English for Study and Life (Elementary) (CRICOS course code 097541B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Canberra Institute of Technology over 15 weeks. This ELICOS program is designed for international students who need to build foundational English skills for academic study and daily life in Australia. As a government-owned TAFE institution, CIT is CRICOS-registered (provider code 00001K) and offers high-quality English language training. Canberra, Australia's capital, hosts over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses, making it a vibrant yet manageable city for international students. This course is ideal for students who have little to no prior English learning and want to progress to higher levels of English or vocational study. With two convenient campuses in Bruce and Phillip, CIT provides a supportive learning environment with access to modern facilities and student services.
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As an ELICOS program in the field of Language and Literature (091501), this course focuses on developing practical English communication skills. Students typically learn to understand and use everyday expressions, introduce themselves and others, ask and answer simple questions about personal details, and interact in basic conversations. The curriculum covers listening, speaking, reading, and writing at an elementary level, preparing students for more advanced English courses or entry into vocational or higher education programs. Graduates will have a solid foundation to progress to English for Academic Purposes or directly into a CIT vocational qualification, subject to meeting entry requirements. The course is delivered face-to-face, ensuring plenty of interaction with teachers and peers.
The course is scheduled for 15 weeks (15 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). All instruction is in English, and the program is delivered as a single qualification with no dual qualification or foundation study pathway. Students are expected to attend classes full-time, typically 20 hours per week, to meet student visa requirements. The course is not offered online; all study is on-campus at CIT's Bruce or Phillip locations in Canberra. Canberra has a well-connected public transport system, with buses serving both campuses, making it easy for students to commute.
Tuition fees for English for Study and Life (Elementary) are A$3,500, with non-tuition fees of A$175, giving an estimated total of A$3,675. These fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. You should confirm current fees directly with Canberra Institute of Technology before applying. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders, living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. In Canberra, indicative living costs are around A$450–600 per week for rent, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$30–40 for public transport. Always budget for the full duration of your stay. Visit the CIT international website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. However, for an elementary ELICOS course, minimal English is expected; the program is designed for beginners. Prior academic qualifications are not mandatory for this level. CIT may require students to sit a placement test upon arrival. If you do not meet the English level, the provider may offer a pathway from a lower level. Foundation or pathway options are available for students aiming to progress to vocational courses. Always check the specific entry requirements with Canberra Institute of Technology.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain part-time work experience in Canberra while studying.
The course is delivered at two CIT campuses in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory: Canberra Institute of Technology - Vowels Crescent, BRUCE, and CIT Woden in PHILLIP. Both locations are well-served by public transport. The Bruce campus is near the University of Canberra and offers a lively student atmosphere, while the Phillip campus is in the Woden town centre with easy access to shops and services. Canberra has a growing international student population, with over 20,000 international students enrolled across various institutions. The city is known for its high quality of life, safety, and cultural attractions.
International students enrolling in this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course. OSHC is mandatory. After receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CIT, you apply for the visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. Consult a MARA agent or homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised guidance.
Canberra offers a unique study experience as a planned capital city with a strong focus on education and research. With over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, you have diverse options. Living costs are slightly lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with average rent for a share house around A$200–300 per week. Public transport is efficient, and the city is bike-friendly. Canberra's student population is around 50,000, creating a multicultural environment. The city is home to national cultural institutions like Parliament House and the National Gallery. If you prefer a smaller, safer city with ample green spaces and a strong sense of community, Canberra could be ideal.
Follow these three steps to secure your place:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to search for ELICOS courses in Canberra. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location to find options including this CIT course.
2. **Apply directly to Canberra Institute of Technology** – Check the entry requirements, which typically include a completed application form, passport copy, and evidence of English proficiency if applicable. Deadlines vary, so apply early. Visit https://international.cit.edu.au/ to start your application.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once CIT issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide all required documents, including OSHC evidence, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Ready to start your English journey in Canberra? Apply directly to Canberra Institute of Technology today.
English for Study and Life (Elementary) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Canberra Institute of Technology. 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.