English for Academic Purposes (Upper Intermediate) (1-12 weeks) (CRICOS course code 049282C) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Ltd over 12 weeks. This ELICOS course (Field of Education 091501) is designed to help international students develop the academic English skills needed for further study in Australia. Delivered in Melbourne, Victoria, the course focuses on reading, writing, listening, and speaking in an academic context. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider CRICOS 00067C), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment, including ESOS Act protections. Holmes Commercial Colleges is a private provider with over 20 years of experience, conveniently located in Melbourne's CBD near public transport. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
This course belongs to the field of Language and Literature (ELICOS), which focuses on developing English proficiency for academic purposes. Students typically engage in activities that build skills in critical reading, academic writing, listening to lectures, oral presentations, and participation in tutorials. The upper intermediate level assumes a solid foundation in English grammar and vocabulary, and aims to prepare students for direct entry into diploma or degree programs. While specific syllabus content is set by the provider, graduates of this level generally achieve a competency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0, enabling them to progress to further studies or meet English requirements for vocational pathways. Note that this is a Non AQF Award, meaning it does not contribute to the Australian Qualifications Framework, but it is a common pathway to higher qualifications.
The course runs for 12 weeks, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, full-time, and designed for international students. It is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. The standard study load is typically 20 hours per week, allowing students to also work part-time (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term). Classes are held at the Holmes Commercial Colleges campus in Melbourne, with a mix of classroom teaching, self-study, and language lab sessions. As an ELICOS program, it is common for providers to offer multiple start dates throughout the year, so check with Holmes for exact intake schedules.
The indicative tuition fee for English for Academic Purposes (Upper Intermediate) (1-12 weeks) is A$4,200, with non-tuition fees of A$420, bringing the estimated total to A$4,620. These fees are set by Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Ltd and are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note that fees are subject to change and do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For current fees and any additional costs, always confirm directly with the provider at www.holmesinstitute.edu.au. As a guide, international students in Melbourne should budget approximately A$450–600 per week for accommodation, food, and transport.
English language requirements for ELICOS courses vary by provider. For this upper intermediate level, Holmes Commercial Colleges typically expects applicants to have an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall or equivalent. If you do not have a formal test result, many providers offer a placement test. Prior qualifications: you should have completed secondary schooling or equivalent in your home country. Foundation or pathway options are available through the provider if you need a lower level of English first. Always check with Holmes for specific entry criteria and evidence requirements. As with all CRICOS courses, you must meet the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement for your student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a purely academic English program. However, as a student visa holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs, but should not be relied upon as a primary income source. If you are seeking a program with a work placement, consider vocational courses that include internships.
The course is delivered at Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Ltd, located in Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a student population of over 250,000 international students from 170 countries. The campus is centrally located near Flinders Street Station, with easy access to trains, trams, and buses. The city offers a vibrant student life with numerous cafés, libraries, and study spaces. Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity, affordable living relative to Sydney (indicative weekly rent A$250–350 for shared accommodation), and strong public transport network. There are over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, and Victoria alone has hundreds, making it a top study destination.
International students studying this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work part-time, and include family members. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Holmes Commercial Colleges, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, valid health insurance (OSHC), and evidence of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. You must also meet the English language requirement (which this course helps you achieve). Student visa holders have legal rights under the ESOS Act, including access to a complaints process and tuition protection. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for English for Academic Purposes (Upper Intermediate) at Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Melbourne). Confirm that Holmes Commercial Colleges (CRICOS 00067C) offers this exact course code 049282C. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — Submit your application via the Holmes website (www.holmesinstitute.edu.au) or through an authorised agent. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (if available), and passport. Check application deadlines and intake dates. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, Holmes will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, GTE statement, and financial capacity. Processing times vary; apply early.
Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, with a strong economy, excellent universities, and a multicultural community. For ELICOS students, the city offers numerous language practice opportunities and pathway programs to higher education. The cost of living is moderate: expect to pay around A$250–350 per week for rent in shared accommodation, A$80–100 for groceries, and A$40–50 for a weekly public transport pass. Melbourne has 7 universities and many private providers, making it a hub for international education. Consider your personal preferences for climate (mild winters, warm summers), lifestyle, and career goals. HeadStart Academy has detailed city guides to help you decide.
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English for Academic Purposes (Upper Intermediate) (1-12 weeks) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) 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.