General English (CRICOS course code 017804B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by SA Adelaide Language Centre Ltd over 40 weeks (~9 months). This course is part of the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) field, designed to help international students improve their English proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. As a CRICOS-registered provider (01307F), SA Adelaide Language Centre Ltd is authorised to enrol overseas students, ensuring you receive quality education under Australia’s ESOS Act protections. Whether you plan to study in Adelaide’s vibrant city or near Melbourne’s Box Hill hub, this course offers a pathway to higher-level programs or everyday English confidence. HeadStart Academy brings you this information directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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General English (017804B) is a Non AQF Award at the ELICOS level (Field of Education 091501). It is offered by SA Adelaide Language Centre Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered institution (01307F). The course runs for 40 weeks (approximately 9 months) with instruction entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation components. Students attend classes at one of two delivery locations: 15 Cross Rd, Urrbrae, SA 5064 or 98 Albion Road, Box Hill, VIC 3128. With no mandatory work component, the focus is purely on language development. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses — this course is one of many that meet the rigorous standards of the Australian education system. HeadStart Academy recommends verifying current course details directly with the provider, as CRICOS information is a reliable starting point but may be updated.
As an ELICOS course in the Language and Literature field, General English typically covers listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, along with grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. While the specific syllabus is set by SA Adelaide Language Centre Ltd, courses at this level aim to build foundational to intermediate English competence. Students engage in interactive classes, group discussions, and real-world tasks to improve fluency and accuracy. The program may include preparation for common English proficiency tests such as IELTS, though this is not guaranteed. This field of education (091501) is designed for non-native speakers seeking to enhance their English for further study or everyday life. Always check with the provider for a detailed curriculum outline.
The course is scheduled for 40 weeks (~9 months) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is full-time in English, and the program is a single qualification — no dual award. There are no foundation studies attached. Classes are likely held on-campus at the chosen delivery location. Students should expect a typical study load of around 20 hours per week, though this varies by provider. The 40-week duration allows for steady language acquisition and may include scheduled breaks. HeadStart Academy advises checking the exact timetable with the institution to plan accommodation and part-time work arrangements.
According to the CRICOS register, indicative tuition fees for General English are A$11,800, with non-tuition fees of A$0, giving an estimated total of A$11,800. This amount covers course fees only. Important additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For example, OSHC costs around A$500–A$700 per year, and the Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of living costs (approx. A$21,041 per year for a single student). Always confirm current fees with the provider on their website (www.elspm.org.au) as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides this as a guide only — never rely solely on CRICOS data for financial planning.
Entry requirements vary by provider. For General English, SA Adelaide Language Centre Ltd typically requires a minimum English proficiency. While the CRICOS register does not specify an exact score, international students generally need IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall for higher-level courses, but ELICOS programs may accept lower levels. Prior academic qualifications may not be required for a Non AQF Award, but applicants should hold at least the equivalent of Australian Year 10. Some providers also accept alternative English tests like TOEFL or PTE. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course; contact the provider for bridging programs. HeadStart Academy recommends checking specific entry requirements directly with SA Adelaide Language Centre Ltd.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake work experience as part of the program. However, international students on a Subclass 500 visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. Balancing work and study is possible, but the primary focus remains on English language development. ESOS Act protections ensure you receive a quality education regardless of work arrangements.
General English is delivered at two campuses: 15 Cross Rd, Urrbrae, SA 5064 (near Adelaide) and 98 Albion Road, Box Hill, VIC 3128 (in Melbourne's east). Urrbrae is a suburb of Adelaide, South Australia, a city with a student population of over 40,000 and relatively lower living costs — indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation is A$150–A$250, groceries around A$80–$120, and public transport A$30–$50. Box Hill is a bustling multicultural hub in Melbourne, with a large student community; living costs are higher: shared rent A$200–$350 weekly, groceries A$100–$150, transport A$40–$60. Both locations are well-served by public transport. HeadStart Academy highlights that the number of CRICOS-registered providers in SA is over 120, and in VIC over 400, offering diverse study environments.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) status and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration. Financial capacity requirements include evidence of tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs provides full details. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or visiting homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for General English at SA Adelaide Language Centre Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to browse courses like this one, filter by level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (SA or VIC). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered — SA Adelaide Language Centre Ltd (01307F) is verified. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English proficiency, prior qualifications), prepare your documents (passport, academic transcripts, English test results), and submit an application via the provider’s website (www.elspm.org.au). Note application deadlines; many institutions have intake dates throughout the year. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Remember, visa outcomes are at the discretion of the Department.
ELICOS courses are ideal for students who need to improve English for further study or migration. Consider the location: Adelaide offers a relaxed lifestyle with lower costs, while Box Hill provides vibrant multicultural experiences near Melbourne. Think about your long-term goals — this Non AQF Award may not count toward a degree but can be a stepping stone to higher programs. Check if the provider offers pathways to vocational or university courses. Remember that Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you many options. HeadStart Academy's free resource helps you compare courses without referral fees. Always verify registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.
Ready to study General English in Australia? Explore SA Adelaide Language Centre Ltd on HeadStart Academy and take the first step toward your international education journey.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at SA Adelaide Language Centre 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.