General ELICOS (CRICOS course code 017337B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by South Australian College of English Pty Ltd over 48 weeks (~11 months). This course is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00094M), South Australian College of English is authorised to enrol overseas students, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards and the ESOS Act. Whether you plan to progress to further study or simply enhance your communication skills, this program offers a structured pathway to achieve your goals. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource based on the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — no commissions or referral fees are involved.
General ELICOS (CRICOS course code 017337B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by South Australian College of English Pty Ltd over 48 weeks (~11 months). This course falls under the field of Education of Society and Culture, specifically Language and Literature (ELICOS). It is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00094M), South Australian College of English is authorised to enrol overseas students, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards and the ESOS Act. With Australia hosting over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, this program represents a reliable choice for students in Adelaide and Melbourne.
ELICOS courses focus on developing English language skills across reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students typically engage with grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural context to build fluency and accuracy for real-world communication. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates at this level can expect improved confidence in using English for study, work, or daily life. The Non AQF Award level indicates this course does not lead to a formal qualification, but it prepares students for further study or employment in English-speaking environments. South Australian College of English may offer specialised instruction in academic English or general communication, so check the provider's website for detailed learning outcomes.
The course duration is 48 weeks (~11 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification course (no dual qualification). Study mode is typically full-time, face-to-face, though you should confirm delivery arrangements directly with the provider. The course is not foundation studies and has no VET national code. Being a Non AQF Award, it focuses on language proficiency rather than a formal degree or diploma.
The indicative tuition fee for General ELICOS at South Australian College of English Pty Ltd is A$18,489. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, and the estimated total cost is A$18,489. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the student visa application charge are not included in this figure. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change — always confirm current fees on the provider's website at http://www.sacecoll.sa.edu.au. For a general guide, international students in Adelaide should budget approximately A$450–$600 per week for accommodation, food, and transport.
English language requirements vary by provider. For General ELICOS, many institutions expect a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent) depending on the course level. Prior academic qualifications are not typically required for beginners, but providers may assess your English level through placement testing. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students aiming to progress to higher education — contact South Australian College of English for specific requirements. Remember, entry criteria are set by the institution, not by HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake any work placement as part of the curriculum. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Always check your visa's work rights on the Department of Home Affairs website.
General ELICOS is delivered at two locations: South Australian College of English Pty Ltd — Adelaide, SA (main campus) and Tower 4, Level 5, World Trade Centre, 18-38 Siddeley Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3005 — Melbourne, VIC. Adelaide is a student-friendly city with over 30 CRICOS-registered providers and affordable living costs (approx. $400–$550/week rent). Melbourne is a major education hub with more than 100 CRICOS providers, higher living costs ($500–$700/week rent), and excellent public transport. Both campuses are accessible via public transport.
International students enrolling in General ELICOS must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) unless eligible for an alternative. This visa requires you to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice — consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for details. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your tuition fees are safeguarded.
Adelaide is known for its affordable lifestyle, vibrant culture, and strong student community. With over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, students have diverse options for English language study. The city's public transport system (buses, trams, trains) makes commuting easy, and the cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. Typical weekly expenses: rent $400–$550, groceries $60–$80, transport $30–$50. Consider whether you prefer a smaller city with close-knit communities or a larger metropolis like Melbourne. Both locations for this course offer unique experiences.
ELICOS courses are ideal for students who want to improve their English before pursuing formal qualifications or for personal growth. Check the provider's track record, student support services, and pathways to further study. South Australian College of English has been CRICOS-registered since 1995 (provider code 00094M). Also consider location — Adelaide offers a quieter environment, while Melbourne provides more multicultural exposure. Visit the provider's website for detailed course outlines and speak with the institution about your specific goals.
Follow these three steps to start your journey with General ELICOS at South Australian College of English Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Adelaide or Melbourne). Compare courses and read about the provider's reputation. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet the entry requirements (English test scores, if any), submit your application before the deadline, and provide any required documents. The provider will assess your eligibility. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prove financial capacity.
Ready to start your General ELICOS journey? Visit the South Australian College of English website for current fees and application details.
View the full South Australian College of English Pty Ltd profile →
General ELICOS is a CRICOS-registered programme at South Australian College of English 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.