English for General Purposes (Beginner to Advanced) — CRICOS 0100941

What you'll study

This course falls under Field of Education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). Students at this non-award level focus on practical English skills across reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The curriculum typically covers grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational fluency, with classes tailored to different proficiency levels. Graduates should be able to communicate effectively in a range of everyday and academic contexts. While specific syllabi vary by provider, ELICOS courses generally aim to prepare students for further study, employment, or social integration in English-speaking environments. The flexible structure allows learners to progress from beginner to advanced levels, with regular assessments to monitor improvement. This course does not lead to a formal qualification but provides a certificate of completion, often accepted by other institutions for meeting English language entry requirements.

Duration and study mode

The course duration as recorded on the CRICOS register is 53 weeks (1 year). Instruction is delivered full-time in English, and the course is a single qualification without dual awards. There is no foundation studies component. Classes are likely held on campus at Melbourne Polytechnic's delivery locations. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa conditions. The 53-week duration includes scheduled breaks, allowing students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays (subject to visa conditions). This structure supports a balanced study-life experience while meeting the requirements of the Subclass 500 visa.

Fees (indicative)

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$16,000 per year, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$16,000. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change – always confirm current charges directly with Melbourne Polytechnic. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For example, OSHC for a single student can cost around A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$21,041 per year (as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines). For the latest fee information, visit the official provider website: http://www.melbournepolytechnic.edu.au/.

Entry requirements

English language requirements for this course vary by provider but typically require an IELTS score of 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the level of study. Since this is an ELICOS course, students may be placed into a class based on their current English proficiency rather than requiring a minimum score. Prior academic qualifications: generally, students should have completed Year 12 or equivalent in their home country. Some providers may accept students with lower qualifications if they demonstrate sufficient motivation. Foundation or pathway options: Melbourne Polytechnic may offer bridging programs if you do not meet entry requirements – contact the institution for personalised advice. Note that meeting the entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; all applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and other visa conditions.

Work component

This course has no mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled study breaks. However, the course itself does not include a work placement or internship. If you are looking for practical experience alongside your studies, you may consider part-time employment in sectors like hospitality or retail, but this is not part of the curriculum. Always ensure that any work undertaken does not interfere with your academic progress and that you comply with visa work conditions.

Delivery locations

This course is delivered at two campuses in Victoria: 144 High St, Prahran (Prahran, VIC) and Preston Campus - 77-91 St Georges Rd, Preston (Preston, VIC). Both are in Melbourne's metropolitan area. Prahran is a vibrant inner-city suburb known for its dining and shopping, with excellent tram and train connections. Preston is a northern suburb with a diverse community and good bus and train links. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 150 CRICOS-registered providers. Typical costs: weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$200–A$400 (depending on area), groceries around A$80–A$150, and a public transport myki pass about A$50 per week. The city offers a high quality of life, multicultural atmosphere, and world-class education infrastructure.

Student visa

International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: evidence of enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year) and OSHC, and English proficiency (if not already met). Under the Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa holders must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend at least 80% of classes, and meet academic progress requirements. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you complete at least two years of study. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.

How to apply

Ready to start your journey with English for General Purposes (Beginner to Advanced) at Melbourne Polytechnic? Follow these three steps:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (ELICOS), field, and location (Melbourne). Verify that the provider and course are CRICOS-registered (Melbourne Polytechnic is CRICOS 00724G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Contact Melbourne Polytechnic for application forms, entry requirements, English language test (if needed), and deadlines. Submit all required documents, including academic transcripts and proof of English proficiency. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online, including evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs.

Is Melbourne right for you?

Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, making it a top choice for international students. With over 200,000 international students from diverse backgrounds, you'll find a welcoming community. The city offers excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) connecting all suburbs, including the campus locations at Prahran and Preston. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney – budget around A$1,000–A$1,500 per month for rent, utilities, and food. Victoria has a strong economy and many part-time job opportunities for students. Additionally, Melbourne hosts numerous cultural festivals, sports events, and natural attractions like the Great Ocean Road. If you enjoy a vibrant, multicultural city with high-quality education, Melbourne could be the perfect place for your ELICOS studies. Remember to consider your personal preferences for climate, lifestyle, and budget.

Ready to enrol? Check CRICOS registration and apply directly to Melbourne Polytechnic today.

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