Bunbury campus) is Western Australia’s largest university campus outside the Perth metropolitan area and features modern facilities and a comprehensive range of courses and on-campus accommodation. Here, courses are offered in arts, business, nursing, science, medical and health science, teacher education and social work. ECU also has four learning hubs throughout the region, including Busselton.
More about ECU South West (Bunbury Campus)
Sri Lanka Campus
Our campus location in Colombo, Sri Lanka is conveniently situated between the CBD and the parliament area, close to restaurants, lunch places and shopping. Located in one multi-functional building, the campus features purpose-built biomedical and computer labs, a digital hub, large modern library, modern classrooms, student collaboration spaces and a coffee lounge. It also has underground parking and convenient access to public transport. This is the first full Australian university campus in Sri Lanka.
More about ECU Sri Lanka
Organisational Structure & Governance
Edith Cowan College Pty Ltd (ABN 35 064 377 993), trading as Edith Cowan College, was established as a joint venture agreement between Navitas Ltd and Edith Cowan University in 2016, continuing the strong alliance forged with ECU since 1994.
Edith Cowan College is a registered Institute of Higher Education with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) – Provider ID PRV12166. ECC currently operates across two university campuses with select programs also offered at ECU Sri Lanka. All ECC programs are registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutes and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) under code 01312J.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees can change from unit to unit or from year to year, but you can estimate your fees if you know your course code or title, or your unit code or title.
Follow these steps to use our online calculator.
- Enter your citizenship or visa status
- Choose undergraduate or postgraduate study
Calculate your fees
Incidental fees for certain courses or units
Some courses or units have incidental fees that are separate to your tuition fees. These include things like health screening, police and other clearances, field trip expenses, lab coats and ID badges.
For common types of incidental fees and the courses or units they are applicable to, see What are Incidental Fees?.
Paying your fees
There are many ways to pay your fees, including online by credit card, EFTPOS and BPAY. Your invoice for tuition fees will be available via our Student Information Management Online system.
How to pay your fees
International scholarships
Available Scholarships
- International Undergraduate Scholarship (20% full duration)
- International Masters Scholarship (20% full duration)
- Australian Qualification International Scholarship (20% full duration)
- ECU Excellence Scholarship (20% full duration)
- Bachelor of Science (Nursing) C33 First year Scholarship (20% first year only)
- Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching (O12) International Scholarship (20% full duration)
- Western Australian Premier’s University Scholarship (Total payment of $50,000)
Available Bursaries
- ECU City Campus Welcome Bursary (Total payment of $5,000)
- Maser of Social Work (Qualifying) S10 Practicum Bursary (Total payment of $3,000)
- Travel Bursary for Displaced U.S. Bound Students (Total payment of $2,000)
- ECU Sri Lanka Relocation Bursary (Total payment of $2,000)
- Bhutan Relocation Bursary (Total payment of $2,000)
- Western Australian Premier’s WACE Bursary (Total payment of $20,000)
More information on scholarship and bursary eligibility, terms and conditions can be found at International Scholarships.
ECU International Scholarships
ECU’s international scholarships reward you financially by assisting you in gaining a world-class education. Our scholarships include academic scholarships that provide you with a reduction of up to 20% off your tuition fees, and bursaries that are paid in specific situations.
You can only receive one scholarship at any time, but you can be eligible for both a scholarship and a bursary. Check the terms and conditions to clarify your eligibility.
Applying is easy. Our international academic scholarships are assessed at the same time as we assess your application for a course. If you’ve been successful, our Admissions team will issue a letter relating to your scholarship, as well as a Letter of Offer for your course.
International student scholarships
Scholarships open to international students from selected countries who apply for an ECU course in Semesters 1 or 2 in 2026. Terms and conditions apply.
Scholarships
Every year, a wide range of scholarships are awarded to eligible international students to help with education and other costs.
View available International scholarships.
About Edith Cowan College
Where is Edith Cowan College?
