General English (CRICOS course code 0100415) is a Non AQF Award delivered by GOLD COAST INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE PTY. LTD. over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This course is designed for international students who want to build their English language proficiency for everyday communication, further study, or work in Australia. HeadStart Academy provides this page to help you understand the key details: fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa implications. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy does not charge fees or receive commissions — our goal is to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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General English falls under the field of education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). This field is part of the broader Society and Culture category. Typically, such courses focus on developing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in English. Students may also engage in grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural contexts. While each provider designs their own curriculum, graduates generally achieve a level of English sufficient for everyday interactions, further study pathways, or entry into vocational or higher education programs. This course is classified as Non AQF Award, meaning it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification, but it is registered with CRICOS and meets government standards for international students.
According to the CRICOS register, General English runs for 60 weeks (1 year 2 months). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification course with no dual award or foundation studies component. The course is likely offered in a full-time face-to-face mode at the provider's campuses. International students should be aware that full-time study is a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500). You must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress to comply with visa requirements.
The indicative tuition fee for General English is A$21,000, with non-tuition fees of A$850, totalling an estimated A$21,850. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are set by GOLD COAST INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE PTY. LTD. Please note that fees are subject to change and do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders; annual costs for single cover start around A$600. Living costs vary – in Southport/Miami (Gold Coast), weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$200 to A$350, groceries around A$80 to A$150, and public transport about A$40 to A$60. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider before applying.
English language requirements for General English vary by provider. Typically, for ELICOS courses, you may not need a minimum IELTS score as the course itself builds English proficiency. However, some providers require a baseline level, such as IELTS 4.0 or equivalent, to place you in the appropriate class. Higher-level courses may require IELTS 5.5–7.0. Generally, you should have completed secondary school in your home country. If you intend to use this course as a pathway to further study, check with the provider about progression options. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting GOLD COAST INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE PTY. LTD. directly for specific entry requirements.
General English has no work component. This means the course does not include mandatory work placement, internships, or industry experience. However, as a Student visa holder, you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Keep in mind that work must not interfere with your studies.
This course is delivered at two locations on the Gold Coast, Queensland: 162 Scarborough St, SOUTHPORT QLD 4215 and 1A, 56 Paradise Avenue, MIAMI QLD 4220. Southport is the main hub of the Gold Coast, with many educational institutions, shopping centres, and public transport links including the G:link light rail. Miami is a quieter coastal suburb, also well-connected. The Gold Coast is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers (April 2026), offering a vibrant student community. Living costs here are slightly lower than Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive option for international students.
International students enrolled in General English will typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment, satisfactory attendance and progress, holding OSHC, and complying with work conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). You must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions and adequate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. OSHC is mandatory – you can organise through providers like Medibank, Allianz, or Bupa. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Your application for General English at GOLD COAST INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE PTY. LTD. follows three simple steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – filter by course level, field (ELICOS), and city (Gold Coast) on HeadStart Academy to confirm the course suits your goals. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – check entry requirements (e.g., English proficiency tests, academic documents) and submit your application by the deadline. You may need to provide a copy of your passport and previous qualifications. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, the provider issues a CoE, which you use to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have valid OSHC and sufficient funds.
The Gold Coast is a popular destination for international students, known for its beaches, warm climate, and growing education sector. With over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, you have options. Living costs here are moderate; a student might spend around A$1,500 per month on rent, food, and transport. Public transport includes buses and the light rail; discounts are available with a Go Card. Consider if you prefer a lively city atmosphere (Southport) or a quieter suburb (Miami). Both campuses are near amenities. Remember that ELICOS courses can be a stepping stone to further study – check if this provider offers pathways to vocational or higher education courses.
Ready to start your English language journey? Apply directly to GOLD COAST INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE PTY. LTD. today. For more information, explore other ELICOS courses on HeadStart Academy.
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General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at GOLD COAST INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE 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.