Cambridge CAE - C1 Advanced (CRICOS course code 0100814) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Universal English Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This ELICOS course is designed for international students aiming to achieve C1-level English proficiency, widely recognised for academic and professional purposes. Delivered in Melbourne, Victoria, the course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards. Universal English Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03750D) is a private provider with two campuses in Melbourne's CBD. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which safeguards tuition fees and student welfare. Whether you're preparing for university entry or career advancement, this course provides structured English language training in a vibrant multicultural environment.
Cambridge CAE - C1 Advanced (CRICOS 0100814) is a non-award English language course (ELICOS) at the C1 Advanced level, corresponding to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This course is intended for students who already have a solid command of English and wish to refine their skills for study, work, or migration purposes. The course does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but prepares students for the Cambridge C1 Advanced exam, which is widely accepted by universities and employers globally. Universal English Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (03750D), delivers this course at its Melbourne campuses. The course is single-qualification (no dual or foundation component), with no mandatory work placement.
As an ELICOS course in the field of Language and Literature (091501), Cambridge CAE - C1 Advanced develops advanced reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Students engage with complex texts, produce well-structured essays, and participate in discussions on abstract topics. The curriculum focuses on real-world language use, including academic contexts, professional communication, and social interaction. Graduates typically achieve the linguistic competence needed to study at Australian universities without further English support. While HeadStart Academy does not provide detailed syllabi, the course aligns with Cambridge Assessment English standards for C1 Advanced. Students can expect to build vocabulary, grammar accuracy, and fluency through interactive classes, group projects, and exam practice.
The course duration is 12 weeks (12 weeks on the CRICOS register). Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification with no dual award. Classes are likely full-time, as is standard for ELICOS courses on a student visa. The mode of study is face-to-face at the provider's Melbourne campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment under their student visa conditions. This 12-week intensive programme is designed for rapid progression towards C1 proficiency.
The indicative tuition fee for Cambridge CAE - C1 Advanced is A$4,800, with non-tuition fees of A$400, totalling an estimated A$5,200. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. The provider may adjust fees at any time, so always confirm with Universal English Pty Ltd directly. Additional costs not included in the estimated total: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 as of 2025, but subject to change). For a realistic budget, international students in Melbourne should allow approximately A$30,000–A$35,000 per year for living costs, per Department of Home Affairs guidelines. Visit the provider's website at http://www.universalenglish.edu.au for the most current fees and any scholarships.
English language requirements for Cambridge CAE - C1 Advanced vary by provider but typically expect IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the student's prior level. Since this is an advanced course, applicants are generally expected to have at least an upper-intermediate level (B2) of English. Prior qualifications: While no formal academic qualification is required, students should have completed Year 10 or equivalent. Foundation or pathway options are not offered with this course; however, Universal English Pty Ltd may provide other English programs for lower levels. Always check the provider's specific entry requirements and submit evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE). For personalised advice, contact the provider or a registered education agent.
There is no work component in this course. Cambridge CAE - C1 Advanced does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. International students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This course's structure focuses solely on English language training, allowing students to concentrate on their studies.
This course is delivered at two locations in Melbourne's central business district: Level 3 131 Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000, and UE Campus, Level 2 131 Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Victoria's capital, home to over 500 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses across all study levels. The city is a top destination for international students, with a vibrant multicultural community and excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) connecting the CBD to suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney; average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$450–A$600, with groceries and transport adding A$200–A$300 per week. Both campuses are within walking distance of Southern Cross Station and Flinders Street Station, making them easily accessible.
To study Cambridge CAE - C1 Advanced at Universal English Pty Ltd, international students generally require a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa; this covers medical and hospital costs. Financial capacity requirements: You must show sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. For a 12-week course, the total cost of living is at least A$7,000 (based on Department of Home Affairs guidelines). HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For visa application assistance, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's course search to find ELICOS courses in Melbourne. Ensure the provider (Universal English Pty Ltd, CRICOS 03750D) and course (CRICOS 0100814) are registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check the entry requirements (English proficiency, prior qualifications), prepare required documents, and submit an application to Universal English Pty Ltd. Be mindful of application deadlines and any entry assessments. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For detailed guidance, see our student visa page.
Start your application for Cambridge CAE C1 Advanced at Universal English today. Check the course details and apply directly via the provider's website.
Cambridge CAE - C1 Advanced is a CRICOS-registered programme at Universal English Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.