General English (CRICOS course code 074849E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by English Unlimited Brisbane Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~77 weeks). This course is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency in a real-world, immersive environment. Delivered in the heart of Brisbane at 138 Albert Street, Levels 9 and 10, the program covers all four macro-skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing, while building vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03296K), it meets Australian Government quality standards and is eligible for student visa (Subclass 500) holders. Whether you aim to progress to further study, work in English-speaking settings, or simply gain confidence, this course offers a structured pathway. English Unlimited Brisbane Pty Ltd also operates under ESOS Act protections, ensuring your rights as an international student are safeguarded. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
General English (CRICOS course code 074849E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by English Unlimited Brisbane Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~77 weeks). Classified under Field of Education 0915 Language and Literature (ELICOS), this course focuses on developing practical English communication skills for everyday, academic, and professional contexts. The program is full-time and conducted in English, with no vocational or foundation components. As a standalone ELICOS course, it does not lead to a dual qualification or higher education award but serves as a foundational step for students aiming to meet English entry requirements for further study or employment in Australia. All aspects of delivery adhere to CRICOS registration standards, ensuring the course meets Australian Government requirements for international student enrolment.
The General English program at English Unlimited Brisbane covers the field of Language and Literature (ELICOS), focusing on integrated language skills. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to communicate fluently in social situations, comprehend authentic texts, write coherent paragraphs and essays, and understand spoken English in a variety of accents. The curriculum emphasizes real-life contexts such as travel, work, and study, with learners progressing through levels from beginner to advanced. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates of ELICOS courses generally achieve the linguistic competence needed to pursue further education or employment in English-speaking environments. This course does not include a work component, but the skills acquired are transferable across many industries.
Duration: 1 year 6 months (77 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. This full-time program is taught in English only and is a single qualification (no dual awards). Students typically attend classes 20 hours per week, with additional independent study. The 77-week period includes both teaching and scheduled breaks. As a non-award course, it does not count towards a formal Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level, but it is a pathway to meeting English proficiency requirements for other courses. The length allows for substantial immersion and progression.
Tuition: A$22,330. Non-tuition fees: A$800. Estimated total: A$23,130. These are indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by English Unlimited Brisbane Pty Ltd and subject to change. The following are NOT included in this total: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current and accurate fees, please refer to the provider's official website: https://www.apc.edu.au/study/about-english-unlimited/. HeadStart Academy recommends always confirming costs directly with the institution before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider and course level. For this General English course, a typical entry benchmark is IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall, though some providers accept equivalent results from TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge exams. Since it is a Non AQF Award, there are no formal prior academic qualifications required, but students may need to sit a placement test to determine their starting level. Foundation or pathway options: Not applicable as this is an ELICOS course; however, successful completion could lead to direct entry into academic programs. For specific entry criteria, contact English Unlimited Brisbane Pty Ltd directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, the course itself does not offer a work placement or internship component. All learning is classroom-based at the Brisbane campus.
138 Albert Street - Levels 9 and 10, Brisbane QLD 4000. Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is home to over 2.5 million people and a vibrant student population representing more than 100 nationalities. The city has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering ELICOS courses. The Albert Street campus is in the central business district, within walking distance of public transport (train, bus, ferry). Indicative living costs in Brisbane: weekly rent A$200–$400, groceries A$80–$150, public transport A$30–$50 (with student concessions available). The city is known for its subtropical climate and outdoor lifestyle, making it an attractive study destination.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: you must be a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) and provide evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and dependents (if any). Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. More details: /visa/student-visa-subclass-500 and /visa/oshc-health-cover.
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Brisbane). Ensure the provider is currently registered (CRICOS 03296K). Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check English proficiency requirements (IELTS or equivalent), submit your application with supporting documents (passport, academic transcripts, evidence of English level), and meet any application deadlines. The provider will issue a Letter of Offer. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the institution issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, paying the visa application charge and arranging OSHC. For detailed visa guidance, refer to our student visa page.
Brisbane offers a balanced lifestyle with lower living costs than Sydney or Melbourne. It has a thriving job market, especially in healthcare, education, and technology. For General English students, the city provides numerous opportunities to practise English in real-life settings through cultural events, community groups, and part-time work. With over 20 ELICOS providers, you have choice and flexibility. However, consider climate: Brisbane has hot summers and mild winters. Public transport is efficient but may require budgeting. Overall, Brisbane is an excellent choice for students who prefer a smaller, friendly city with a strong focus on education.
Ready to apply for General English at English Unlimited Brisbane? Start your journey with HeadStart Academy's step-by-step guide.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at English Unlimited Brisbane 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.