ELICOS-Upper Intermediate (CRICOS course code 075452G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE over 23 weeks. This course is designed for international students who want to improve their English language skills to an upper intermediate level, enabling them to communicate more effectively in academic, professional, and social contexts. As an ELICOS program, it focuses on developing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, as well as grammar and vocabulary. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE is a government-owned provider (CRICOS 01985A) with a strong reputation for quality vocational and language education. The course is delivered at its Mildura campus in Victoria, offering students a supportive learning environment in a regional setting. With an indicative tuition fee of A$5,460, this course is an affordable pathway for students aiming to meet English requirements for further study or employment in Australia.
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ELICOS-Upper Intermediate (CRICOS course code 075452G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE over 23 weeks. This course is part of the field of education 0915 - Language and Literature, specifically ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). The program is designed to help students achieve an upper intermediate level of English proficiency, typically equivalent to B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Graduates of this level can understand the main ideas of complex texts, interact with a degree of fluency, and produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects. The course prepares students for further academic study, vocational training, or employment in English-speaking environments.
While the specific syllabus is set by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, ELICOS-Upper Intermediate courses generally cover advanced grammar structures, academic writing, critical reading, listening comprehension, and oral communication. Students engage with authentic materials such as news articles, podcasts, lectures, and debates to build real-world language skills. The curriculum also includes cross-cultural communication and study skills to help international students adapt to the Australian education system. Assessment typically involves written assignments, presentations, listening tasks, and reading comprehension tests. This course does not lead to a formal qualification but provides a certificate of completion that many Australian institutions accept as evidence of English proficiency.
The course runs for 23 weeks (as registered on CRICOS). Study is full-time and delivered face-to-face in a classroom setting at the Mildura campus. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and is not classified as foundation studies or VET. Students attend approximately 20 hours of classes per week, with additional self-study time recommended. The course is structured to allow students to progress from intermediate to upper intermediate level within the 23-week period.
Indicative fees for ELICOS-Upper Intermediate at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE are A$5,460 for tuition, with non-tuition fees of A$0, giving an estimated total of A$5,460. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are indicative only – they are set by the institution and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly on the Sunraysia Institute of TAFE website (www.sunitafe.edu.au). This total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. As a guide, international students in Mildura should budget approximately A$20,000–A$25,000 per year for living expenses (including rent, groceries, and transport). OSHC costs vary by provider; annual premiums start from around A$500 for a single student.
Entry requirements for ELICOS courses vary by provider. For ELICOS-Upper Intermediate, Sunraysia Institute of TAFE typically requires students to have completed an intermediate level of English (e.g., IELTS 5.0 or equivalent) or pass a placement test. English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level, but for this course a lower score may be acceptable as it is a language training course. Prior academic qualifications: students should have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Year 10 or above in Australia. There are no foundation or pathway options bundled with this course; students should check with the provider for any articulation arrangements. Always verify specific entry criteria directly with Sunraysia Institute of TAFE.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs while you study.
ELICOS-Upper Intermediate is delivered at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE - Mildura, located in Mildura, Victoria. Mildura is a regional city on the Murray River with a population of about 35,000. It has a growing international student community and offers a relaxed lifestyle with lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The campus is well-served by public transport, and the city has a range of accommodation options including student housing, rentals, and homestays. Victoria is home to over 320 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a wide variety of courses. Studying in Mildura gives you a unique regional Australian experience while accessing quality education.
International students enrolling in this course will need 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 language proficiency (if not from an exempt country). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain valid OSHC for the duration of your stay. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs website or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for ELICOS-Upper Intermediate at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the HeadStart Academy directory to filter by course level (Non AQF Award) and field (ELICOS) to compare options. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (Sunraysia Institute of TAFE is CRICOS 01985A). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check entry requirements, submit your English language test results (if applicable), and meet application deadlines. You can apply online via the Sunraysia Institute of TAFE website (www.sunitafe.edu.au) or through a registered education agent. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application through ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Mildura offers a unique blend of regional lifestyle and affordability. With a lower cost of living than major cities – indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$150–A$220, groceries about A$80–A$120, and a monthly public transport pass approximately A$60 – it's an attractive option for budget-conscious students. The city has a warm climate and is close to national parks and the Murray River, ideal for outdoor activities. The student community is smaller, so expect a close-knit environment. If you prefer a quieter study experience with access to nature and lower expenses, Mildura could be a great choice. However, if you need the diversity and opportunities of a big city, consider Melbourne or Sydney. Always weigh your personal preferences and career goals.
Ready to improve your English? Start your application for ELICOS-Upper Intermediate at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE. Use our free directory to explore more ELICOS courses across Australia.
ELICOS-Upper 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.