Edith Cowan College (ECC) is located on Edith Cowan University’s Joondalup Campus West and Mount Lawley Campus in Perth, Western Australia. The campuses are serviced by main bus routes and train services. Both of the ECC zones are part of ECU’s wider campus, meaning our students are part of university life from day one. Once your pathway is complete, the move from ECC to ECU could be a simple walk around the corner.
What courses are available at ECC?
Academic English Program leads into Diploma and PQP courses at ECC and various degree programs at ECU.
Diploma courses offer in the areas of Commerce, Computing & IT, Communications, Hotel Management, Engineering, Health Science and Performing Arts (Music).
Foundation Program is equivalent to upper secondary school (Year 12) and university foundation programs. It aims to prepare international students for further study in an ECC Diploma or for entry into the first year of a selected Edith Cowan University bachelor’s degree.
PQP offers in the areas of Business, IT and Communications.
When can I start studying?
All dates for course intakes and study periods are available in the important dates.
What English bridging programs are available at ECC?
The Academic English Program at Edith Cowan College is designed for students who plan to study a degree at Edith Cowan University. Students can improve their academic reading, writing, listening and speaking skills during this Program.
Can I receive credit from prior learning?
You may apply for recognition of prior learning based on equivalent study at another university or educational institution. You can submit applications for RPL when you apply.
If you are applying for an RPL from a unit of study, you must not enrol in that unit unless your application is not approved.
Applications for RPL must be lodged with the appropriate evidence including:
- A completed Recognition of Prior Learning form
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and/or qualifications with approved English language translations (if applicable)
- Copies of unit outlines describing detailed contents of learning outcomes, assessments and other course materials. Such evidence must demonstrate equivalent academic rigour (quality, time frame, breadth and depth of study content)
- Any other evidence demonstrating that your experience, skills, knowledge and qualifications meet the academic rigour required under the respective AQF standards.
- Proof of minimum level of English competency matching relevant course entry guidelines.
What support is provided to students during their studies?
ECC has a range of student support services available. Students have access to study support from Learning Advisors, Academic Program Coordinators and the Academic Services Team, as well as counselling and wellbeing support from ECC’s dedicated Student Counsellor.
How many students are studying at ECC and what are the nationalities of the students?
ECC has a diverse mix of students from around the world and accepts both local students (Australian citizens and Permanent residents) and international students for studies.
How is it like to study at ECC?
You can find out what’s happening at ECC and the student life from our ECC Facebook, ECC Instagram, or Website. Visit our YouTube Channel to see what students and staff have to say about ECC.
I am under 18 years old. What are my responsibilities?
ECC recommends that appropriate arrangements must be made with respect to your accommodation, ensuring sufficient support for your personal welfare during your stay in Australia or until you reach the age of 18 years. ECC offers support and counselling to all students through its Student Counsellor and will liaise with parents regarding the welfare of younger students.
About the classes
What is the average class size?
The average class size is around 30 students. Classes are complemented by small group tutorials or workshops ensuring students receive the best of attention.
What would be my class timetable on a typical day at ECC?
For pathway, Class times can be from 8.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Saturday. Standard classes are 3 hours, but some units may have longer classes or include additional classes for laboratories, workshops or tutorials.
For Academic English Program, please view the sample class timetable.
What happens if a student fails a unit?
The Academic Progression Procedures outline the academic policy.
Applying to ECC
How do I submit an application for studies at ECC?
Applications are done online and the process is different for Australian and International students. ECC and Navitas also offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to reward eligible students.
If you have any questions or need help with your application at any point in the process, get in touch and we’ll be happy to support you.
How to find an agent?
Education agents will be able to assist you with selecting the right course, applying for your studies, providing you with advice on how to apply for your student visa, applying for accommodation and also assisting you with the transition to your studies in Perth. Here’s the find an agent search for ECC College representatives around the world.
Is there an application fee?
No, students who apply to study at ECC are not required to pay an application fee.
What should I include with my application?
