English Course Blog & Melbourne Life Guides

Practical guides from Clinton English, a CRICOS approved English school in Melbourne CBD. Real advice on Working Holiday Visa life, English for jobs, IELTS and EAP preparation, course costs and settling into Melbourne as an international student.

57in-depth guides
4CRICOS English courses
Level 3NEAS quality endorsed
MelbourneCBD campus
Melbourne Life Melbourne Life ⏱ 9 min
📅 22 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

Cost of Living in Melbourne for International Students 2026

A realistic 2026 cost of living breakdown for international students in Melbourne: rent, food, transport, fees, and weekly budgets, with a table you can plan around.

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IELTS & EAP IELTS & EAP ⏱ 9 min
📅 22 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

How Long Does It Take to Reach B2 English?

An honest answer on how long it takes to reach B2 English: what actually determines the timeline, why months matter more than hours, and how to choose the right course...

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IELTS & EAP IELTS & EAP ⏱ 9 min
📅 22 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

IELTS Academic vs General Training: Which Do You Need?

A clear comparison of IELTS Academic and General Training: what differs, which one universities and visa purposes require, and how to choose before you book your test.

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Melbourne Life Melbourne Life ⏱ 8 min
📅 22 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

Melbourne Weather Guide for International Students 2026

Melbourne weather explained for newcomers: the four seasons in real terms, what to pack, why 'changeable' is normal, and how to dress for work and study year round.

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Melbourne Life Melbourne Life ⏱ 8 min
📅 22 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

Melbourne Weekend Guide for International Students

A realistic Melbourne weekend guide for international students: free things to do, how to meet people, what's worth paying for, and how to make the most of two days in...

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Which English School Is Best for WHV Holders in Melbourne? Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 6 min
📅 21 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

Which English School Is Best for WHV Holders in Melbourne?

Not all English schools are designed for Working Holiday Visa holders. This guide walks through what to look for — morning classes, WHV-friendly policies, Melbourne...

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What Jobs Pay the Most for WHV Holders in Melbourne? English for Jobs ⏱ 8 min
📅 21 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

What Jobs Pay the Most for WHV Holders in Melbourne?

From construction and trade assistant work to skilled barista and commercial cooking roles — a realistic guide to the highest-paying jobs for Working Holiday Visa...

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Where Can I Meet International Students in Melbourne? Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 8 min
📅 21 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

Where Can I Meet International Students in Melbourne?

Melbourne has one of the world's most diverse international student populations. Here are the proven places and strategies to meet other international students — build...

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Can I Study English and Work at the Same Time on a WHV? English for Jobs ⏱ 6 min
📅 21 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

Can I Study English and Work at the Same Time on a WHV?

Yes — and it is one of the smartest things a WHV holder can do. A morning English course and afternoon work schedule is common, legal, and financially practical in...

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What Should I Do After Work in Melbourne? | WHV Life Guide English for Jobs ⏱ 10 min
📅 21 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

What Should I Do After Work in Melbourne? | WHV Life Guide

From rooftop bars and live music in Fitzroy to dawn swims at St Kilda beach — the best free and low-cost after-work activities for Working Holiday Visa holders...

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English for Jobs English for Jobs ⏱ 12 min
📅 8 October 2026 · Emma Clinton

How to Network in Melbourne as a WHV Holder

Networking on a Working Holiday Visa in Melbourne is not about business cards — it is about genuine human connection. Here is how WHV holders can build a professional...

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Visitor Visa & Short Stay Visitor Visa & Short Stay ⏱ 7 min
📅 23 September 2026 · Emma Clinton

Which English Course Is Best for Short-Term Visitors in Melbourne?

Short on time in Melbourne? Compare the best English courses for short-term visitors — General English, IELTS prep, and Cambridge options. Find what fits a 2–6 week...

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Course Guides & Costs Course Guides & Costs ⏱ 7 min
📅 23 September 2026 · Emma Clinton

Can I Improve My English in One Month?

Can you actually improve your English in just one month? A realistic look at what 4 weeks of intensive English study in Melbourne can and cannot do for you.

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Visitor Visa & Short Stay Visitor Visa & Short Stay ⏱ 8 min
📅 23 September 2026 · Emma Clinton

Can I Study English on a Visitor Visa in Australia?

Wondering if you can study English on a tourist visa in Australia? Learn what the rules actually say, what is permitted, and the best options for short-term English...

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Course Guides & Costs Course Guides & Costs ⏱ 7 min
📅 23 September 2026 · Emma Clinton

How Long Can I Study English in Australia?

How long can you study English in Australia on different visas? A clear guide to visa limits, Student Visa course durations, and short-term study options for visitors.

