General English Course (CRICOS course code 071778F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Pacific Language School Pty Ltd over 1 year 7 months (~84 weeks). This ELICOS course is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. As a full-time course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), it meets the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Pacific Language School, CRICOS provider code 03215E, is a private institution based in Surfers Paradise, Queensland. The course covers skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking at a general English level, preparing students for further study or everyday communication in English-speaking environments. With multiple delivery locations across Surfers Paradise, students can choose a campus that suits their needs. Australia is a popular destination for ELICOS students, with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. This course reflects the high standards of Australian English language teaching, regulated under the ESOS Act to protect international students' rights.
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This course falls under the field of Education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). General English focuses on developing communicative competence in everyday situations. Students learn grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural nuances to build confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The course prepares learners for social interactions, basic work environments, and potential further study in Australia. Although it is a Non AQF Award, it serves as a foundation for academic or vocational pathways. ELICOS courses are particularly popular in Surfers Paradise, which hosts numerous language schools due to its vibrant international student community and high tourist numbers. Graduates commonly achieve an English level equivalent to IELTS 5.0–6.0, enabling them to progress to vocational or higher education programs.
The General English Course runs for 84 weeks (1 year 7 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time course delivered in English, with no dual qualification or foundation study component. The duration allows students to progress gradually, with classes typically scheduled in morning or afternoon sessions. Pacific Language School offers a structured learning environment, with multiple intakes throughout the year. Students should expect approximately 20 hours of classroom study per week, plus self-study and homework. The extended duration is common for ELICOS courses, as language acquisition requires sustained immersion.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$16,000 for the entire 84-week program, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$16,000. Please note these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Pacific Language School sets its own fees, so always confirm current charges on their website (www.pacificenglishstudy.com). The tuition fee does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For a full budget, students should budget for health cover (around A$600 per year), weekly living costs in Surfers Paradise (indicative rent A$300–450, groceries A$80–150, transport A$30–50), and visa fees (currently A$710 for Subclass 500).
Entry requirements vary by provider. For this General English course, Pacific Language School typically requires completion of Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. English language proficiency is usually assessed via an internal placement test or an IELTS score (commonly 5.5 overall for intermediate levels). Some students may enter at a lower level and progress through the course. There are no foundation or pathway programs tied to this course, but students seeking further study after ELICOS can transition to vocational or higher education programs at the same provider or elsewhere. Always check with Pacific Language School for the most current entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and may change, so students should verify current rules on the Department of Home Affairs website. Surfers Paradise offers many casual employment opportunities in hospitality, retail, and tourism, which can help offset living costs.
Pacific Language School delivers the General English Course from four campuses in Surfers Paradise, Queensland: Campus 3 - Suite 5 29 Elkhorn Ave; Campus 3 Pacific Elkhorn Ave; Level 2, 17 Orchid Avenue; and Level 5 18-20 Orchid Ave. Surfers Paradise is a major hub for international students, with dozens of CRICOS-registered providers and a large student population. Living costs in the Gold Coast region are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$300–450, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$30–50. The area has excellent public transport, including buses and light rail, connecting campuses to accommodation and amenities. Beachside living and a vibrant social scene add to the appeal.
This course is registered for the Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2026, the student visa application fee is A$710, and health cover costs around A$600 per year. While on a Student visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in the General English Course at Pacific Language School: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Queensland). You'll find this course and compare options. 2. Apply directly to Pacific Language School: Submit an application via their website (www.pacificenglishstudy.com) or through an education agent. Meet entry requirements, provide evidence of English proficiency, and check application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of OSHC, finances, and GTE statement.
Start your English language journey in Australia. Use HeadStart Academy to find more ELICOS courses and compare options.
General English Course is a CRICOS-registered programme at Pacific Language School 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.