English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) (CRICOS course code 0102124) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year 3 months (~67 weeks). This standalone English language program is designed for international students who need to improve their English proficiency for further study, professional purposes, or personal development. Based at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus in Melbourne, the course offers an immersive learning environment with a focus on academic and communicative English. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 00111D), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Course fees are indicative at A$31,200 total with no additional compulsory non-tuition fees, though Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and living costs are extra. For current fee details, always check Swinburne's website. This page provides comprehensive information on curriculum, entry requirements, visa conditions, and application steps to help you make an informed decision.
English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) (CRICOS course code 0102124) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year 3 months (~67 weeks). The course falls under the field of Education (091501 - ELICOS) and is offered in English as the sole language of instruction. It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include a work component. Swinburne University of Technology is a government-owned institution with CRICOS registration 00111D, ensuring all international students are protected under the ESOS Act. ELICOS programs like this one are designed to help non-native speakers achieve the English proficiency needed for academic success in Australia. The Hawthorn campus is well-connected by public transport and located in Melbourne's vibrant eastern suburbs, home to a large international student community.
As an ELICOS program at the Non AQF Award level, this course focuses on developing English language skills across listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students typically engage in communicative activities, grammar and vocabulary building, and academic skills such as essay writing, note-taking, and presentation. The curriculum is aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and often includes preparation for English proficiency tests like IELTS. While specific syllabus details are set by Swinburne, graduates of ELICOS generally achieve a higher level of English fluency, enabling them to pursue further studies at Australian institutions or enhance their professional opportunities. The course is structured to gradually increase complexity, with ongoing assessment to track progress.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 67 weeks (1 year 3 months) of full-time study. Language of instruction is English throughout. This is a single qualification; no combined or dual awards are offered. Study mode is typically on-campus, full-time. International students should maintain satisfactory attendance to comply with student visa conditions. The duration allows for deep immersion in the English language, with ample time to progress through different proficiency levels.
The indicative tuition fee for English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) (0102124) at Swinburne University of Technology is A$31,200 for the full 67-week program. Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, or student services) are listed as A$0, giving an estimated total cost of A$31,200. Please note: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always refer to the provider's website. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change; the CRICOS register data as at April 2026 is a guide only.
English language requirements for ELICOS vary by provider. For Swinburne University of Technology, typical entry expects students to have a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the intended exit level. Some students may enter with lower scores and progress through foundation levels. Prior academic qualifications: Usually, completion of Year 11 or equivalent for intermediate levels; higher levels may require Year 12. No formal foundation studies or pathway programs are linked directly, but ELICOS often serves as a pathway to further study at Swinburne. Always check Swinburne's website for precise requirements and possible English test waivers.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This work right is subject to visa conditions and is separate from the course curriculum. Students can seek part-time employment in Melbourne to support their living costs.
This course is delivered at Swinburne University of Technology's Hawthorn campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122. Hawthorn is a suburb of Melbourne, approximately 6 km from the city centre. The campus is accessible by tram (routes 70, 75), train (Glen Waverley line, Hawthorn station), and bus. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and boasts a multicultural environment. Indicative living costs in Melbourne: weekly rent A$200–350 (shared), groceries A$80–120, public transport A$30–50. These figures are guides only.
International students enrolling in this ELICOS course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs (at least A$29,710 per year for living costs, plus tuition and OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may accompany the student. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs and a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
Victoria has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and over 26,000 courses. ELICOS is a popular starting point for many international students. Consider: your English level upon entry, the course length (67 weeks is substantial), and your goals (direct entry to a university program vs. general English). Melbourne's cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney; however, budgeting for rent, transport, and food is essential. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS courses, meaning you have rights regarding tuition refunds and course changes. HeadStart Academy provides free, independent resources to compare ELICOS options across Australia.
Follow these three steps to apply for English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) at Swinburne University of Technology:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Victoria). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Swinburne's international admissions page, check entry requirements (including English test scores), and submit your application. Deadlines vary; apply well in advance. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): After acceptance, Swinburne will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include all required documents: CoE, OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement.
Ready to start your ELICOS journey? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or apply directly to Swinburne University of Technology today.
English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.