ECC Foundation Program- General (CRICOS course code 109156H) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Edith Cowan College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This foundation program is designed for international students who wish to gain the academic and English language skills necessary to progress to undergraduate study at Edith Cowan University. It falls under the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes (129999), providing a general preparatory curriculum rather than a specialized discipline. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrollment, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. Students who successfully complete this program may pathway into a range of bachelor degrees, subject to meeting entry requirements. HeadStart Academy sources all course data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to provide you with reliable information. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses available, Australia offers extensive study options for international students.
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ECC Foundation Program- General (CRICOS 109156H) is a Non AQF Award offered by Edith Cowan College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01312J), a private provider based in Western Australia. The course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. It does not lead to a dual qualification, but it serves as a foundation studies program—a pathway for international students to meet the academic and English requirements for entry into undergraduate courses at Edith Cowan University. The field of education is 129999 Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c., meaning the curriculum covers a mix of general subjects to build foundational knowledge. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, this program is protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your tuition fees are safeguarded and you receive a quality education.
While specific syllabus details are set by Edith Cowan College, foundation programs like this typically develop academic skills in areas such as critical thinking, research, written and oral communication, and numeracy. Students may also study introductory units in fields like humanities, business, or science, depending on their intended undergraduate pathway. The goal is to bridge the gap between your previous education and Australian university standards. Graduates emerge with improved English proficiency and the confidence to succeed in degree-level study. Since this is a Non AQF Award, it is not a nationally accredited qualification but is widely recognized by Australian universities as a valid pathway program.
The ECC Foundation Program- General runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The course is delivered in English only. It is a single qualification—no dual qualification is offered. Full-time study is required to meet visa conditions. The program may be available in different study modes (e.g., on-campus) at the two delivery locations in Western Australia: Joondalup Campus (10 Injune Way, Joondalup) and Mount Lawley Campus (Mount Lawley). Both are in the Perth metropolitan area, which has a large international student community and excellent public transport connections.
Course fees are set by Edith Cowan College Pty Ltd and are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The estimated tuition fee for ECC Foundation Program- General is A$29,400. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, administration, or orientation) are estimated at A$3,725, making an estimated total of A$33,125. Please note: these amounts do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC costs approximately A$600–$1,000 per year. Living costs in Perth average around A$450–$600 per week for rent, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider by visiting www.edithcowancollege.edu.au. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge any referral fees.
Entry requirements for foundation programs vary by provider. For ECC Foundation Program- General, students typically need to have completed Year 11 or equivalent in their home country, with satisfactory grades. English language proficiency is required—commonly IELTS 5.5 overall (with no band below 5.0) or equivalent, but confirm with Edith Cowan College as requirements may change. Foundation studies are designed for students who do not yet meet direct university entry. This program may also accept students with higher levels of English for a more intensive pathway. Always check the official provider website for the most current requirements. HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements and recommends verifying with the institution.
ECC Foundation Program- General has no mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. However, this course does not include any internship, work placement, or practicum as part of its structure.
This course is delivered at two campuses of Edith Cowan College: Joondalup Campus (10 Injune Way, Joondalup, WA 6027) and Mount Lawley Campus (Mount Lawley, WA 6050). Both are in the Perth metropolitan area. Joondalup is a northern suburb with affordable housing and a growing student hub. Mount Lawley is closer to Perth's city center, known for its vibrant café culture and easy access to public transport. Perth has over 60 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses. The city's cost of living is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rents around $350–$500 for shared accommodation.
International students enrolling in ECC Foundation Program- General will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: being enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (this one is), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). With a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled holidays. After completing this foundation program, you may apply for a new visa for subsequent study. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs for the latest requirements.
Western Australia, particularly Perth, is a popular destination for international students seeking a balanced lifestyle. With over 200,000 international students across Australia, WA hosts a significant proportion. The state offers world-class education institutions, beautiful beaches, and a multicultural environment. Living costs in Perth are moderate: weekly rent A$350–$500, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$30–$50. The state has strong job opportunities in sectors like mining, healthcare, and education. However, consider the distance from other Australian cities and the climate (warm summers, mild winters). Foundation students often appreciate the supportive learning environment and smaller class sizes at Edith Cowan College.
Follow these three steps to apply for ECC Foundation Program- General at Edith Cowan College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm the course (CRICOS 109156H) meets your goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.edithcowancollege.edu.au to review entry requirements, English language tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and application deadlines. Submit required documents (transcripts, passport, proof of English proficiency). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa online, ensuring you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy cannot guarantee visa outcomes—consult a registered migration agent if needed.
Start your journey today by researching CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy.
ECC Foundation Program- General is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan College Pty 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.