Primary (Prep to Year 6) (CRICOS course code 019047G) is a Primary School Studies course delivered by the Department of Education (CRICOS 00861K) across multiple schools in Victoria. Over 6 years and 11 months, international students receive a comprehensive primary education that prepares them for secondary schooling in Australia. This government-run program is ideal for families moving to Victoria with children aged 5–12. The course is fully registered on the CRICOS register, ensuring ESOS Act protections and quality standards. With an indicative tuition fee of A$112,000 and delivery at campuses like Abbotsford Primary School and Armadale Primary School, this page covers everything you need to know—from entry requirements to visa pathways. HeadStart Academy is your free guide to CRICOS-registered courses in Australia.
Primary (Prep to Year 6) (CRICOS course code 019047G) is a Primary School Studies delivered by Department of Education over 6 years 11 months (~360 weeks). This course falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (code 12) within General Education Programmes, specifically General Primary and Secondary Education. It is designed for international students seeking a high-quality primary education in Victoria, Australia. The Department of Education (CRICOS 00861K) is a government provider, ensuring adherence to national curriculum standards and ESOS Act protections. With multiple delivery locations across Victoria, including Abbotsford Primary School, Albany Rise Primary School, and Armadale Primary School, students can access learning in diverse communities. The course does not include a work component or foundation studies, and it is a single qualification (no dual award).
As a Primary School Studies course, the curriculum covers foundational learning areas such as English, mathematics, science, humanities, arts, and physical education. Students develop critical thinking, literacy, and numeracy skills through a balanced program that aligns with the Australian Curriculum. While specific syllabi vary by school, graduates are prepared for secondary education and further study. The field (General Primary and Secondary Education) emphasizes holistic development, including social and emotional skills, preparing students for lifelong learning. Note that this is a general guidance; HeadStart Academy recommends confirming exact curriculum details with the Department of Education.
The course is delivered full-time over 6 years 11 months (~360 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The duration covers Prep through Year 6, typically broken into primary school levels. Students attend regular school hours, usually 9 am to 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday, with school holidays following the Victorian school calendar.
Indicative tuition fees for Primary (Prep to Year 6) are A$112,000. Non-tuition fees (including enrollment, materials, and school amenities) total A$14,620, bringing the estimated total to A$126,620. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges. For current fees, always consult the Department of Education directly. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource with no referral fees.
English language requirements vary by provider—typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level, though primary school entry may have different expectations. Prior qualifications: students entering Prep typically need to be at least 5 years old by April of the intake year. The Department of Education may require academic records and health assessments. Foundation or pathway options are not offered for this course; refer to the provider for details. Always verify specific entry criteria with your chosen school.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at multiple Victorian government primary schools, including: Abbotsford Primary School (ABBOTSFORD), Albany Rise Primary School (MULGRAVE), Armadale Primary School (ARMADALE), Auburn South Primary School (HAWTHORN EAST), Avondale Primary School (AVONDALE HEIGHTS), and Bairnsdale Primary School (BAIRNSDALE). These schools are located in metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria, providing families with various urban and semi-rural settings. Each school is within easy access to public transport and local amenities.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study Primary (Prep to Year 6). Students under 18 typically need a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) for an accompanying parent or guardian. Visa conditions include maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, and demonstrating financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Primary (Prep to Year 6) at the Department of Education:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy’s search to filter by course level (Primary School Studies) and location (Victoria). Confirm the provider’s CRICOS status. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Complete the application form, provide required documents (e.g., academic records, English test scores), and meet application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once accepted, use the CoE to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Victoria offers a world-class education system with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering primary education. Living costs in Melbourne average A$1,500–2,000 per month for a single person (excluding rent), with weekly rent around A$300–500 for a one-bedroom apartment. Regional locations like Bairnsdale have lower costs. The state has excellent public transport, diverse communities, and a strong focus on student welfare. Consider proximity to schools, climate, and lifestyle when choosing a location. HeadStart Academy provides free data on all CRICOS-registered courses to help you decide.
Ready to start your primary education journey in Victoria? Explore CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy and contact your preferred school today.
Primary (Prep to Year 6) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Education. 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.