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Course Guides & Costs Course Guides & Costs ⏱ 6 min
📅 23 September 2026 · Emma Clinton

How Much Does an English Course Cost in Melbourne?

A clear, honest breakdown of English course costs in Melbourne for 2026. Compare General English, IELTS, and Cambridge course fees at Clinton English and across...

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English for Jobs English for Jobs ⏱ 8 min
📅 22 September 2026 · Emma Clinton

What Should I Do After Work in Melbourne?

The best free and cheap things to do after work in Melbourne — from sunset spots and riverside walks to live music, food markets, and hidden neighbourhood gems.

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English for Jobs English for Jobs ⏱ 8 min
📅 22 September 2026 · Emma Clinton

What Jobs Pay the Most for WHV Holders in Melbourne?

Discover the highest-paying jobs for Working Holiday Visa holders in Melbourne. From hospitality to healthcare, learn which industries pay best and how to land these...

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Visitor Visa & Short Stay Visitor Visa & Short Stay ⏱ 10 min
📅 17 September 2026 · Emma Clinton

What Should I Do While Visiting Melbourne?

Melbourne has so much to offer visitors — from free gallery nights to laneway cafes, sports events, and coastal day trips. Here's your guide to making the most of...

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Study English and Work on Your WHV in Melbourne — Can You Do Both? English for Jobs ⏱ 10 min
📅 15 September 2026 · Emma Clinton

Study English and Work on Your WHV in Melbourne — Can You Do Both?

Yes, you can study English and work at the same time on your Working Holiday Visa in Australia. Here's exactly how it works, what the rules are, and how to organise...

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English for Jobs English for Jobs ⏱ 10 min
📅 20 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

What Should I Do After Work in Melbourne? WHV Holder's Guide

The best after-work activities for Working Holiday Visa holders in Melbourne — free events, cheap eats, rooftop bars, night markets, fitness classes, live music, and...

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English for Jobs English for Jobs ⏱ 8 min
📅 20 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

What Jobs Pay the Most for Working Holiday Visa Holders in Melbourne?

Discover the highest-paying jobs for Working Holiday Visa holders in Melbourne. From hospitality to healthcare support — maximise your Australian work experience with...

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ELICOS vs IELTS vs General English Course: Which Do You Need? IELTS & EAP ⏱ 16 min
📅 10 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

ELICOS vs IELTS vs General English Course: Which Do You Need?

ELICOS, IELTS Preparation, General English, EAP and Cambridge CAE explained: what each course is for, who it suits and how to choose the right one in Melbourne.

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Is Melbourne Safe for International Students? A 2026 Guide Melbourne Life ⏱ 18 min
📅 10 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Is Melbourne Safe for International Students? A 2026 Guide

A practical 2026 safety guide for international students in Melbourne: suburbs to watch, night transport, scams, emergency numbers and habits that reduce risk.

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Melbourne Public Transport Guide for International Students Melbourne Life ⏱ 16 min
📅 10 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Melbourne Public Transport Guide for International Students

Trams, trains, Myki cards and zones: how Melbourne public transport works for international students, with fares, tips and safety advice.

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Part-Time vs Full-Time English Courses in Melbourne Course Guides & Costs ⏱ 15 min
📅 10 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Part-Time vs Full-Time English Courses in Melbourne

Full-time or part-time ELICOS in Melbourne? Compare study load, hours, cost, visa considerations and work flexibility to choose the schedule that suits your life.

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Renting a Share House in Melbourne as an International Student Melbourne Life ⏱ 16 min
📅 10 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Renting a Share House in Melbourne as an International Student

How to find, vet and sign a share house lease in Melbourne as an international student: bonds, scams, rental rights and what to check before you pay.

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Highest Paying Jobs for WHV Holders in Melbourne English for Jobs ⏱ 8 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Highest Paying Jobs for WHV Holders in Melbourne

Discover the highest paying jobs for Working Holiday Visa holders in Melbourne 2026. Top industries, salary ranges, and tips to maximise your earnings.

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How to Study English and Work in Australia on a WHV English for Jobs ⏱ 8 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

How to Study English and Work in Australia on a WHV

Balance English study and work on your Working Holiday Visa in Australia. Find the best courses, work rights, and tips for WHV holders in Melbourne.

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Things to Do After Work in Melbourne as a WHV Holder English for Jobs ⏱ 12 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Things to Do After Work in Melbourne as a WHV Holder

Make the most of your evenings in Melbourne as a Working Holiday Visa holder. From laneway bars to Yarra River walks — discover the best after-work activities.

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Budget Living in Melbourne on a WHV — Real Costs 2026 Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 7 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Budget Living in Melbourne on a WHV — Real Costs 2026

Realistic budget guide for Working Holiday Visa holders living in Melbourne in 2026 — rent, transport, food, phone, and how to stretch your WHV savings.

