General English (Elementary to Upper Intermediate) (CRICOS course code 0101496) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Mandarin Institute of Victoria Pty Ltd over 50 weeks (~12 months). This course is designed for international students who want to improve their English proficiency from elementary to upper intermediate level, focusing on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for quality education and student welfare. Mandarin Institute of Victoria is a private ELICOS provider based in Melbourne, with a strong reputation for delivering English language programs. The course falls under the field of Education: Language and Literature (091501 ELICOS), providing a pathway for further study or personal development. Whether you plan to pursue higher education in Australia or enhance your career prospects, this course offers a solid foundation in English communication.
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General English (Elementary to Upper Intermediate) (CRICOS course code 0101496) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Mandarin Institute of Victoria Pty Ltd over 50 weeks (~12 months). The provider is registered under CRICOS code 03729A and is a private institution located in Melbourne, Victoria. The course is classified under the field of education 091501 – ELICOS, which focuses on English language instruction for overseas students. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) qualification but is a foundation course that prepares students for further study or employment in an English-speaking environment. The CRICOS registration ensures that the course meets Australian government standards for international student education, including the ESOS Act protections. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, students can trust that this course is part of a regulated system designed to safeguard their educational investment.
This ELICOS course covers English language skills from elementary to upper intermediate levels. Students will develop their abilities in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with a focus on real-world communication. The curriculum typically includes grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversation practice, as well as academic English skills such as essay writing and presentation. While the exact syllabus is determined by Mandarin Institute of Victoria, ELICOS courses aim to build confidence and fluency in English. Graduates of this level can typically handle everyday situations, understand main ideas in conversations, and express themselves coherently. The field of Language and Literature (0915) encompasses a broad range of language studies, and this course specifically targets practical English proficiency.
The course is offered over 50 weeks (~12 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual qualification). Students are expected to attend full-time, typically with 20–25 hours of classroom-based learning per week. Full-time study is a requirement for the Student visa (Subclass 500), ensuring students maintain satisfactory course progress. Weekends and public holidays are usually free, and scheduled breaks align with the academic calendar. This duration allows students to progress from beginner to intermediate levels through structured modules. As a non-VET course, there is no VET national code associated with it.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$13,000 for the full 50 weeks. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should confirm directly with the provider any additional charges for materials, administration, or activities. The estimated total cost is A$13,000. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Compared to other ELICOS courses in Melbourne, this fee is competitive. Always check the Mandarin Institute of Victoria website for the most current fees, as institutions update their prices. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy provides these figures from the CRICOS register for reference purposes only.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. Since this course starts at an elementary level, students may need a lower score or may be tested upon arrival. Prior qualifications expected for this level include completion of secondary schooling equivalent to Year 10 or 11 in Australia. Some providers offer placement tests to determine the starting level within the course. Foundation or pathway options may be available if your English is below entry requirements — check with Mandarin Institute of Victoria. International students must also meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements and have sufficient financial capacity. For specific entry criteria, contact the institution directly.
No work component — this course does not include a mandatory work component or internship. Students may still seek part-time work during their studies, subject to visa conditions. The Student visa (Subclass 500) allows work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. However, work is not part of the course curriculum. If you're seeking an English course with work placement, consider other CRICOS-registered programs that offer integrated work components.
This course is delivered in Melbourne, Victoria — specifically at the Mandarin Institute of Victoria campus in the Melbourne CBD. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a leading destination for international students, with over 150,000 international students and more than 100 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) making campus access convenient. Living costs in Melbourne range from A$400–600 per week for rent, plus groceries and transport. Studying in Melbourne provides a vibrant cultural experience with world-class dining, arts, and sporting events. For more on studying in Victoria, see our state guide.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Mandarin Institute of Victoria, adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, and evidence of financial capacity (to cover tuition, living costs, and travel). Current living cost benchmark for a single student is A$21,041 per year (excluding tuition). Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. After course completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you progress to a higher-level course. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for up-to-date visa information.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong economy and multicultural community. For ELICOS students, the city offers numerous English practice opportunities through volunteer work, language exchange groups, and part-time jobs. The city has a large Asian community, making it easier for Mandarin speakers from China and other Asian countries. However, living costs are higher than in regional areas. Melbourne has a cooler climate compared to Sydney or Brisbane. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences. HeadStart Academy recommends researching accommodation options (homestay, rental, or student housing) before arriving. With over 100 CRICOS-registered providers in Melbourne, you have many choices for English study.
Follow these three steps to enrol in General English (Elementary to Upper Intermediate) at Mandarin Institute of Victoria Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to verify that Mandarin Institute of Victoria is registered (CRICOS 03729A). Compare this course with other ELICOS options in Melbourne.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Mandarin Institute of Victoria to submit your application. You'll need to meet their entry requirements, which may include an English language test or placement test. Provide academic records and passport copy. The institution will guide you through the application process.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. You'll also need to purchase OSHC and show evidence of funds. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Ready to enhance your English skills in Melbourne? Contact Mandarin Institute of Victoria directly to start your application.
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General English (Elementary to Upper Intermediate) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Mandarin Institute of Victoria 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.