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Studying at Holmesglen


Self Directed Learning
 
Studying in Australia may be different to what you are used to. Students at Holmesglen Institute of TAFE usually attend 3-4 lectures or classes a day. Classes can last from one to four hours. There may be a lot of reading and research to do after classes. You will be expected to do 20-25 hours of homework each week after your classes. Students are encouraged to participate in class. Do not wait for your teacher to come up with all the ideas - put forward your own ideas and ask questions.

The relationship between students and staff is usually informal and relaxed. You may use the teacher's first name.

There are staff available at Holmesglen who can help you with any study problems you may have. Remember to get help as soon as possible. Do not wait too long before asking for help or you will fall behind with your studies. If you have other difficulties, staff in the International Centre or in Student Services are available to help. For students who need help with preparing their assignments, or developing research and study skills, Language Support Staff can assist. Remember you will not be the first student to have such a problem.

Holmesglen also offers a 4-week Study Skills program to students unfamiliar with studying in the Australian context. These programs take place in January and June each year and provide students with academic, language and study skills for study in Australia. The orientation program offered free to each student introduces all students to the resources available at the campus to help students with their studies. Remember that it is important you attend all classes.


The Academic Year at TAFE
 
At Australian TAFEs and Universities, the academic year runs from February to late November. Each academic year has 2 semesters (4 terms). ALL courses commence in February each year. Some courses also start in July and a few also have a third commencement in October. Holmesglen's English language (ELICOS) programs have several intakes throughout the year.


Attendance
 
One of the responsibilities of holding a student visa involves attending at least 80% of your classes. Failure to do so may result in cancellation of your enrolment and visa. If you are having problems attending classes, speak to staff at the International Centre or Student Services.


Learning Resources
 
An indicative list of learning resources can be found under the individual course listing. Students are advised NOT to purchase books until the time of their enrolment.

At the time of their enrolment, students will receive information listing the names of references, required texts and software that will be used in the course. There are bookshops on all campuses where students may purchase required texts. Access to reference books and software is available in the Information Commons.


Resitting Exams
 
The School of Hospitality may allow students who have met the following criteria to resit a test/examination once per subject session at a deferred assessment period. You are eligible for a re-sit if:

· You have received between 40% and 49% inclusive for the test/examination; and
· You have attained a satisfactory level of performance in all other assessment criteria set for this subject; and
· You made a genuine attempt at the test/examination; and
· You have achieved a satisfactory attendance level (at least 80%) of those subjects classes; and
· You have not-already sat a re-sit test for this assessment item.

The maximum mark available for a re-sit (for that assessment criteria) is 50%.

All THEORY re-sits will incur a fee of $10.

All PRACTICAL re-sits will incur a fee of $50.

This payment is to be made to the department administration officer (AO) prior to your resit.

Further information or advice regarding re-sits can be obtained from the Hospitality Program Coordinator.




IELTS
 
For ELICOS students at Holmesglen wishing to sit for the IELTS test, we offer IELTS Test Preparation classes. Holmesglen will also advise students of the examination dates and venues.

Have a look at our IELTS preparation site to introduce you to this English language testing system.