General English (Beginner to Advanced) (1 to 48 weeks) (CRICOS course code 009526G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd over 48 weeks (~11 months). This ELICOS course is designed for international students seeking to improve their English proficiency from beginner to advanced levels. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00040C), Holmes Colleges Sydney offers this course to help students develop communication skills for academic, professional, or everyday purposes. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers and 26,000 courses available internationally, this course is a popular choice for those targeting Sydney's vibrant education landscape.
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General English (Beginner to Advanced) (1 to 48 weeks) (CRICOS 009526G) is a Non AQF Award in the field of Society and Culture, specifically ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). It is offered by Holmes Colleges Sydney Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00040C), a private provider with a strong reputation for English language training. The course runs for 48 weeks (~11 months) and is conducted entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring tuition fees are safeguarded. Sydney, with over 200 CRICOS providers, offers a rich multicultural environment for language learning.
As an ELICOS course, General English covers all language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with emphasis on grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Students progress from beginner to advanced levels, focusing on real-life communication. The course is designed to prepare students for further study, work, or everyday life in English-speaking environments. While specific syllabi are set by Holmes Colleges, typical ELICOS programs include thematic modules such as travel, work, and social interactions. Graduates often achieve sufficient proficiency for entry into vocational or higher education courses requiring English competency.
The course duration is 48 weeks (~11 months) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual or foundation components). Study mode is typically full-time, with classes held at the provider's Sydney campus. Students should plan for 20-25 contact hours per week, plus self-study. The extended duration allows for thorough language acquisition from beginner to advanced levels.
Tuition fees for General English are indicative at A$15,360 for the full 48 weeks, with non-tuition fees of A$500, totalling an estimated A$15,860. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$500-700/week for Sydney), and the student visa application charge (currently A$710). Always confirm current fees directly with Holmes Colleges at www.holmes.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider and course level. For General English at beginner level, no prior English proficiency is required; students are placed based on a pre-test. For advanced levels, higher proficiency may be expected. Typical ELICOS courses have no formal academic entry requirements, but students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria and hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500). Holmes Colleges may require a minimum age (often 18) and evidence of financial capacity. For detailed entry requirements, consult the provider directly.
This course has no mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain part-time work experience in Sydney while studying.
General English (Beginner to Advanced) is delivered at Holmes Secondary College (ELICOS Operations) in Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a diverse student population of over 200,000 international students. The campus is accessible via public transport, with nearby train and bus connections. Sydney's cost of living is higher than other Australian cities, with indicative weekly rent of $300-$500, groceries $80-$120, and transport $30-$50. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene and numerous education providers.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa conditions include maintaining full-time enrolment, adequate OSHC, and meeting GTE requirements. Students may work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays. Financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel must be demonstrated. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a MARA-registered migration agent for visa advice and visiting the Department of Home Affairs website.
Sydney offers a dynamic environment for international students, with a strong job market and numerous cultural attractions. However, the high cost of living and competitive housing market require careful financial planning. Students considering General English should assess their budget and lifestyle preferences. Sydney's multicultural society provides ample opportunities to practice English daily. HeadStart Academy helps you compare providers and courses to find the best fit.
Follow these three steps to enrol in General English at Holmes Colleges Sydney: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level, field, and city (e.g., ELICOS in Sydney) using resources like HeadStart Academy. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Holmes Colleges Sydney, meeting entry requirements (if any) and providing English test scores if needed. Deadlines vary. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, use the CoE to apply for a visa, ensuring you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above or contact Holmes Colleges Sydney directly for current fees and intake dates.
General English (Beginner to Advanced) (1 to 48 weeks) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmes Colleges Sydney 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.