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Best Suburbs for Working Holiday Visa Holders in Melbourne Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 8 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Best Suburbs for Working Holiday Visa Holders in Melbourne

Best suburbs for Working Holiday Visa holders in Melbourne. Honest guide to Richmond, Footscray, Dandenong, Collingwood, and Carlton — rent, transport, job access, and...

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Can I Study English for Only 4 Weeks in Melbourne? Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 7 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Can I Study English for Only 4 Weeks in Melbourne?

Can I study English for only 4 weeks in Melbourne? Honest answer on what 4 weeks of English study can and can't do — timeframes, costs, outcomes, and who it actually...

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What English Do I Need for an Office Job in Melbourne? English for Jobs ⏱ 7 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

What English Do I Need for an Office Job in Melbourne?

What English do I need for an office job in Melbourne? Honest breakdown of reading, writing, speaking, and listening requirements for admin, reception, and office...

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Australian Slang Every WHV Holder Needs to Know English for Jobs ⏱ 6 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Australian Slang Every WHV Holder Needs to Know

Australian slang every Working Holiday Visa holder needs to know. Practical guide to the words and phrases that will help you understand colleagues, flatmates, and...

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WHV English Myths vs Facts: What Actually Helps Your Visa Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 8 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

WHV English Myths vs Facts: What Actually Helps Your Visa

WHV English myths vs facts: what actually helps your Working Holiday Visa, what doesn't, and the honest truth about English requirements, study, and Australian visa...

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Partner Visa & New Migrants Partner Visa & New Migrants ⏱ 7 min
📅 4 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

How Do I Prepare for Job Interviews in Melbourne?

How do I prepare for job interviews in Melbourne? Common questions, Australian interview style, STAR method, body language, and post-interview follow-up tips.

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Conversational English vs Workplace English — What's the Difference? English for Jobs ⏱ 7 min
📅 3 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Conversational English vs Workplace English — What's the Difference?

Conversational English vs Workplace English — What

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Can I Get an Office Job on a Working Holiday Visa in Melbourne? English for Jobs ⏱ 8 min
📅 3 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Can I Get an Office Job on a Working Holiday Visa in Melbourne?

Can you work in an office on a Working Holiday Visa in Australia? Learn the WHV work restrictions, English requirements for office jobs, and how to build your way into...

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How to Get a Job in Melbourne with Limited English English for Jobs ⏱ 8 min
📅 3 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

How to Get a Job in Melbourne with Limited English

How can you get a job in Melbourne with limited English? Practical strategies for WHV holders and migrants to find employment, build experience, and improve English at...

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How to Improve Your English While Working in Australia Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 7 min
📅 3 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

How to Improve Your English While Working in Australia

How do you improve your English while working in Australia on a Working Holiday Visa? Practical daily strategies to accelerate your English fluency using your job as a...

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How to Make Australian Friends in Melbourne Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 7 min
📅 3 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

How to Make Australian Friends in Melbourne

How do you make Australian friends in Melbourne? Practical strategies for WHV holders to build genuine friendships with Australians and other international students in...

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Is It Worth Studying English on a Working Holiday Visa? Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 8 min
📅 3 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Is It Worth Studying English on a Working Holiday Visa?

Is it worth studying English on a Working Holiday Visa in Australia? The honest financial and career analysis — whether WHV holders should invest in English courses or...

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What English Level Do I Need to Work in a Café in Melbourne? English for Jobs ⏱ 7 min
📅 3 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

What English Level Do I Need to Work in a Café in Melbourne?

What English level do I need to work in a café in Melbourne? Honest breakdown of café roles, English requirements, and how to get your first café job with limited...

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Where Can I Improve My English Near Melbourne CBD? Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 6 min
📅 3 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Where Can I Improve My English Near Melbourne CBD?

Where can I improve my English near Melbourne CBD? Free and low-cost resources within 5km of the city — libraries, conversation groups, language exchanges, courses...

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English for Jobs English for Jobs ⏱ 8 min
📅 3 August 2026 · Emma Clinton

Hospitality English for Working Holiday Visa Holders in Melbourne

Working in Melbourne hospitality on a WHV? Learn exact English phrases, café interview questions, Australian slang and workplace culture you need to land and keep the...

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English for Academic Purposes (EAP) in Melbourne: Your Complete University Pathway Guide for 2026 IELTS & EAP ⏱ 10 min
📅 31 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

English for Academic Purposes (EAP) in Melbourne: Your Complete University Pathway Guide for 2026

The complete guide to EAP courses in Melbourne. How EAP compares to IELTS, what university pathways are available, and how to choose the right course.

