IELTS Preparation (CRICOS course code 109227J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Unison Education and Training Pty Ltd over 36 weeks (~8 months). This course is designed for international students who need to improve their English language proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking to achieve the IELTS score required for university admission or migration purposes. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04003J), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. Unison Education and Training is a private college based in Melbourne, Victoria, offering this course at its campus on Lonsdale Street in the city centre. The ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) field ensures students receive targeted preparation for the IELTS test, which is widely accepted by Australian institutions and the Department of Home Affairs. All international students studying in Australia benefit from ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee safeguards and access to complaint mechanisms. HeadStart Academy provides this data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. Please note: fees shown are indicative – always confirm with the provider. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – consult a MARA agent for visa advice.
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IELTS Preparation (CRICOS 109227J) is a Non AQF Award course classified under Field of Education 0915 – Language and Literature, specifically ELICOS. It is offered by Unison Education and Training Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (04003J) based in Victoria. The course runs for 36 weeks (approximately 8 months) and is conducted entirely in English. It carries no dual qualification or foundation studies component, and there is no mandatory work component. The indicative tuition fee is A$11,400, with non-tuition fees of A$600, totalling A$12,000 (excluding OSHC, living costs, and visa charges). This course is ideal for students aiming to meet English proficiency requirements for further study or skilled migration.
This course focuses on developing the four key language skills assessed in the IELTS exam: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Students practise test-taking strategies, time management, and academic or general training modules depending on their goals. Typical learning outcomes include achieving a target IELTS band score (often 5.5 to 7.0), improving grammatical accuracy, expanding vocabulary, and building confidence in English communication. Classes are interactive and may include mock tests, group discussions, and individual feedback. As an ELICOS program, it follows the National ELT Accreditation Scheme (NEAS) quality standards. The curriculum is designed by Unison Education and Training to align with current IELTS testing formats.
The course is delivered over 36 weeks (approximately 8 months) on a full-time basis. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – no dual awards or foundation pathway is included. The CRICOS register lists the duration as 36 weeks. Students typically attend classes multiple days per week at the Melbourne campus. The course does not include any work component, so students focus solely on academic preparation. For visa purposes, this duration meets the minimum study requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500) if combined with other courses or if the student already meets English requirements elsewhere. Always confirm the exact study schedule with Unison Education and Training.
The indicative tuition fee for IELTS Preparation (109227J) is A$11,400, with additional non-tuition fees of A$600, bringing the estimated total to A$12,000. Please note that this excludes Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year depending on the provider. Living costs in Melbourne average around A$500 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always verify current fees directly with Unison Education and Training at their official website. Fees are subject to change and are set by the institution – HeadStart Academy provides these figures for guidance only.
English language requirements for IELTS Preparation vary by provider. Typically, students need an overall IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) to enrol in an ELICOS program at this level. Some providers may accept lower scores for beginner classes, but this course likely expects intermediate proficiency. Prior qualifications: a minimum of Year 12 or equivalent is usually required for non-AQF courses. No specific prior study is mandatory, but students must be at least 18 years old. If you do not meet the English requirement, you may need to take a foundation or pathway program – consult the provider for options. Unison Education and Training may have its own placement test. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate adequate English for your study level.
This course has no mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, the course itself does not include a work component. Students may seek part-time work independently in Melbourne, where job opportunities are available in hospitality, retail, and other sectors. The flexibility of a 36-week program allows for part-time employment. Remember that work rights are attached to your visa, not the course – always comply with Department of Home Affairs rules.
The course is delivered at Level 4, 382 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, in the heart of the central business district (CBD). Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant student population of over 250,000 international students. The city offers excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) – the campus is near multiple tram stops and Melbourne Central Station. Living costs in Melbourne are relatively high: average rent for a shared apartment is A$200–A$300 per week, groceries A$80–$100, and a monthly transport pass about A$170. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers operate in Victoria alone, giving students ample choice. This central location provides easy access to libraries, cafes, and cultural attractions.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Unison Education and Training, meet genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, demonstrate financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and hold adequate health insurance (OSHC). Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited during breaks. Visa processing times vary; apply early. For ELICOS courses, the visa may be granted for the duration of the course plus a short period. Remember that HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice – consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for your specific situation.
Applying for IELTS Preparation at Unison Education and Training involves three simple steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by field, level, and location, and compare options in Melbourne. 2. Apply directly to Unison Education and Training – check entry requirements (including English test scores), submit required documents (academic transcripts, passport copy, English test results), and meet their application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once you accept the offer and pay fees, the provider issues a CoE, which you use to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have valid OSHC and sufficient funds.
Melbourne is a top destination for international students, known for its multicultural atmosphere, world-class universities, and vibrant arts scene. With over 40 universities and colleges in the city, you'll join a diverse student community. The cost of living is higher than in regional areas – budget around A$500 per week for basic expenses – but part-time work opportunities are plentiful. Public transport is efficient, and the city is safe. However, if you prefer a quieter environment or lower costs, consider studying in a regional city like Geelong or Wollongong. This IELTS Preparation course at Unison Education and Training is perfect for students who need focused test preparation in a central location. Think about your lifestyle preferences, budget, and study goals before deciding.
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IELTS Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at Unison Education and Training 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.