General English (CRICOS course code 059112E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Victoria University over 50 weeks (~12 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 course (provider CRICOS 00124K), it meets Australian Government standards for international education and is covered by the ESOS Act protections. Victoria University is a public university based in Melbourne, offering this course at its City Tower campus in the heart of Melbourne's central business district. With over 300,000 international students in Australia and 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, choosing a registered course ensures quality and visa eligibility. This General English program helps students build confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, preparing them for further study or everyday communication in English-speaking environments. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, and HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge with no referral fees.
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The General English course falls under the field of education 'Language and Literature' (091501 - ELICOS), which focuses on developing English language skills for non-native speakers. Students in this Non AQF Award program typically learn through a communicative approach, covering grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and the four macro skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The curriculum is designed to improve fluency and accuracy, with an emphasis on practical usage in real-life contexts. While specific syllabi vary by provider, ELICOS courses generally prepare students for further academic study (e.g., pathway programs) or for daily life in Australia. Victoria University may offer levels from beginner to advanced, with progression based on assessment outcomes. Graduates often achieve the English proficiency required for entry into vocational or higher education courses. Remember that all CRICOS-registered courses must meet national standards, ensuring a consistent quality of instruction.
According to the CRICOS register, this General English course has a duration of 50 weeks (~12 months). This full-time program is delivered in English only and is a single qualification (not a dual award). The 50-week duration typically allows students to progress through multiple levels of English proficiency. Classes are held on-campus at Victoria University's City Campus in Melbourne. Students should expect a structured timetable with regular contact hours, self-study, and assessments. As a Non AQF Award, this course does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but provides a strong foundation for further studies or employment. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions.
Indicative tuition fees for General English (059112E) are A$25,440 for the full 50-week program. There are no non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, so the estimated total is A$25,440. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with Victoria University directly via their website (http://www.vu.edu.au/). Additional expenses not included in the tuition are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (approximately A$500–$700 per year), living costs such as accommodation (in Melbourne, weekly rent averages $400-$600 for a shared apartment), groceries ($100-$150), and transport ($50 for public transport). You must also budget for the Student visa (Subclass 500) application charge (currently A$1,600). Financial capacity evidence is required for visa grant.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For General English courses, many institutions accept students with lower English proficiency or no formal test score, as the course is designed to improve English from any level. However, Victoria University may set a minimum requirement for entry into specific levels. Prior qualifications expected: students should have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 10 or higher. Some providers may have additional requirements; check directly with Victoria University. Foundation or pathway options: if you do not meet direct entry, you may be able to start at a lower English level or take a bridging program. Always refer to the provider's website for current entry criteria. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia.
This course has no work component. The CRICOS register indicates that there is no mandatory work placement or internship included in the General English program. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This provides an opportunity to gain work experience while studying, but it is not a formal part of the course. Always check your visa conditions for work rights.
General English is delivered at Victoria University City Campus (City Tower) in Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 5 million people and a vibrant international student community of over 200,000. The city offers excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) connecting the campus to suburbs. Studying in Melbourne gives access to diverse cultural experiences, world-class cafes and restaurants, and a strong job market for part-time work. Over 500 CRICOS-registered providers operate in Victoria, offering thousands of courses across all fields. Living costs in Melbourne are slightly higher than the national average, but the quality of life is consistently ranked among the best in the world. The City Tower campus is located in the central business district, close to libraries, parks, and shopping precincts.
To study General English at Victoria University, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus some additional time. Key requirements include: genuine enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course (like this one), proof of English proficiency (unless exempt), financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and satisfaction of the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. After completing your course, you may be eligible to apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the requirements. Remember that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory throughout your stay.
Follow these three steps to begin your General English journey at Victoria University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to explore General English (059112E) and compare other ELICOS courses. Filter by location, duration, and fees to find the best fit.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Victoria University's website (http://www.vu.edu.au/) to check entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Submit your application online with required documents (transcripts, passport, etc.).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, Victoria University will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement ready.
Melbourne is a top destination for international students, offering a safe and multicultural environment. The city is known for its education excellence, with numerous universities and colleges. For General English students, Melbourne provides ample opportunity to practice English daily with native speakers and a large international community. Consider your budget: living costs are around A$1,500–$2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport. The climate is temperate, with cool winters and warm summers. Melbourne's public transport is efficient, and the City Tower campus is easily accessible. The city also has a thriving job market, especially in hospitality and retail, which can help with part-time work. If you prefer a smaller city or a different setting, explore other locations in Australia. HeadStart Academy covers all states and territories.
Ready to start your General English journey? Explore your options at Victoria University today.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Victoria University. 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.