ELICOS-Intermediate (CRICOS course code 075451G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE over 23 weeks. This course is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency to an intermediate level. Located in Mildura, Victoria, Sunraysia Institute of TAFE is a government-owned provider (CRICOS 01985A) with a strong track record in vocational and language education. ELICOS stands for English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students, and the Intermediate level prepares you for further study or everyday communication in English. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, you benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy presents this information directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. Whether you're planning to pursue higher education or simply want to build your English skills in an Australian environment, this course offers a structured pathway. Mildura, with its vibrant student community and affordable living costs, provides an ideal setting for language immersion. Read on to learn about fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and how to apply.
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The field of education for ELICOS-Intermediate is 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0915 - Language and Literature, under ELICOS (091501). As a Non AQF Award, this course focuses on developing practical English language skills rather than a formal Australian qualification. Typically, intermediate-level ELICOS programs cover reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with an emphasis on grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. You will engage in classroom activities, group discussions, and assignments that simulate real-life situations. Graduates often achieve sufficient proficiency to progress to vocational or higher education courses, or to use English confidently in professional and social settings. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the CRICOS registration ensures that the course meets national standards for ELICOS delivery. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE tailors its curriculum to the needs of international students, integrating Australian cultural contexts and academic preparation. This course does not lead to a dual qualification or foundation studies, but it can serve as a stepping stone to further study at the institute or elsewhere.
The ELICOS-Intermediate course at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE runs for 23 weeks (23 weeks as per the CRICOS register). Instruction is conducted entirely in English, which is essential for language immersion. The course is a single qualification, meaning it is not combined with another award. Typically, full-time study load for ELICOS is 20 hours per week of face-to-face classes, plus additional self-study. This duration is designed to bring students from a pre-intermediate to an intermediate English level, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) B1 or B2. Classes are held during standard academic terms, and the provider may offer multiple intake dates throughout the year. International students should check the exact schedule with Sunraysia Institute of TAFE to plan their visa and travel.
The indicative tuition fee for ELICOS-Intermediate is A$5,460, with non-tuition fees of A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$5,460. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders. Living expenses in Mildura are generally lower than in major cities; indicative weekly costs might be A$200–350 for rent (shared accommodation), A$70–100 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport or local travel. The visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for the main applicant) is also not included. Always confirm current fees with Sunraysia Institute of TAFE at [www.sunitafe.edu.au](http://www.sunitafe.edu.au) before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider. For ELICOS-Intermediate, Sunraysia Institute of TAFE typically expects applicants to have an English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5 overall, though some courses may require up to 7.0 depending on level. Prior qualifications: students should have completed the equivalent of Year 10 or higher, and evidence of previous English study may be accepted. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable to this specific course, but the provider can advise on alternative entry. Since this is a Non AQF Award, no Australian qualification is granted, but a certificate of completion is provided. Always refer to the provider's official entry criteria.
This course has no work component. It is purely academic language training with no mandatory work placement. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work is not a component of the curriculum but may be undertaken outside study hours.
ELICOS-Intermediate is delivered at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE - Mildura campus, located in Mildura, Victoria. Mildura is a regional city in north-west Victoria with a population of around 35,000. The campus is accessible by local bus and has facilities for international students. Mildura offers a lower cost of living compared to Melbourne or Sydney, with a friendly community and a strong agricultural economy. There are approximately 10 CRICOS-registered providers in the Mildura area, offering a range of courses. The Mildura campus is the sole location for this course.
International students enrolling in ELICOS-Intermediate must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English proficiency (unless exempt). OSHC must be arranged for the duration of the visa. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but these are subject to visa conditions. The ESOS Act provides consumer protections, including Tuition Protection Service (TPS) if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Mildura offers a unique study experience with a relaxed lifestyle, affordable housing, and a close-knit community. It is ideal for students who prefer a quieter environment away from big-city distractions. Living costs are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$150–A$250. The city has good public transport and is connected by air to Melbourne. However, job opportunities for students are more limited than in major cities, so part-time work may be harder to find. The region is known for its warm climate and outdoor activities. If you value affordability and a supportive learning environment, Mildura could be a great choice. For more provider information, see our [institutions page](/institutions/01985A/sunraysia-institute-of-tafe) for Sunraysia Institute of TAFE.
Ready to apply? Research CRICOS-registered providers, apply directly to Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, and start your journey.
ELICOS-Intermediate is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE. 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.