Free English language courses for migrants

Improving your English can lead to a better job, new friends, further study and help you to become part of your neighbourhood.

AMES Victoria has helped over 500,000 people learn how to read, write, speak and understand the English language through the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP). We make our English courses fun and interesting and offer a range of options to make learning English easier for you.

AMES offers:

• Learning at a time and place that suits you, even in your own home
• A classroom close to you
• Preparation for further education at Universities and TAFEs
• Free child care while you are in class
• An experienced and friendly teacher who will help you realise your individual goals

What is the AMEP?

The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is a government funded program that provides 510 hours of English classes to new migrants and refugees. The AMEP will teach you how to read, write, speak and understand English.

In the AMEP, you can study English at four different levels, from Beginner to Advanced. After completing each level, we will give you a Certificate in Spoken and Written English (CSWE) to mark your achievement.

Can I attend?

The AMEP is free to eligible participants, thanks to funding and support from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). Even if you are not eligible for free AMEP classes, you can still attend our classes for a small fee.

 Find out if you qualify to learn English for free with the AMEP .

How to enrol

Contact AMES -Telephone or visit your local AMES centre and provide your visa number and personal details.

Determine Eligibility - One of our friendly staff members will determine your eligibility and let you know any costs that may be involved in the course.

Attend Interview - We will interview you to assess your English language skills so we can place you with other people who are at a similar level.

Get Information - We will give you information about when you can begin English classes and your rights as an AMEP student.

Decide - You choose how you want to study the AMEP; in class, at home or on our computers in the Independent Learning Centre.

AMEP Partners

Holmesglen Institute of TAFE
Swinburne University
Victoria University
Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE

The YWCA and the Free Kindergarten Association of Victoria provide childcare.