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How to Choose the Best IELTS Preparation Course in Melbourne in 2026 IELTS & EAP ⏱ 10 min
📅 31 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

How to Choose the Best IELTS Preparation Course in Melbourne in 2026

Expert guide to choosing an IELTS preparation course in Melbourne. Learn what separates a genuine IELTS course from one that wastes your time and money.

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Can I Get a Job in Melbourne with Basic English? English for Jobs ⏱ 14 min
📅 29 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

Can I Get a Job in Melbourne with Basic English?

Yes — you can get a job in Melbourne with basic English. This guide covers realistic job options for beginner-intermediate speakers and how Clinton English's Job Hub...

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English Conversation Classes in Melbourne CBD Course Guides & Costs ⏱ 6 min
📅 29 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

English Conversation Classes in Melbourne CBD

How do you make Australian friends in Melbourne? Practical strategies for WHV holders to build genuine friendships with Australians and other international students in...

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Which English School Helps You Get a Job in Melbourne? English for Jobs ⏱ 12 min
📅 29 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

Which English School Helps You Get a Job in Melbourne?

Compare English schools in Melbourne for job readiness. Learn the 5 things that actually matter — job placement, CRICOS registration, workplace English, industry...

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A Guide to English Course Costs in Melbourne for Working Holiday Visa Holders Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 7 min
📅 29 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

A Guide to English Course Costs in Melbourne for Working Holiday Visa Holders

How do you make Australian friends in Melbourne? Practical strategies for WHV holders to build genuine friendships with Australians and other international students in...

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Best English School in Melbourne for Working Holiday Visa Holders Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 6 min
📅 29 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

Best English School in Melbourne for Working Holiday Visa Holders

How do you make Australian friends in Melbourne? Practical strategies for WHV holders to build genuine friendships with Australians and other international students in...

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WHV English Survival Guide: Your First 30 Days in Melbourne Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 10 min
📅 29 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

WHV English Survival Guide: Your First 30 Days in Melbourne

Your first 30 days on a Working Holiday Visa in Melbourne: essential English for banking, SIM cards, transport,租房 and making Australian friends. Practical phrases...

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How to Improve English While Working in Australia Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 7 min
📅 29 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

How to Improve English While Working in Australia

How do you make Australian friends in Melbourne? Practical strategies for WHV holders to build genuine friendships with Australians and other international students in...

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Best Melbourne Suburbs for Working Holiday Visa Holders Working Holiday Visa ⏱ 6 min
📅 29 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

Best Melbourne Suburbs for Working Holiday Visa Holders

How do you make Australian friends in Melbourne? Practical strategies for WHV holders to build genuine friendships with Australians and other international students in...

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How to Write a Resume and Pass a Job Interview in Australia — A Practical Guide for Basic English Speakers English for Jobs ⏱ 7 min
📅 29 July 2026 · Emma Clinton

How to Write a Resume and Pass a Job Interview in Australia — A Practical Guide for Basic English Speakers

Practical guide for basic English speakers on writing an Australian resume and passing job interviews in Melbourne. Learn STAR method, format tips, and what employers...

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Frequently asked questions

Can international students study English on a Working Holiday Visa?

Yes. Working Holiday Visa holders can enrol in a CRICOS eligible English course such as General English or IELTS Preparation at Clinton English in Melbourne CBD. A Student Visa is required for courses longer than four weeks, so check the visa conditions that apply to your situation before enrolling.

Which English course do I need for jobs in Melbourne?

For work in hospitality, retail and the service industry, General English at level B1 to B2 covers workplace communication. For office and professional roles, English for Academic Purposes or IELTS Preparation targets the accuracy and formality employers expect.

Does Clinton English offer IELTS Preparation courses?

Yes. Clinton English is a CRICOS approved provider (03895J) and offers IELTS Preparation, General English, English for Academic Purposes and Cambridge CAE Preparation on a weekly basis in Melbourne CBD.

Where do I find cheap things to do in Melbourne after work?

Our after-work guides cover free and low cost options such as laneway street art, the Royal Botanic Gardens, St Kilda Pier, Yarra River walks and sunset markets, plus how to meet other international students in Melbourne.

Clinton English logo

Written by Emma Clinton

English Language Teacher at Clinton English, Melbourne CBD. Emma teaches General English, IELTS Preparation and English for Academic Purposes to international students and Working Holiday Visa holders.

CRICOS Provider 03895J • NEAS Quality Endorsed • Melbourne CBD campus

Ready to improve your English in Melbourne?

Book a free placement test and get a study plan built around your goals, your visa and your schedule. Walk into our Little Lonsdale Street campus or book online.

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