General English (CRICOS course code 024348G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd over 48 weeks (~11 months). This course is registered under the field of Education: Society and Culture (09) with a focus on Language and Literature (0915) and specifically ELICOS (091501). ELICOS programs are designed to help international students develop their English language proficiency for academic, professional, or general purposes. As a CRICOS-registered course (024348G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolments. Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01647G) is a private provider with multiple campuses across Queensland. Whether you aim to improve your English for further study, work, or daily life, this course offers a structured pathway. All costs shown are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource to help you navigate your study options in Australia. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses, you have many choices. This page gives you detailed information about this specific course, including fees, locations, and visa considerations.
General English falls under the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) category. This field focuses on developing communicative competence in English across reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Courses at this level are tailored to various proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced. Students typically engage in interactive lessons that cover grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and real-life communication scenarios. The curriculum is designed to build confidence and fluency, preparing learners for further academic study or integration into English-speaking environments. While specific syllabi vary by provider, ELICOS programs often include project work, group discussions, and cultural activities. Graduates of General English may progress to academic English programs or vocational courses. It is important to note that this is a Non AQF Award, meaning it does not count towards an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification but is widely recognised as evidence of English proficiency.
The course duration is 48 weeks (approximately 11 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time with instruction in English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend face-to-face classes at one of the provider's campuses, with a typical contact hours of 20-25 hours per week. The 48-week duration allows for steady language progression, with assessments at regular intervals. Please confirm study mode options with Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd, as some providers may offer part-time or online variations for domestic students, but international student visa conditions require full-time study.
The indicative tuition fee for General English (024348G) is A$16,560, with non-tuition fees of A$630, giving an estimated total of A$17,190. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are set by Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd. Please note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fees and any additional charges, always visit the provider's website at www.holmesinstitute.edu.au or contact them directly. As a guideline, international students in Queensland should budget approximately A$21,000 per year for living costs (covering rent, food, transport, etc.), as recommended by the Department of Home Affairs. The total cost of studying in Australia includes tuition plus living expenses, so plan accordingly.
English language requirements for General English vary by provider and course level. Typically, providers expect an IELTS score between 5.5 and 7.0 overall (or equivalent) for entry into academic English programs, but for General English, the requirements are often more flexible. Some providers accept students from beginner to advanced levels without a formal English test, using a placement test upon arrival. Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd may require a minimum IELTS 4.0 or equivalent for lower levels, and higher for advanced streams. There are no prior academic qualifications specified for this Non AQF Award. For students who need additional support, foundation or pathway options may be available—please check with the provider. It is essential to meet the English proficiency level required for your intended course level to ensure successful learning.
This course has no mandatory work component. General English focuses purely on language development without an integrated work placement or internship. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights can provide valuable experience and financial support, but are not part of the curriculum.
General English is delivered at four locations under Holmes Colleges Queensland Pty Ltd: Brisbane Campus (Brisbane, QLD), Cairns Campus (Cairns, QLD), Gold Coast Campus (Surfers Paradise, QLD), and Level 2 & 3 126 Margaret Street, Brisbane 4000 (Brisbane, QLD). Brisbane is the state capital with a large student population and excellent public transport. Cairns offers a tropical environment with access to the Great Barrier Reef. Gold Coast is known for its beaches and vibrant student life. Each campus provides a unique study experience. When choosing a location, consider factors like cost of living (weekly rent: Brisbane $350-500, Cairns $300-450, Gold Coast $400-600), weather, and lifestyle. There are many CRICOS-registered providers in these cities, offering abundant choices.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, having Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The course must be CRICOS-registered (as this one is) to qualify. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Start your English study journey today — explore General English at Holmes Colleges and take the next step toward your goals in Australia.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmes Colleges Queensland 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.