ELB Frequently Asked Questions

How many contact hours do I have each week?

16 class contact, also individual consultations with students are carried out at various stages of the course.

Do I have to do all four units?

Yes. All units must be successfully completed in order to continue studies.

What does 'successful completion of the English Language Bridging course' in the Letter of Offer mean?

50% pass overall and in all four units. If no % mark is given then 50% is the requirement.

My letter of offer says I must get a 60% or 65% pass. Is this in all four units or overall?

For Nursing and Master of Accounting and Finance courses, you are required to pass all four units with a 60% minimum mark. For MBA, you are required to pass all units with a 65% minimum mark. Education courses require a 70% pass in all four units. All other courses require an overall average final mark.

What happens if I change my mind about my mainstream course?

If you have doubts about your choice of mainstream course talk to the Student Advisor as soon as possible. Depending on your previous academic record and your intended choice of course you will need to speak to the Student Services Manager who will contact relevant people to assess entry requirements.

Can I do the course part time?

Permanent residents are able to do two units per semester. Students studying part time complete Academic Writing and English Communication in first semester; second semester units will be Tertiary Study Skills and English for Specific Purposes. International students must study full time - four units per semester to meet student visa requirements.

Do I have to sit either the IELTS or CUTE after I have finished my Bridging course?

Not if you successfully complete the Bridging course at the level stipulated in your letter of offer. If you do not get the necessary marks required to continue to mainstream you will have to sit either the IELTS or CUTE test to provide evidence of the required English proficiency level.

When will we get the exam timetable?

Week 12 of semester.

What happens if I miss a scheduled assessment/exam?

A re-sit will only be organised if documentary evidence can be provided. For example, a medical certificate or letter from Counselling Services.

If I fail one or two units what does this mean?

You have failed the course.

What happens if I fail the Bridging course?

You may have had discussions prior to the examinations regarding your academic progress; often when students are experiencing difficulties staff will talk to those people well before exams are scheduled. If you do not pass the course speak to the Academic Course Coordinator and then to the Student Advisor.

For permanent residents, unfortunately you are only funded for one attempt at completing the Bridging course. If you are experiencing problems which are impacting on your ability to study effectively, see the Student Advisor as soon as possible. Your situation can be assessed and steps can be taken to try and assist you. For example, withdrawing from all or part of the course (prior to Census date) or applying for a Special Late Withdrawal (after census date). Other options may be appropriate, e.g. private tuition or counselling.

Appropriate documentation is required to support a special late withdrawal. If your withdrawal is accepted you will then have an opportunity at a future time to re-sit the Bridging Course.

Does my Certificate of Completion mean I have passed the course?

No, it means you have completed the course, not necessarily passed. Do not take the Certificate to the International Office and ask for your Letter of Offer.

I am returning home immediately after the exams. How and when will I find out my exam results?

DOLIE send information to the International Office advising names of students who have passed. IO then process a new Letter of Offer which is sent to you. Please ensure you have provided correct contact details.

Can I get my exam results early?

No.

Exam results are posted on the Curtin website. Check the site for dates when Results will be available. Results will not be posted, however, if you do not have access to a computer in your home country please advise Student Services staff BEFORE you go home, suitable arrangements can then be made to advise you of your results.

What do I do after I have received my exam results?

Your results and relevant information will be forwarded from DOLIE to the International Office at Curtin. The International Office will process documentation and forward it to you advising of steps you need to take to continue your studies; payment of fees for next course, orientation dates and venues etc. Good luck! Please ensure your contact details are up to date.

What percentage of students pass the Bridging Course?

Approximately 90% - 95%.

Back to top