Exam Preparation-Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) (CRICOS course code 086113B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Ltd over 12 weeks. This course is designed for international students who want to achieve a high-level English qualification recognised globally. Offered in the vibrant city of Melbourne, this program prepares you for the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) exam, which is widely accepted by universities, employers, and governments. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment, and you can study with confidence under the ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy brings you all the details you need to make an informed decision about studying this course.
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Exam Preparation-Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) (CRICOS course code 086113B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Ltd over 12 weeks. This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' (subfield ELICOS), focusing on advanced English language skills. It is designed for students who aim to take the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) exam, a high-level qualification that demonstrates proficient English for academic and professional purposes. Holmes Commercial Colleges is a private provider CRICOS-registered (00067C) with a long history of delivering English language programs. Melbourne, where the course is delivered, is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. For more details on CRICOS registration, visit our /glossary/cricos page.
This course is part of the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) category, specifically targeting exam preparation. Students will develop advanced reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, with a focus on the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) exam format. The curriculum typically covers grammar, vocabulary, essay writing, oral fluency, and comprehension of complex texts. Graduates of this level often achieve a high level of English proficiency, equivalent to C1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, you can expect immersive English practice with exam strategies. This non-award course does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but prepares you for an internationally recognised certification.
The course duration is 12 weeks according to the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual qualification). Study modes typically include full-time on-campus delivery, with classes held at the provider's Melbourne campus. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment. This course is designed for intensive study, helping you prepare efficiently for the CAE exam. With 12 weeks of structured learning, you can build your skills quickly. For more on student visa conditions, see our /visa/student-visa-subclass-500 page.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, are: Tuition: A$4,200, Non-tuition fees: A$420, Estimated total: A$4,620. These fees are set by Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Ltd and are subject to change. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. For current fees, always check the provider's website at www.holmesinstitute.edu.au. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$21,000–A$25,000 per year, including rent (approximately A$250–A$400 per week), groceries, and transport. For OSHC details, visit /visa/oshc-health-cover.
English language requirements vary by provider. For this course, typically an IELTS score of 5.5–7.0 overall or equivalent is expected, depending on the course level. Prior qualifications: students should have a solid foundation in English, generally equivalent to an upper-intermediate level. This course is designed for those aiming to reach an advanced level. Foundation or pathway options: if you do not meet the requirements, some providers offer preparatory courses – check with Holmes Commercial Colleges directly. Always confirm entry requirements with the institution before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The absence of a work component means your focus will be entirely on exam preparation.
This course is delivered at Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Ltd in Melbourne, VIC. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a major education hub with over 150 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers excellent public transport, including trams, trains, and buses, making campus access easy. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent around A$300–A$450. For more on studying in Victoria, visit /states/vic and /study/society-and-culture/melbourne.
International students enrolling in this course typically need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa conditions include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and proof of sufficient financial capacity. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. For a full guide, see /visa/student-visa-subclass-500 and /visa/oshc-health-cover. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice – consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Exam Preparation-Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) at Holmes Commercial Colleges (Melbourne) Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Verify the provider's CRICOS registration (Holmes Commercial Colleges: 00067C). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, including English language test scores (e.g., IELTS, Cambridge), and submit your application along with required documents (passport, academic transcripts). Meet application deadlines (contact provider for exact dates). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your journey? Research CRICOS-registered providers and apply directly to Holmes Commercial Colleges. For more guidance, explore our student visa resources.
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Exam Preparation-Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) 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.