General English (CRICOS course code 091159A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by IAA Education Pty Ltd over 46 weeks (~11 months). This ELICOS program is designed for international students who want to improve their English language skills for study, work, or everyday life in Australia. Located in Adelaide, South Australia, IAA Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03211J) is a private provider registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). With 46 weeks of study, students gain comprehensive language development in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Adelaide offers a vibrant student community with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia and more than 26,000 courses. This course is ideal for those seeking to meet English proficiency requirements for further study or to enhance their employability. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource—no referral fees, just accurate data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
General English falls under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Language and Literature (0915) and ELICOS (091501). While the exact syllabus is set by IAA Education Pty Ltd, typical ELICOS programs focus on developing practical English communication skills. Students engage in activities that improve grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational fluency. Coursework often includes listening comprehension, reading texts, writing essays or reports, and participating in discussions. The goal is to prepare students for academic, professional, or social contexts in English-speaking environments. As a Non AQF Award, this course does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but is widely recognized for pathway purposes. Graduates often progress to vocational or higher education courses that require a minimum English level. Students also benefit from learning in a multicultural setting, enhancing cross-cultural communication skills.
The course duration is 46 weeks (~11 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification course—no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students study full-time, consistent with student visa requirements for Subclass 500. The course does not include a mandatory work component, but students may take up part-time work during their studies (see Student Visa section). IAA Education Pty Ltd delivers face-to-face classes at its Adelaide campus. This fixed duration allows students to plan their visa application and accommodation accordingly.
The indicative fees for General English at IAA Education Pty Ltd are as follows: tuition A$13,600, non-tuition fees A$250, for an estimated total of A$13,850. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Adelaide's cost of living is relatively affordable compared to Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent A$200–350, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–60. Always confirm current fees directly with IAA Education Pty Ltd via their website http://www.iaa.sa.edu.au. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the CRICOS register but cannot guarantee amounts—they are subject to change by the provider.
English language requirements for General English vary by provider. For this course, IAA Education Pty Ltd typically expects a minimum IELTS score of 5.5–7.0 overall, depending on the course level and student goals. Prior qualifications expected are completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. If students do not meet the English requirement, pathway options may be available—check with the provider. Foundation studies are not applicable for this course. All entry requirements are set by IAA Education Pty Ltd and should be verified on their website. Remember, meeting the academic requirements does not guarantee a visa; you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and other Department of Home Affairs conditions.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, as a full-time student on a Subclass 500 visa, you 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 to gain Australian work experience and supplement living costs. Always check your visa grant conditions for any restrictions.
General English is delivered at International Australian Academy in ADELAIDE, SA. Adelaide is South Australia's capital, known for its affordable living and strong student community. The city has numerous CRICOS-registered providers across all study levels. The campus is accessible by public transport, with buses and trams connecting the city. Living costs in Adelaide are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it a popular choice for international students. For more information on studying in South Australia, see our state guide.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintain adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay; provide evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel; and satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight when your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents may also work under certain conditions. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent—consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality assurance and consumer protections.
Adelaide offers a relaxed lifestyle with a vibrant arts scene, festivals, and proximity to beautiful beaches and wine regions. The city has a diverse international student population, with many support services. Cost of living is lower than in other Australian capitals, making it budget-friendly. However, consider that Adelaide has fewer job opportunities compared to Sydney or Melbourne. If you prefer a quieter, more affordable study experience, Adelaide is an excellent choice. Explore other courses in Society and Culture in Adelaide to see what's available.
Follow these three steps to enrol: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare General English courses in Adelaide. Filter by CRICOS code 091159A and check IAA Education Pty Ltd's details. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit IAA Education Pty Ltd's website (http://www.iaa.sa.edu.au) to review exact entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with required documents (transcripts, English test results, passport copy). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the institution will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online, providing evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. For visa help, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to start your General English journey? Visit IAA Education Pty Ltd's website for current fees, start dates, and application forms.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at IAA 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.