Complete Guide to CRICOS Courses in Australia
Australia is one of the most popular destinations in the world for international students. Thousands of people come to the country every year to study English, vocational programs, or university degrees. If you plan to study in Australia, you will encounter the term CRICOS courses.
CRICOS courses are the programs that international students must enroll in when applying for an Australian student visa. These courses are officially registered and approved by the Australian government.
Understanding how CRICOS courses work will help you choose the right study program, verify education providers, and avoid mistakes when planning your studies in Australia.
This guide explains what CRICOS courses are, how they differ from other programs, and how international students can find and choose the right course.
What Are CRICOS Courses
CRICOS courses are programs listed in the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
The CRICOS register is the official database of Australian education providers and courses approved to teach international students.
If a course is listed in CRICOS, it means:
- the education provider is approved to teach overseas students
- the program meets Australian education standards
- the course can be used for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) application
Each approved course receives a unique CRICOS course code, which is used in official documents and student visa applications.
Without CRICOS registration, a course cannot legally enroll international students studying on a visa.
Why CRICOS Courses Are Important
CRICOS courses play an essential role in Australia’s international education system.
They ensure that international students study in legitimate programs that meet government standards.
Visa eligibility
International students must enroll in a CRICOS-approved course to obtain an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500).
Once accepted into a course, the education provider issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This document includes the CRICOS code and confirms the student’s place in the program.
Education quality assurance
CRICOS courses must comply with national education standards and regulations.
Education providers must demonstrate that their programs deliver quality education and accurate information to students.
Protection for international students
Australia has strong protections for international students studying in CRICOS programs.
If an education provider closes or fails to deliver a course, government protection systems help students transfer to another provider or receive a refund.
This protection is part of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) framework.
Types of CRICOS Courses in Australia
International students can choose from several different types of CRICOS courses depending on their goals.
English Language Courses (ELICOS)
Many students start their education journey with English language training.
These programs are known as ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) and focus on improving English skills before entering vocational or university programs.
English courses can range from a few weeks to a year depending on the student’s level.
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
VET courses focus on practical skills and career-oriented training.
They are popular among international students who want to develop professional skills in industries such as:
- business and management
- hospitality
- information technology
- marketing
- childcare and community services
Most vocational programs last between 6 months and 2 years.
Example of a CRICOS vocational course:
Diploma of Information Technology – TAFE Queensland
Duration: 52 weeks
Higher Education Degrees
Australian universities offer CRICOS-registered bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
These programs provide academic qualifications and typically require longer study periods.
Examples include:
Bachelor of Business – University of Canberra
Duration: approximately 3 years
Master of Information Technology – various Australian universities
Foundation and Pathway Programs
Foundation courses help international students meet university entry requirements.
These programs usually combine English training with academic preparation.
Students who complete a foundation course may then progress to a bachelor’s degree.
Examples of CRICOS Courses
Below are examples of real CRICOS courses offered by Australian institutions.
| Course | Institution | Duration |
| Diploma of Information Technology | TAFE Queensland | 52 weeks |
| Bachelor of Business | University of Canberra | 156 weeks |
| Certificate IV in Hospitality | William Angliss Institute | 40 weeks |
| Diploma of Leadership and Management | Various VET providers | 52 weeks |
These programs demonstrate the variety of courses available to international students in Australia.
How Long Do CRICOS Courses Last
The duration of CRICOS courses varies depending on the type of program.
Typical durations include:
| Course type | Typical duration |
| English courses | 1–12 months |
| Vocational programs | 6 months – 2 years |
| Bachelor’s degrees | 3–4 years |
| Master’s degrees | 1–2 years |
The official course duration is listed in the CRICOS register and determines the length of the student visa.
How to Find CRICOS Courses in Australia
International students can search for CRICOS courses using the official register.
The process usually involves several steps.
Search the CRICOS database
Students can search by:
- course name
- education provider
- study location
The register shows course details, duration, and the CRICOS code.
Compare education providers
Once you find suitable programs, compare institutions based on:
- course reputation
- tuition fees
- study location
- graduate outcomes
Different providers may offer similar programs with different prices and schedules.
Check visa requirements
Students should confirm that the course meets the requirements for an Australian student visa.
CRICOS registration ensures the course is approved for international students.
Cost of CRICOS Courses in Australia
Tuition fees for CRICOS courses vary widely depending on the type of program and institution.
Typical tuition ranges include:
| Course type | Estimated tuition |
| English courses | AUD 250–400 per week |
| Vocational courses | AUD 4,000–15,000 per year |
| University degrees | AUD 20,000–45,000 per year |
Students should also budget for additional expenses such as:
- student visa fees
- health insurance (OSHC)
- accommodation
- living costs
Financial capacity is an important requirement for obtaining an Australian student visa.
CRICOS Courses vs Non-CRICOS Courses
Not all courses offered in Australia are registered in CRICOS.
Some programs are designed only for domestic students.
| Feature | CRICOS course | Non-CRICOS course |
| Student visa eligibility | Yes | No |
| International students | Allowed | Usually not allowed |
| Government regulation | Required | Limited |
| Confirmation of Enrolment | Provided | Not available |
International students must always choose CRICOS-approved courses if they plan to study on a student visa.
How to Choose the Right CRICOS Course
Choosing the right course requires careful planning.
Students should consider several important factors.
Career goals
Select a course that supports your future career plans.
Vocational programs focus on practical job skills, while university degrees offer broader academic opportunities.
Course duration
Some students prefer shorter courses that allow them to enter the workforce quickly.
Others may choose longer programs that provide advanced qualifications.
Education provider reputation
Research the institution offering the course.
Important factors include:
- student reviews
- industry connections
- graduate employment outcomes
Study location
Australia offers many student-friendly cities, including:
Each city offers different lifestyle and cost-of-living conditions.
Final Thoughts
CRICOS courses are the foundation of Australia’s international education system. They ensure that international students study in approved programs that meet national standards and visa requirements.
Before enrolling in a course, students should always verify that the program appears in the CRICOS register. This helps ensure that the course is legitimate and eligible for student visa applications.
By understanding how CRICOS courses work, international students can make better decisions, compare programs more effectively, and plan a successful study experience in Australia.
FAQ
What are CRICOS courses?
CRICOS courses are education programs listed in the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. These courses are approved for international students studying in Australia.
Do international students need a CRICOS course?
Yes. International students must enroll in a CRICOS-approved course to apply for an Australian student visa.
What is a CRICOS course code?
A CRICOS course code is a unique identifier assigned to every approved course in the CRICOS register.
Can international students study non-CRICOS courses?
Generally no. Most non-CRICOS courses are designed for domestic students and are not eligible for student visa applications.
How can I find CRICOS courses?
Students can search the official CRICOS register using the course name, education provider, or study location.