General English (CRICOS course code 0100973) is a Non AQF Award delivered by KNIT GROUP AUSTRALIA PTY LTD over 1 year 10 months (~97 weeks). This ELICOS course is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency for study, work, or everyday life in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets the standards required for student visa (Subclass 500) eligibility. Delivered at two Sydney campuses in Burwood and Surry Hills, the course offers flexible study options in a vibrant urban environment. Whether you aim to progress to further studies or enhance your career prospects, General English provides a solid foundation in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource; all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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General English (CRICOS 0100973) is a Non AQF Award within the field of Society and Culture, specifically Language and Literature (091501 ELICOS). It is offered by KNIT GROUP AUSTRALIA PTY LTD (CRICOS 03648B), a private provider with a focus on English language training. The course runs for 97 weeks (1 year 10 months), with instruction entirely in English. It is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies) and does not include a VET national code, as it is not a VET course. There is no mandatory work component. This CRICOS registration ensures that the course meets Australian Government quality standards for international students under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses across Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. For this course, the indicative tuition fee is A$25,200, plus non-tuition fees of A$970, bringing the estimated total to A$26,170. Always confirm fees with the provider.
As an ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) program, General English focuses on developing practical communication skills in English. The curriculum typically covers listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Students engage in interactive activities, group discussions, and real-world tasks to build confidence and fluency. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, at this level (Non AQF Award), graduates often achieve proficiency sufficient for everyday interactions, further academic study, or employment in English-speaking environments. The field of Language and Literature (091501) encompasses language acquisition and cultural understanding, preparing students for diverse pathways. For specific learning outcomes, contact KNIT GROUP AUSTRALIA PTY LTD.
The course spans 1 year 10 months (~97 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register (97 weeks exactly). All instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification with no dual awards or foundation stream. The duration allows for comprehensive language development, including both structured classes and self-directed study. Students typically attend full-time, which aligns with student visa requirements. The Burwood and Surry Hills campuses offer a supportive learning environment in Sydney, a city with over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population.
Tuition fees for General English are A$25,200 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS). Non-tuition fees total A$970, covering materials, administration, or other charges. The estimated total is A$26,170. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. As a guide, international students in Sydney typically budget A$400–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change – always verify current fees with KNIT GROUP AUSTRALIA PTY LTD before applying. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders; costs vary by provider and coverage level.
Entry requirements for General English vary by provider. KNIT GROUP AUSTRALIA PTY LTD typically expects applicants to have a minimum English proficiency, often equivalent to IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the course level. Some providers may require a language assessment. For this Non AQF Award, prior qualifications are generally not required beyond secondary school completion. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable; check with the provider for alternative entry. Note that meeting the minimum English requirement does not guarantee admission – the provider may also consider academic background and visa eligibility. As with all CRICOS courses, you must comply with the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. For specific entry conditions, contact KNIT GROUP AUSTRALIA PTY LTD directly.
General English has no mandatory work component. However, while holding a student visa (Subclass 500), you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This course does not include internships or placements, but the skills gained can enhance employability in hospitality, retail, or other sectors. Always check your visa's work rights and conditions.
This course is delivered at two campuses in New South Wales: Burwood Campus (11 Deane St, Burwood NSW) and Surry Hills Campus (Suite 403, 400-412 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010). Both are in Sydney, a major hub for international students with over 100,000 international enrolments. Burwood is a lively suburb with excellent public transport via Burwood Station and buses, while Surry Hills is near Central Station and the city centre. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the Australian average; indicative weekly rent is around $300–$500 for shared accommodation, with groceries and transport adding $150–$250. The campuses offer modern facilities and easy access to shops, cafes, and cultural venues.
To study General English, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English proficiency evidence. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory – providers like Allianz, BUPA, Medibank offer cover from around $500–$1000 per year depending on duration. Visa application charges are currently $710 (subject to change). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for details.
Sydney offers a dynamic environment for international students, with over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse community. The city boasts iconic landmarks, beaches, and cultural events. However, the cost of living is high – expect to budget $600–$800 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. Public transport is reliable, with Opal cards for trains, buses, and ferries. For language study, Sydney provides ample opportunities for English practice outside the classroom. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences before choosing this destination.
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General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at KNIT GROUP AUSTRALIA 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.