English for Study and Life (Upper-Intermediate) (CRICOS course code 097545J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Canberra Institute of Technology over 15 weeks. This intensive ELICOS program is designed to help international students develop upper-intermediate English skills for academic study and everyday life in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00001K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy, your free CRICOS research tool, provides this data from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered—over 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia. Student visa guidance is included for every course level, but remember: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. The course is delivered at CIT's Bruce and Phillip campuses in the ACT, giving students access to the nation's capital with a vibrant student community. Whether you aim to improve your English for further study or for daily life, this course provides a solid foundation under the ESOS Act protections that apply to all CRICOS-registered institutions.
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English for Study and Life (Upper-Intermediate) (CRICOS course code 097545J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Canberra Institute of Technology over 15 weeks. The course falls under the field of education 09 - Society and Culture (0915 Language and Literature, 091501 ELICOS). It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The language of instruction is English. As an ELICOS program, it focuses on improving English proficiency for academic purposes and general communication. Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is a government-owned TAFE institute with CRICOS provider code 00001K, ensuring all international students receive the protections of the ESOS Act. According to the CRICOS register, this course does not include a work component. The indicative tuition fee is A$3,500, with non-tuition fees of A$175, totalling A$3,675. These fees are indicative only and set by the provider—always confirm directly with CIT. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges. Canberra, as Australia's capital, has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse educational opportunities. The city's student population is around 45,000, with affordable living compared to Sydney or Melbourne—weekly rent averages A$300-400, groceries A$80-120, and public transport A$40-50.
This ELICOS program at the upper-intermediate level (typically equivalent to B2 on the CEFR) builds on existing English skills. Graduates typically learn to: understand complex texts and conversations on concrete and abstract topics; communicate fluently with native speakers; produce clear, detailed writing on a variety of subjects; and adapt language for academic and social contexts. The course aligns with the field of Language and Literature (091501), focusing on practical language use for study and everyday life. While the exact syllabus is set by Canberra Institute of Technology, ELICOS programs at this level often cover reading, writing, listening, speaking, grammar, and vocabulary tailored to real-world needs. Students may also develop skills for independent learning and cultural understanding. It is important to note that this course is not a VET course (no national code) and does not lead to a formal Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) award. Instead, it provides a pathway to further study or employment, and many students use it to meet English entry requirements for vocational or higher education courses at CIT or other institutions.
According to the CRICOS register, English for Study and Life (Upper-Intermediate) has a duration of 15 weeks. This is a full-time program with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification only—no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students should expect a standard full-time study load, typically around 20 hours per week of classes plus self-study. Canberra Institute of Technology may offer multiple intake dates throughout the year; check the provider's website for specific start dates. This short duration makes it ideal for students who need to improve their English quickly before progressing to a main study program. As with all CRICOS courses, international students must maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress to comply with visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for English for Study and Life (Upper-Intermediate) is A$3,500, with non-tuition fees of A$175, giving an estimated total of A$3,675. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, but are subject to change by Canberra Institute of Technology. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (approximately A$500-700 per year for single cover), living expenses (the Department of Home Affairs recommends A$21,041 per year for living costs), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees on the provider's website at https://international.cit.edu.au/ before applying. HeadStart Academy does not charge any referral fees—we are a free resource for students.
Entry requirements for ELICOS courses vary by provider. For upper-intermediate level, Canberra Institute of Technology typically requires a minimum English proficiency assessed through a placement test or an IELTS score of around 5.5 (or equivalent). Some students may enter without a formal test if they successfully complete a lower-level ELICOS course at the same institution. For this course, no specific prior qualifications are mandated beyond a basic educational level. Since it is a Non AQF Award, there are no specific academic prerequisites. However, students must meet the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement and financial capacity criteria for the student visa. Foundation or pathway options may be available if your English level is lower—refer to CIT's website for details. English language requirements vary by provider—typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. Always check with the provider for the most accurate information.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component according to the CRICOS register. However, as a student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the course term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work right is subject to visa conditions and cannot commence until the course starts. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including the quality of education and refund policies. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent—for work rights advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs.
This course is delivered at two campuses in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Canberra Institute of Technology - Vowels Crescent, BRUCE (Bruce, ACT) and CIT Woden (Phillip, ACT). Both campuses are in Canberra, the capital city, with a population of over 400,000 and a large student community. The Bruce campus is set in a green area near the University of Canberra, while the Woden campus is in the suburb of Phillip, about 10 km from the city centre. Public transport is accessible via bus networks, and students can use the MyWay card for discounted fares. The ACT has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a range of courses from ELICOS to university degrees. Living costs in Canberra are moderate; students can expect to pay around A$300-400 per week for rent, A$80-120 for groceries, and A$40-50 for public transport. The city is known for its high quality of life, safety, and cultural attractions.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study, work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks), and brings family members if eligible. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Canberra Institute of Technology, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, financial capacity to cover course fees, living costs, and OSHC, and English proficiency (if required). OSHC is mandatory—Australian Health Management or similar offers cover. The visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). Processing times vary; check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections ensure you receive quality education and have access to refund mechanisms if the provider fails to deliver.
Canberra offers a unique study experience: it's a planned city with a calm atmosphere, excellent safety records, and a diverse population. Over 45,000 international students call Canberra home, drawn by institutions like Australian National University, University of Canberra, and CIT. Living costs are lower than Sydney or Melbourne, but the city is smaller, with fewer entertainment options. Public transport is reliable, and the city is bike-friendly. If you value a focused study environment with access to Australia's political and cultural landmarks, Canberra is an excellent choice. For ELICOS students, the supportive community and high-quality language programs at CIT provide a strong foundation for future studies. However, consider whether you prefer a larger city with more nightlife and job opportunities. HeadStart Academy's data shows that the ACT has 102 CRICOS-registered providers offering 1,200+ courses, including many ELICOS options. Always research and compare providers to find the best fit for your goals.
Follow these three steps to enrol in English for Study and Life (Upper-Intermediate) at Canberra Institute of Technology:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's free search tool to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that Canberra Institute of Technology (CRICOS 00001K) offers this course and check its current status on the CRICOS register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit CIT's international website (https://international.cit.edu.au/) to review entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with required documents (passport, academic records, English test results if applicable). Some providers require a non-refundable application fee.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, CIT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online through ImmiAccount. Prepare your GTE statement, evidence of financial capacity, OSHC policy, and passport. Visa processing typically takes 4-8 weeks. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for visa assistance.
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English for Study and Life (Upper-Intermediate) 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.