General English (CRICOS course code 078701D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks). This ELICOS program focuses on developing English language proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing for everyday and academic contexts. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03349B), it meets the requirements for international student visas under Subclass 500. Students can choose to study at the Sydney campus or the Central Coast campus in Mangrove Creek. The indicative total cost is A$32,000 for the full program.
General English (CRICOS 078701D) is a Non AQF Award at level 091501 (ELICOS) under the field of Society and Culture. Delivered by STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03349B), a private provider with campuses in New South Wales. The course runs for 92 weeks (1 year 9 months) and is taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award. As an ELICOS program, it is designed to prepare students for further study or everyday communication in English-speaking environments. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy sources data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), covering 26,433 courses across all study levels and states.
As an ELICOS program in Language and Literature (091501), General English develops core language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students learn grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational strategies. The course typically includes tasks such as essay writing, presentations, group discussions, and comprehension exercises. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates emerge with improved fluency and accuracy for everyday, academic, or professional contexts. This level is ideal for students who need to meet English requirements for further studies or want to build confidence in using English in Australia.
The course is 92 weeks (1 year 9 months) of full-time study, taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. The CRICOS register lists the duration as 92 weeks. Students attend classes on campus at either the Sydney or Central Coast location. The study mode is face-to-face, with no online or blended options specified. For visa purposes, full-time study is typically required for Student visa (Subclass 500) holders.
Tuition fees: A$32,000 (indicative). Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total: A$32,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges. For current fees, always check directly with STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd at www.scic.nsw.edu.au. Living costs vary by location: Sydney's indicative weekly rent is A$450–600, groceries A$80–120, and transport A$40–50. Central Coast (Mangrove Creek) is more affordable, with rent around A$300–450 per week.
English language requirements vary by provider for ELICOS courses. Typically, students need an IELTS score between 5.5 and 7.0 overall, depending on the intended exit level. Prior qualifications: As a Non AQF Award, no specific prior academic qualification is required, but students must meet the provider's English proficiency standards. Some providers may offer placements based on an internal test. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course; refer to the provider for bridging options. Always confirm entry requirements directly with STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component like an internship or placement. However, Student visa holders are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are separate from the course structure.
This course is delivered at two locations in New South Wales: Level 3, 233 Castlereagh Street, Sydney 2000 (Sydney CBD) and SCIC Central Coast Campus, 300 Mangrove Creek Rd, Mangrove Creek NSW 2250. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200,000 international students and more than 500 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is near Central Station, providing easy access via trains and buses. Mangrove Creek is a semi-rural area about 1.5 hours north of Sydney, offering a quieter study environment. The Central Coast region has a growing student population and lower living costs. Public transport from Mangrove Creek to Gosford and Sydney is available via bus and train.
New South Wales is home to over 600 CRICOS-registered providers, offering thousands of courses across all levels. For ELICOS students, the state provides diverse options from city campuses to regional settings. Sydney alone has numerous language schools and colleges, with a vibrant multicultural community. Living costs in Sydney are higher (A$2,000–2,500 per month), while regional areas like the Central Coast are more affordable (A$1,500–2,000 per month). Both locations offer good public transport and access to amenities. Consider your budget, lifestyle preference, and proximity to further study options when choosing a campus.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year for a single student) and travel, OSHC for the duration of stay, and English proficiency if required. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. ESOS Act protections apply, including tuition fee protection and refund policies. For visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to secure your place: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare ELICOS courses. Filter by course level (Non AQF), field (ELICOS), and location (NSW). Verify the provider's CRICOS code (03349B) on the official register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd via their website (www.scic.nsw.edu.au). Submit required documents: passport copy, English proficiency test results (if any), and academic history. Meet any entry requirements and deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to apply for a student visa online via ImmiAccount. Include the CoE, GTE statement, OSHC evidence, and proof of funds. Wait for visa grant before traveling.
Ready to study General English in Australia? Use HeadStart Academy to compare more CRICOS-registered ELICOS courses and start your application journey today.
View the full STEPS Sunshine Coast International College Pty Ltd profile →
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at STEPS Sunshine Coast International College 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.