General English (Elementary to Advanced) – CRICOS 085252K

Course Overview

General English (Elementary to Advanced) (CRICOS course code 085252K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Melbourne City Institute of Education Pty Ltd, as trustee for MCIE Unit Trust (CRICOS 03024A). The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. It belongs to the field of education 091501 – ELICOS, under the broader category of Society and Culture (09). This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The course does not include a mandatory work component, allowing full focus on language acquisition. Melbourne City Institute of Education is a private provider located in the heart of Melbourne, with a campus at Level 8, Collins Street. As a CRICOS-registered institution, it is subject to the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and legal protections. The indicative tuition fee is A$20,800, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,290, bringing the estimated total to A$22,090. Remember: these fees are indicative and set by the provider – always check the latest on their website. OSHC, living costs, and the visa application charge are not included.

What You'll Study

This course focuses on developing English language proficiency across all four macro skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students typically progress through levels from elementary to advanced, building vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The ELICOS field (091501) emphasises communicative competence, preparing students for academic, professional, or social contexts. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates of such programs often gain the ability to engage in complex conversations, understand authentic texts, and produce coherent written work. Melbourne City Institute of Education may offer additional focus on English for academic purposes or test preparation, depending on student needs. The course is not a VET qualification (no national code) and does not lead to a formal Australian Qualification Framework award. However, it provides a solid foundation for further studies or employment in English-speaking environments. With 52 weeks of immersion, students have ample time to progress from elementary to advanced levels, though actual progress depends on individual effort and prior exposure.

Duration and Study Mode

The course is listed on CRICOS as having a duration of 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks. Full-time study is typical for international students under a Student visa (Subclass 500). The language of instruction is English, and classes are likely delivered on campus at Level 8, Collins Street, Melbourne. No online or blended mode is specified in the CRICOS record, but students should confirm with the provider. This is a single qualification course – it does not combine with another award or lead directly to a foundation program. The intensive nature of an ELICOS course means contact hours are usually around 20-25 hours per week, with additional self-study. Melbourne City Institute of Education may offer multiple intake dates throughout the year. For accurate start dates and study schedules, always consult the institution directly. The CRICOS register shows this course as available for international students, and all ESOS protections apply.

Fees (Indicative)

The indicative fees for General English (Elementary to Advanced) at Melbourne City Institute of Education are as follows: tuition fee A$20,800, non-tuition fees A$1,290, giving an estimated total of A$22,090. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For international students in Melbourne, indicative weekly living costs are around A$450–$600 for rent, groceries, transport, and other essentials. Always confirm the exact fee schedule with Melbourne City Institute of Education before applying. The provider's website (www.mcie.edu.au) has the most up-to-date information. HeadStart Academy encourages students to budget carefully and consider all costs, including OSHC (mandatory for student visa holders), which can range from A$500–$700 per year depending on the policy. As a free resource, we provide this data to help you make informed decisions – no hidden fees, no commissions.

Entry Requirements

English language requirements for this course vary by provider. For General English (Elementary to Advanced), typical entry expectations include IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the starting level. Students with lower proficiency may need to begin at a lower level or complete a placement test. Prior qualifications: as a Non AQF Award, no specific academic background is mandated, but providers often require evidence of prior study equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12. Foundation or pathway options: this course is not a foundation program, but successful completion may lead to other qualifications at the same provider. Always check directly with Melbourne City Institute of Education for their specific entry requirements, English language test equivalencies, and any prerequisite skills. Note that meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a student visa – the Department of Home Affairs also assesses Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria and financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are still eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. The absence of a work component in the CRICOS record means the course is purely academic, with no supervised placement or internship. However, students may seek part-time work independently. Melbourne offers a vibrant job market, particularly in hospitality, retail, and administration. Earning extra income can help offset living costs, but students should prioritise their studies. The ESOS Act ensures that students have ample time to focus on their course without exploitation. For more information on work rights, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or see our Student Visa guide.

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered at Level 8, Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, with a diverse population of over 5 million, including a large international student community. The city has more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers (as of April 2026) offering thousands of courses across all levels. Living in Melbourne offers excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses), a vibrant cultural scene, and relatively moderate living costs compared to Sydney. Indicative weekly expenses: rent A$200–$400 (shared), groceries A$80–$150, transport A$30–$50. The Collins Street campus is in the central business district, easily accessible from all suburbs. Studying in Melbourne provides exposure to a multicultural environment, which can enhance language learning. HeadStart Academy's study/society-and-culture/Melbourne page lists other courses in this field available in the city.

Student Visa and How to Apply

To study General English (Elementary to Advanced) as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, financial evidence, and English proficiency if required. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. Melbourne City Institute of Education will issue a CoE once you accept their offer and pay the required deposit. The visa application is lodged online with the Department of Home Affairs. Processing times vary; check current estimates. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. Always consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance. Follow our three-step process to apply: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use our filters to find courses by level, field, and location. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – meet entry requirements, submit documents, and meet English test scores. Deadlines vary. 3) Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa – lodge your application with all supporting evidence. Once approved, you can begin your studies within the course start date.

Ready to start your journey? Follow our three-step application guide above or contact Melbourne City Institute of Education directly.

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