Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 114724E) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification, corresponding to AQF Level 5, is designed for those who want to work in early childhood education settings such as preschools, childcare centres, and family day care. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03870G), it meets the Australian Government's standards for international students. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. Whether you're a prospective international student or a migrant planning to study in Australia, this page provides a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision. Remember, studying in Australia offers more than 26,000 courses across 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers, and the ESOS Act protects your rights as an overseas student.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 114724E) is a Diploma-level program (AQF Level 5) offered by Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03870G). The course is classified under Field of Education 07 - Education, specifically 070101 Teacher Education: Early Childhood. It has a VET national code of CHC50121. This qualification prepares graduates to design, implement, and evaluate early childhood programs that promote children's development. With a duration of 78 weeks, it includes both theoretical study and practical work experience. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of many options for those pursuing a career in early childhood education.
This diploma falls under the broad field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, typical learning outcomes for this level include understanding child development from birth to school age, designing and implementing play-based learning activities, building partnerships with families and communities, and complying with legal and ethical frameworks. Students learn to foster inclusive environments that respect diversity and promote well-being. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring graduates are ready for roles such as early childhood educator, centre coordinator, or family day care provider. At AQF Level 5, the diploma also develops analytical and communication skills essential for supervisory roles. For a detailed syllabus, always refer to the provider's course handbook.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is scheduled over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks), as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program). The course is likely to be offered in a full-time mode, typical for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500). The duration includes both taught sessions and the work component. As a full-time program, students should expect approximately 20 contact hours per week, plus self-study. Always confirm the exact mode and timetable with Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd during the application process.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is A$25,000 for the entire course, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$26,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's official website. Living costs in Melbourne, where this course is delivered, are typically around A$1,500–A$2,500 per month, including rent, groceries, and transport. As a guide, the Australian Government recommends international students budget at least A$21,041 per year for living expenses (2026 rates). OSHC costs vary but are mandatory for student visa holders.
International applicants typically require an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) to demonstrate English proficiency. Additionally, applicants are expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some providers may require a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet the direct entry requirements. Always check with Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd for specific entry criteria, as they may have additional prerequisites such as a Working with Children Check or literacy and numeracy assessment. Note that meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee a place; the provider makes the final decision.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks, with 20 hours per week (approximately 280 total hours). This is a work-integrated learning opportunity, typically an industry placement in an early childhood education setting such as a childcare centre or kindergarten. During this placement, students gain practical experience under supervision, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. It is an integral part of the qualification and counts towards the total course hours. The provider will arrange the placement or assist in finding suitable host organisations. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for such placements; the Student visa (Subclass 500) permits work-integrated learning that is a compulsory part of the course.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at Level 10, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Victoria's capital city and a major education hub with over 100,000 international students. The city offers excellent public transport, with Flinders Street station just steps away. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, and a Myki monthly pass about A$100. There are numerous CRICOS-registered providers in Melbourne, giving students plenty of options. The central location provides access to libraries, cafes, and cultural activities. When choosing a study destination, consider your lifestyle preferences and budget.
International students enrolling in this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, and financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions also require maintaining OSHC for the duration of stay. The GTE criterion assesses your intention to stay temporarily. It is advisable to consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers:** Use HeadStart Academy's free resource to filter by course level, field (Education), and city (Melbourne). Confirm the CRICOS course code 114724E and provider 03870G are current. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution:** Visit Australian Scholar's College website to review specific entry requirements, English test scores needed, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and other documents as requested. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500):** Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online, pay the visa fee, arrange OSHC, and demonstrate financial capacity. Seek visa advice from a registered migration agent if needed.
Melbourne is a vibrant, multicultural city with a strong demand for qualified early childhood educators. However, before enrolling, consider the following: living costs are higher than regional areas but manageable with a part-time job (student visa allows 48 hrs/fortnight). The weather is variable, so pack accordingly. Public transport is extensive, but a car may be useful for placements in suburban centres. The early childhood sector in Victoria is regulated by the Department of Education and Training, and graduates may need to register with relevant bodies. Also, factor in the time commitment: 78 weeks of study plus placement hours. Research job prospects in your home country if you plan to return. Finally, ensure the provider's campus is accessible from your accommodation.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd's official website for current fees and to begin your application.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Scholar's 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.