General English (CRICOS course code 084626D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This ELICOS course (field of education 091501 - Language and Literature) is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency in a supportive academic environment. Delivered at the George Brown College campus in Haymarket, Sydney, the course provides students with practical skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03208D), Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd ensures all courses meet the rigorous standards set by the Australian Government for overseas students. Whether you are preparing for further study, work, or daily life in Australia, General English offers a pathway to building confidence and competence in English. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you have accurate, up-to-date information to make informed decisions about your study abroad journey. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) is your free resource for exploring CRICOS-registered courses across Australia.
This course falls under the field of ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), which focuses on developing practical English language skills. Students typically engage in a balanced curriculum covering grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and communication strategies. Core areas include listening comprehension, spoken fluency, reading comprehension, and writing for various purposes. The course may also incorporate cultural orientation and academic English preparation to help students adapt to life in Australia. As a Non AQF Award, this course does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but provides essential language foundations for progression to vocational or higher education programs. The specific syllabus is determined by the provider; contact Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd for detailed course content.
The course duration is 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is conducted entirely in English. This is a single qualification — no dual awards or foundation studies are offered for this course. Students typically attend full-time classes, allowing for intensive language immersion. With 60 weeks of study, learners can progress through multiple proficiency levels, gaining confidence and competence in English.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register are as follows: tuition A$22,800, non-tuition fees A$550, estimated total A$23,350. These amounts are subject to change and should be confirmed directly with the provider. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$500–A$700 per week in Sydney for rent, groceries, and transport), and the visa application charge. For current fee schedules, visit the provider's website: www.georgebrown.nsw.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider; for this course, typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. Prior qualifications: students generally need to have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12. Some providers may require a placement test to determine the appropriate starting level. There are no foundation studies or pathway options specifically tied to this course. Refer to Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd for detailed entry criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain work experience and support yourself financially while studying.
The course is delivered at George Brown College – Level 5, 191-199 Thomas St, Haymarket, NSW 2000. Haymarket is located in Sydney's Central Business District, close to major transport hubs including Central Station, light rail, and bus services. Sydney is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the Australian average, with indicative weekly rent of A$300–A$500 for shared accommodation, groceries around A$80–A$150, and public transport about A$40–A$60. The campus is within walking distance to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to enrol in this course. Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act (Education Services for Overseas Students) provides legal protections, including tuition refunds under certain conditions. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current policies. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Sydney) to confirm this course meets your goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet entry requirements, submit English test scores if required, and adhere to application deadlines. Contact Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd for application forms and procedures. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa online via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Sydney offers a vibrant lifestyle with world-class beaches, a multicultural food scene, and a strong economy. It hosts the largest international student population in Australia, with over 200,000 enrolled across numerous institutions. The city's public transport network makes commuting easy, and part-time work opportunities are plentiful. However, living costs are among the highest in Australia. Consider your budget and preferences when choosing a study destination. HeadStart Academy provides resources to compare courses and locations across all states, including NSW, to help you make an informed decision.
Ready to start your journey? Explore this General English course or contact Captain Cook Institute Pty Ltd directly. For more courses, visit HeadStart Academy.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Captain Cook Institute 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.