Are you ready to start your study journey in Melbourne – Australia’s best student city?
Whether you’re applying through an education provider or an agent, this guide will walk you through all the steps and key considerations.
Start by exploring and comparing your study options to learn about course offerings in Victoria.
The Study Melbourne Course Finder is a handy tool that helps you search and compare courses and scholarships across different institutions and providers in Melbourne and Victoria. Find courses that align with your interests, career goals, and preferred study pathways.
Every listed course on the Study Melbourne Course Finder is CRICOS-approved, so you can confidently make your choice knowing the courses meet Australia’s required standards for international students.
What is CRICOS?
CRICOS, which stands for the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, ensures that education providers meet the high standards set by the Australian Government. This is important because enrolling in a CRICOS-approved course is a requirement for obtaining a student visa and guarantees that you’ll receive a world-class education in Australia.
How to use the Study Melbourne Course Finder
- Search: Start by searching for courses based on your career, course area, institution, or even scholarships.
- Filter: Refine your search results by selecting what, where and how you want to study.
- Compare: Compare courses, institutions and study options to find what suits you best.
- Enquire: Once you've narrowed down your options, send an enquiry directly to institutions for more details and personalised advice.
Before you can enrol, it’s important to know the key requirements for your course:
- Entry Requirements: Some programs, like engineering or science, may require prior study in subjects such as mathematics or chemistry.
- Higher Degrees: Advanced degrees may require an undergraduate qualification.
- Credit for prior learning: You may be eligible for exemptions or credits based on past learning or life experience—check your course requirements carefully.
English Language proficiency requirements
To study in Australia, international students must meet specific English language proficiency standards to obtain a student visa:
- You’ll need to take an approved English Language Test to assess your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
- The Home Affairs Department accepts test scores from the following tests that are undertaken at a secure test centre:
- Cambridge C1 Advanced Test (C1 Advanced)
- Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General (CELPIP General)
- International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic), including One Skill Retake (OSR)
- International English Language Testing System General Training (IELTS General Training), including One Skill Retake (OSR)
- LANGUAGECERT Academic Test (LANGUAGECERT Academic)
- Michigan English Test (MET), including Single Section Retake (SSR)
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
- Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT)
Alternative study pathways
If you don’t meet the English language requirements:
- Enrol in an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) program offered by an Australian education provider.
- These courses help you achieve the required English language proficiency and often provide direct entry pathways to your chosen institution—no need for additional language tests.
If you don’t yet meet the academic entry requirements (such as minimum GPA or prerequisite subjects):
- Start with a Diploma or Certificate program to build your foundational knowledge and skills.
- These qualifications allow you to transition to higher-level courses, such as progressing from a Diploma of Business to a Bachelor of Business degree.
Fast-track your graduation
Check if your institution allows you to transfer credits earned through pathway programs towards your degree, which could help you graduate faster.
Once you’re confident you meet the requirements, you can begin the enrolment process. There are two main ways to enrol:
Option 1: Apply directly with the institution
- Visit the education provider’s official website.
- Use their dedicated application portal.
- Seek help from their enrolment staff for guidance through the process
Option 2: Apply with a registered Education Agent
- Check if the agent is a Qualified Education Agent Counsellor (QEAC) using the online QEAC database.
- Agents can simplify the enrolment process and ensure your application meets all of the requirements.
- In some cases, your institution may require you to use an agent to enrol.
Embarking on your study journey in Melbourne is an exciting opportunity! This guide has highlighted key steps to help you get started with enrolling in a course that suits your goals.
Remember to:
- Confirm your course prerequisites and eligibility for credits.
- Improve your English skills, if required, through an ELICOS program.
- Explore pathway courses if you don’t yet meet the academic entry requirements.
- Use resources like the Study Melbourne Course Finder to find and compare courses.
- Verify that your course and institution are CRICOS-approved for your student visa.
With all the right steps in place, you’ll soon be on your way to enjoying a world-class education and life in Melbourne, Australia’s best student city!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What documents do I need to apply for a course?
Most institutions require proof of identity (passport), academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g. IELTS or TOEFL), and any supporting documents, such as a portfolio or references, depending on the course requirements.
It’s best to check your chosen institution’s specific requirements.
How can I check the eligibility requirements for courses?
Each institution and course has different eligibility criteria. Use the Study Melbourne Course Finder to research available courses and review specific academic, English language, and other prerequisites listed for each program.
How do I know if I meet the English language requirements?
Your chosen institution will provide the minimum English language proficiency score required. If your score is below the requirement, you can improve your language skills by enrolling in an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS). Some ELICOS programs also offer direct entry pathways without further testing.
What happens if I don’t meet the academic requirements for a course?
If you don’t meet the entry requirements, there are other options available. You can start with a lower-level course, such as a certificate or diploma program, to gain the knowledge and skills needed to progress to your desired qualification.
What should I do after I receive my offer letter?
After receiving your offer, follow the instructions provided by your institution. This usually involves accepting the offer, paying any required fees and applying for a Student Visa to commence your studies in Victoria.
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