Looking for a Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS 102279J) in Melbourne? This qualification, delivered by Melbourne City Institute of Education Pty Ltd, as trustee for MCIE Unit Trust (CRICOS 03024A), prepares you for a rewarding career in aged care. Over 42 weeks (~10 months), you'll gain the skills to support older Australians with complex needs, work in residential or community settings, and develop leadership abilities as a team leader. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students – this course is one of them. As a CRICOS-registered program, you can study on a Student visa (Subclass 500) and access ESOS Act protections, ensuring your rights as an international student are safeguarded. Whether you're looking to start a new career or upgrade your qualifications, this course offers a pathway into the rapidly growing aged care sector. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, and HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees.
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Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 102279J) is a Certificate IV delivered by Melbourne City Institute of Education Pty Ltd, as trustee for MCIE Unit Trust over 42 weeks (~10 months). The course is at AQF Level 4 and falls under the field of education 090507 - Care for the Aged (Society and Culture). The VET national code is CHC43015. This qualification is designed for those who want to provide person-centred support to older people, including those with dementia, and may lead to roles such as aged care team leader or support worker. It includes a work component to ensure graduates are job-ready. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students.
In the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services, this Certificate IV covers topics such as individualised support, dementia care, legal and ethical considerations, and working with diverse groups. Graduates typically learn to coordinate services, implement care plans, and support independence. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, students can expect a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The course is taught in English, requiring at least an IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall. This level of study also helps develop communication and critical thinking skills essential for the aged care sector.
The course runs for 42 weeks (approximately 10 months) as listed on the CRICOS register. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). Language of instruction is English. Study mode is typically full-time on campus, with classes held at the provider's Melbourne location. International students should be prepared for a full-time study load of around 20 hours per week, plus self-study. The 42-week duration includes scheduled breaks, and the course must be completed within the period specified on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$11,400, with non-tuition fees of A$981 (including materials, administration, etc.), bringing the estimated total to A$12,381. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Costs are set by the institution and may change – always confirm directly with Melbourne City Institute of Education via their website www.mcie.edu.au. As a guide, international students in Melbourne should budget approximately A$500–A$700 per week for rent, food, and transport. OSHC costs around A$600–A$800 per year and visa application is A$1,600 (as of 2026). All fee data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and is indicative only.
English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall is typically required. Prior qualifications: completion of Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) is often expected. Some providers may consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options are available; refer to the provider for details. Specific entry requirements are set by Melbourne City Institute of Education – contact them directly for the most accurate information. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 6 weeks of industry placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 120 hours. This work-integrated learning takes the form of a clinical or industry placement in an aged care setting, such as a residential care facility or community care organisation. It allows you to apply your skills in a real-world environment and is an essential part of the qualification. The provider will help arrange the placement to ensure it meets CRICOS requirements and supports your learning outcomes.
Delivery is at Level 8, Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria – right in the heart of the city. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant student population of over 250,000 international students. It offers excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) making the campus easily accessible. Living in Melbourne means enjoying a multicultural environment, great food, and world-class events. The cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney – typical rent for a shared apartment is A$200–A$350 per week, and public transport costs around A$10 per day on a myki card. There are many CRICOS-registered providers in the area, so you'll have plenty of support from the student community.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate that your primary intention is to study. Financial capacity must be shown: tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student in 2026), and travel. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment and attendance. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act.
Melbourne is an excellent choice for studying ageing support due to its strong healthcare sector, aging population, and demand for skilled workers. The city has numerous aged care facilities and community organisations that offer work placement opportunities. As a student, you'll benefit from Melbourne's large international community, diverse culture, and relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney. Consider that the aged care sector is growing rapidly due to Australia's ageing demographics, meaning strong job prospects post-study. However, ensure you research the specific placement options offered by Melbourne City Institute of Education and check if the location suits your lifestyle.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Ageing Support at Melbourne City Institute of Education: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Compare this course with others in Melbourne. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit www.mcie.edu.au to check entry requirements, English test results (e.g., IELTS), application deadlines, and submit your application. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your student visa – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Then apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and financial evidence ready.
Ready to start your aged care career in Melbourne? Use HeadStart Academy to compare more courses or contact Melbourne City Institute of Education directly via www.mcie.edu.au.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne City Institute of Education Pty Ltd, as trustee for MCIE Unit Trust. 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.