Australian student applications require:
- Completed and signed ECC application form
- All academic qualifications (including school reports and official examination certificates)
- English test results or other evidence of English competency (if applicable)
- Any relevant employment documents (if applicable)
- Australian students must also supply proof of citizenship or permanent residency, such as a certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, citizenship certificate or visa
International student applications require:
- Completed and signed ECC application form
- All academic qualifications, translated in English (including school reports and official examination certificates)
- Certified copy of your passport
- English test results or other evidence of English competency (if applicable)
- Any relevant employment documents (if applicable)
Do you offer FEE-HELP for students?
Yes, FEE-HELP is available for Australian citizens who are enrolling in a Diploma course. Eligible students can access the FEE-HELP loan scheme, which can cover all or part of their Diploma tuition fees.
Do you accept students at ECC through alternative entry?
Yes, alternative entry through a portfolio is available to domestic students. It is available to applicants who, for reasons beyond their control, may have experienced disadvantage in accessing and participating in education. You need to demonstrate your achievements, determination, and commitment to succeed in your chosen course of study through the Portfolio and a face-to-face interview.
What are the Academic and English entry requirements for study at ECC?
The Academic and English entry requirements to study at ECC differ for each course but we do outline what admission requirements are needed for your course preference.
How do I apply for a scholarship?
We provide scholarships to eligible students automatically when you apply for a course. You don’t need apply for scholarships separately. You can have a look at what scholarships we offer and you are eligible for.
About Edith Cowan University
How do I apply for my place at Edith Cowan University?
Please see below:
- Packaged international students: Good news! You already have your place secured with ECU. Once you have completed your ECC program, ECU will be in touch with the next steps to transition into the University.
- Non-Packaged domestic students: You can apply to ECU at any time through the ECU application portal. Once you complete your ECC program, ECU will be in touch with the next steps to transition into the University.
Where can I find out more information about ECU?
You can find out all about ECU via the ECU website.
ECC student life
Can I study part-time?
International students are required to study full time to comply with the conditions of their student visa.
Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident may choose to enrol on a part-time basis.
What are my working rights while studying?
As an international student, you will be permitted to work in Australia but there are several conditions which apply. Your student visa allows you to work up to a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight during academic term and unlimited hours during vacation periods. You will not be permitted to commence work until your course start date has commenced.
Where can I search for casual or part-time work?
Most businesses now advertise for positions online. Below are some of the most popular job search websites:
For more detailed information, read our employment page.
How do I file tax if I work casual or part-time?
Anyone working in Australia must have a valid Tax File Number (TFN) which is issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). You can apply at the Post Office or through the ATO website. This website will provide you with information about which documents are required when applying for a TFN.
Once you have been in Australia for more than six months you are considered ‘a resident for tax purposes’. You will be required to pay tax on earnings from work or interest earned from bank accounts.
What is it like to live in Perth?
Perth offers students a great place to study in the sunshine, with the city within close reach. Our vibrant city celebrates a multicultural student community and is known for its relaxed lifestyle and lower cost of living compared to other Australia cities. Perth is home to stunning natural surroundings and endless adventures right on your doorstep!
Find out all Perth can offer from the Destination Perth page.
What are the accommodation options while studying at ECC?
We strongly recommend arranging your accommodation well before you arrive in Perth to start your studies. You have on-campus options, in the form of the ECU Village and off-campus options, that can be found through property listing.
Can ECC students use the ECU library facilities?
Yes, you can use the ECU library facilities. The ECU Library provides you access to study, research resources and physical item borrowing. ECU Library services can also help you to explore the facilities and advise you how to log in with your student account.
How can I find my way around the campuses?
The ECU campus maps are available to help navigate yourself around the Joondalup and Mount Lawley campuses.
ECC student support
What support is provided to students during their studies?
Students have access to Academic and Learning support from Learning Advisors who can help with language skills, study skills, academic writing, basic IT skills, and numeracy skills. Academic Program Coordinators are available for specific course questions and the Student and Academic Services Team are here to help with any question. If you have any questions, just ask.
Does ECC provide wellbeing support for students?
At ECC, we take care of you. If you are ever stressed or need someone to talk to, ECC has a dedicated Student Counsellor to provide free and confidential counselling services.
