General English (4-52 weeks) (CRICOS course code 069099C) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course falls under the field of Education 0915 - Language and Literature, specifically ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). As a registered CRICOS course on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, it is designed for international students seeking to improve their English proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03127E) is a private institution with multiple delivery locations across Australia, including Adelaide, Docklands, and Murdoch. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, this ELICOS program is a popular choice for students aiming to meet English requirements for further study or everyday communication in Australia. All institutions are subject to the ESOS Act protections, ensuring international students have legal rights and a high standard of education.
General English (4-52 weeks) is a Non AQF Award course, meaning it is not aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework but focuses on practical language skills. It is delivered by Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03127E), a private provider with a strong reputation in ELICOS. The course runs for 52 weeks (1 year), though students can enrol for shorter periods between 4 and 52 weeks. The language of instruction is English, and no work component is included. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian government standards for international students. Students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, which include tuition fee safeguards and clear complaint processes. This course is ideal for building confidence in English for academic, social, or professional contexts.
As an ELICOS course in the field of Language and Literature (091501), General English focuses on improving listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. While specific curricula vary by provider, graduates typically achieve a higher level of fluency and accuracy in everyday English. The course covers grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and communication strategies, often incorporating real-world tasks like presentations, discussions, and essay writing. This level is designed for students with varying proficiency, from beginner to advanced, and helps prepare for further study or English proficiency tests like IELTS. Although not a foundation or bridging program, it provides a solid base for academic English courses.
According to the CRICOS register, the course duration is 1 year (52 weeks). Study mode is full-time, with classes held in English. It is a single qualification program—no dual qualification is offered. The course does not include a foundation studies component. Students must maintain satisfactory attendance to comply with student visa conditions. The full-time load typically involves around 20 hours of face-to-face teaching per week, with additional self-study.
The indicative tuition fee for General English (4-52 weeks) is A$24,440, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees total A$790, bringing the estimated total to A$25,230. Please note: OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. For current, accurate fees, always check with Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd directly at their official website. HeadStart Academy provides these fees as a guide only—they are set by the institution and subject to change. Living costs vary by city: for example, weekly rent in Adelaide averages A$150–A$250, in Docklands (Melbourne) A$200–A$350, and in Murdoch (Perth) A$180–A$300. Budget for groceries (A$70–100/week) and public transport (A$30–50/week).
Entry requirements for General English vary by provider. Typically, no prior academic qualification is needed, as ELICOS courses are open to students of all levels. However, a placement test may determine your starting level. For English language requirements, many providers recommend a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 overall for intermediate levels, but this can range from 5.5 to 7.0 depending on the course level. For beginner levels, no formal test score may be required, but you should have basic literacy. Check with Kaplan Higher Education for their specific English language policy. This course does not lead directly to foundation or pathway programs, but it can be a stepping stone to academic English courses.
This course has no mandatory work component. It is purely academic English study. However, student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides an opportunity for international students to gain work experience and supplement living costs.
Kaplan Higher Education delivers this course at four locations: 132 Grenfell St, Adelaide (SA); Level 5, 370 Docklands Drive, Docklands 3008 (VIC); Level 9, 68 Grenfell Street, Adelaide (SA); and Murdoch College, Murdoch (WA). Adelaide is a vibrant, affordable city with a large student population and easy public transport. Docklands is a modern precinct in Melbourne, offering proximity to cultural attractions and job opportunities. Murdoch is a suburban area in Perth, known for its university campus and quiet study environment. Each location provides access to Australia's quality education infrastructure, with numerous CRICOS-registered providers in the area.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time and work up to 48 hours per fortnight when your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity evidence is also required. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. All CRICOS-registered courses comply with ESOS protections.
Applying for General English (4-52 weeks) at Kaplan Higher Education involves three simple steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy by filtering for course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Adelaide, Docklands, or Murdoch). Ensure the provider is registered (Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd CRICOS 03127E). 2. Apply directly to Kaplan Higher Education by submitting your application, meeting entry requirements (including any English language test), and adhering to deadlines. You may need to provide academic transcripts, passport, and proof of English proficiency. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for visa conditions including GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge referral fees.
Ready to improve your English? Explore General English at Kaplan Higher Education and start your journey to Australia today.
General English (4-52 weeks) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Kaplan Higher Education 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.