English for Academic Purposes (CRICOS course code 081503F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Ashton College Pty. Ltd. over 42 weeks (~10 months). This program is designed to help international students develop the English language skills needed for tertiary study in Australia. As an ELICOS course (Field of Education 091501), it focuses on academic reading, writing, listening, and speaking, as well as critical thinking and research skills. Ashton College Pty. Ltd. (CRICOS 03142F) is a private provider with campuses in Melbourne's Docklands and Footscray. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register and are delivered by CRICOS-registered providers, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards and the ESOS Act.
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English for Academic Purposes (CRICOS course code 081503F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Ashton College Pty. Ltd. over 42 weeks (~10 months). This course is classified under Field of Education 091501 (ELICOS) and is designed for students who need to improve their English proficiency to meet university or vocational entry requirements. As an ELICOS program, it focuses on academic language skills, including essay writing, seminar presentations, lecture comprehension, and research techniques. Students will develop the confidence to participate in academic environments and prepare for further studies in Australia. The course is delivered in English only and does not lead to a dual qualification or include a mandatory work component. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource; all data is sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and is subject to change.
While specific syllabi are set by Ashton College, ELICOS programs at this level typically cover academic reading strategies, critical analysis of texts, structured writing (essays, reports, summaries), effective listening and note-taking, oral presentation skills, and grammar for academic purposes. Students also learn to synthesise information from multiple sources and participate in discussions and debates. The course aims to bridge the gap between general English and the demands of tertiary study in Australia. Graduates often progress to vocational certificates, diplomas, or university degrees. The field of Language and Literature (0915) encompasses these skills, preparing students for further education or professional pathways in English-speaking environments.
According to the CRICOS register, English for Academic Purposes has a duration of 42 weeks (~10 months). This is a single qualification (no dual award) with no mandatory work component. The language of instruction is English. As an ELICOS course, it may be offered in various study modes; you should confirm with Ashton College whether the program is available full-time or part-time. The 42-week duration is typical for academic English preparation courses, allowing sufficient time to develop language proficiency to a level suitable for undergraduate or postgraduate study. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course attendance.
The indicative tuition fee for English for Academic Purposes at Ashton College Pty. Ltd. is A$9,900. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$550, bringing the total indicative cost to A$10,450. Please note: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$2,000–2,500 per month for rent, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Ashton College at www.ashtoncollege.edu.au, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the CRICOS register and updates it regularly, but we recommend checking with the provider before applying.
English language requirements for this course vary by provider. Typically, ELICOS programs require a minimum IELTS score of 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the level of English for Academic Purposes you are entering. Some providers also accept equivalent scores from PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English exams. Prior qualifications expected: completion of senior secondary schooling or equivalent. If you do not meet the English requirement, Ashton College may offer pathway options or a general English program as a prerequisite. Always check with Ashton College for specific entry criteria and any foundation options. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate English proficiency as required by the Department of Home Affairs.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain work experience and support your living costs while studying. All CRICOS-registered courses must comply with ESOS Act requirements, ensuring student welfare and quality education. For work rights and visa conditions, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
English for Academic Purposes is delivered at two campuses in Victoria: 108 Newquay Prom, DOCKLANDS VIC 3008 (Docklands, Melbourne) and 213 Nicholson St, Footscray (Footscray, Melbourne). Both are in the city of Melbourne, which has a vibrant international student community and over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Docklands is a modern waterfront precinct with excellent tram and train connections, while Footscray is a multicultural hub with affordable living options. Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong job market and diverse cultural scene. Typical weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–350, with groceries costing A$80–150 per week. Public transport is accessible via Myki cards.
To study English for Academic Purposes in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to: meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement; have sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC; and maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. It's important to apply for your visa after receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund protections.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top destination for international students, hosting over 150,000 students annually. It offers a diverse, inclusive environment with world-class universities and vocational colleges. Living costs are generally higher than in smaller cities but lower than Sydney. The city has excellent public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Docklands and Footscray are both well-connected to the city centre. When choosing a study location, consider your budget, preferred lifestyle, and proximity to your campus. Melbourne's cultural diversity means you'll find community groups and support services for international students. HeadStart Academy's VIC page (/states/vic) provides more state-specific information.
Applying for English for Academic Purposes at Ashton College Pty. Ltd. is a straightforward process. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like this one, filtering by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered for visa eligibility. 2. Apply directly to Ashton College: Submit your application through their website (www.ashtoncollege.edu.au) or via an education agent. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy, and any additional forms. Check entry requirements and application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Apply through the Department of Home Affairs, demonstrating GTE, financial capacity, and OSHC. Remember, HeadStart Academy provides free guidance but does not handle applications.
Ready to apply? Start your journey by checking CRICOS registration and contacting Ashton College directly.
English for Academic Purposes is a CRICOS-registered programme at Ashton College Pty. 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.