IELTS Preparation (CRICOS course code 117984E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The Academy of Business and Management Australia Pty Ltd over 36 weeks (~8 months). This ELICOS course, classified under Field of Education 091501 – Language and Literature, is designed to equip international students with the English language skills needed to achieve their target IELTS band score for further study, migration, or employment. As a CRICOS-registered provider (04360K), The Academy of Business and Management Australia Pty Ltd is authorised to enrol overseas students. Australia's robust education framework, governed by the ESOS Act, ensures that all CRICOS courses meet rigorous quality standards. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. This course is delivered at two Melbourne locations: Flemington and the Melbourne CBD, providing flexibility for students. Whether you aim to study at an Australian university or meet visa English requirements, this IELTS Preparation course offers a structured pathway. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, and no referral fees are involved.
As an ELICOS course in the Society and Culture field, IELTS Preparation focuses on developing the four key language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking, with an emphasis on IELTS test strategies and academic English. Students typically engage in practice tests, vocabulary building, grammar revision, and exam technique workshops. The curriculum is designed to improve overall English proficiency while targeting the specific requirements of the IELTS Academic or General Training modules. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, graduates of this level are expected to demonstrate the ability to understand complex texts, express ideas coherently in writing, and communicate fluently in spoken English. This course is ideal for students who need to meet English entry requirements for diploma, bachelor, or postgraduate programs, or for those seeking to demonstrate English competence for skilled migration. It is important to note that this is a Non AQF Award, meaning it does not lead to a formal qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework, but it is widely recognised by institutions and employers.
The IELTS Preparation course runs for 36 weeks, approximately 8 months, as recorded on the CRICOS register. This duration allows for comprehensive skill development and ample practice. The language of instruction is English, and classes are conducted on campus at the provider's locations in Melbourne. This is a single qualification course, not a dual award or part of a package. Students should be prepared for full-time study commitment, typically involving around 20 hours of face-to-face classes per week, plus self-study. The course schedule may vary, so it's advisable to confirm with The Academy of Business and Management Australia Pty Ltd upon application. The extended duration is beneficial for students who need gradual improvement and consistent exposure to English in an academic setting. Melbourne, as a multicultural city with a large international student population, provides an immersive environment for language learning.
The indicative tuition fee for IELTS Preparation at The Academy of Business and Management Australia Pty Ltd is A$10,500, with non-tuition fees of A$600, totalling an estimated A$11,100. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs that are not included in the estimated total include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current and precise fee information, always refer to the provider's official website. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at approximately A$500–700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport, though this varies by lifestyle. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders and costs around A$600–1,000 per year. The visa application fee for a Student visa (Subclass 500) is currently A$1,600 (as of mid-2026, subject to change). It's crucial to budget for these additional expenses when planning your studies.
Entry requirements for IELTS Preparation are set by The Academy of Business and Management Australia Pty Ltd and may vary. Generally, international students need to demonstrate English proficiency at an intermediate level or above, typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall or equivalent, though this course is designed to improve scores, so a lower starting level may be accepted. Prior educational qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 10 or higher are usually expected. Some providers may require a placement test. This course does not lead to a foundation studies program; it is a standalone English preparation course. For specific entry criteria, including accepted English tests and minimum scores, contact the provider directly. All CRICOS-registered providers must ensure students meet genuine student requirements under the ESOS framework. It's advisable to prepare your academic transcripts and English test results when applying.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake work placements or internships as part of their IELTS Preparation program. However, student visa holders (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. While the course itself does not include work, students may seek part-time employment in Melbourne to gain local experience and supplement living costs. The casual hourly wage in Australia typically ranges from A$20–30, and many international students find work in hospitality, retail, or tutoring. Always ensure that work does not interfere with course attendance and academic progress.
IELTS Preparation is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: 1) 169 - 175 Mount Alexander Road, Flemington, Melbourne VIC 3031; and 2) CBD site - Level 11 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Both campuses are well-connected by public transport. Flemington is a residential suburb with tram and train access to the city, while the CBD campus is in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, near Flinders Street Station. Melbourne is home to hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant international student community, with over 200,000 overseas students. Rent for a one-bedroom flat in Melbourne is typically A$350–500 per week, while inner-city share housing ranges from A$200–350. Groceries and transport add approximately A$150–250 weekly. The city offers diverse cultural experiences, making it an ideal setting for language immersion.
To study this IELTS Preparation course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights as mentioned. Key requirements include satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs uses the GTE to ensure students intend to study in Australia temporarily. Health cover is mandatory; OSHC can be arranged through the provider or independently. Student visa conditions also require satisfactory course attendance and progress. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department's website. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only and does not offer immigration assistance.
Follow this three-step process to secure your place in this course: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Society and Culture), and location (Melbourne) to confirm the right course for your goals. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – Submit your application to The Academy of Business and Management Australia Pty Ltd with required documents: academic transcripts, English test scores (if applicable), passport copy, and any other materials. Check application deadlines and entry requirements on their website. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE, which you need to lodge your visa application. Prepare GTE statement, OSHC, and evidence of finances. For step-by-step visa guidance, see our Student Visa Subclass 500 page.
Melbourne is a top destination for ELICOS students, offering high-quality English programs and a multicultural environment. With over 30 ELICOS providers registered with CRICOS, the city provides diverse options. When choosing an IELTS Preparation course, consider the provider's CRICOS registration (always verify), class sizes, teacher qualifications, and pathway arrangements with Australian universities. The cost of living in Melbourne, while slightly lower than Sydney, still requires careful budgeting. Additionally, think about your long-term goals: this Non AQF Award course is excellent for improving English quickly, but if you need a formal qualification, consider a General English or EAP course instead. Explore the Society and Culture study area in Melbourne for related courses. Remember that ESOS protections apply, so you have rights regarding refunds, complaints, and course changes.
Explore more courses in Society and Culture in Melbourne, or check the provider's profile for full details.
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IELTS Preparation is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Academy of Business and Management Australia 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.