General English (Pre-Intermediate) (CRICOS course code 091212A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This ELICOS course is designed for international students who want to improve their English language skills for everyday communication, further study, or work. Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03479C) is a private provider with campuses in Sydney's CBD, offering a supportive learning environment. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, this program is a reliable pathway to building English proficiency. HeadStart Academy provides this detailed overview—sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)—to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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General English (Pre-Intermediate) (CRICOS course code 091212A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd over 12 weeks. This course falls under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Language and Literature (0915), classified as ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). It is designed for students at a pre-intermediate level who wish to develop foundational English skills for social, academic, or professional purposes. The program is offered at two convenient Sydney CBD locations: Castlereagh St Campus (Level 5 245 Castlereagh St) and Pitt St Campus (Level 13, 338-340 Pitt St). As a CRICOS-registered course, it guarantees adherence to Australian quality standards, including the ESOS Act's tuition protection and student welfare requirements. For international students, this course is eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500), allowing work rights and pathway opportunities.
This ELICOS program focuses on building core English language competencies: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. At a pre-intermediate level, learners typically expand vocabulary, improve grammar accuracy, and gain confidence in everyday conversations. Course content often covers topics such as shopping, travel, work, and social interactions, using authentic materials like videos and articles. Graduates can expect to achieve a level suitable for entry into intermediate English courses or for basic workplace communication. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the field of Language and Literature emphasises practical language use over academic theory. Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd integrates communicative teaching methods with regular progress assessments to track improvement. This course is non-accredited (Non AQF Award), meaning it does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but serves as a stepping stone for further study or employment.
The course duration is 12 weeks (12 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). Study is conducted full-time in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Classes are typically held Monday to Friday, allowing students to immerse themselves in an English-speaking environment. The single qualification focus means students commit exclusively to language improvement, without additional vocational subjects. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment is a key requirement for the Student visa (Subclass 500). Sydney's vibrant multicultural setting provides ample opportunities to practise English outside the classroom, from ordering coffee to networking with peers. The 12-week structure is ideal for short-term study plans, enabling students to fast-track their language skills before pursuing higher education or returning home.
Indicative tuition fee: A$2,900 for the 12-week program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should confirm directly with the provider for any additional charges (e.g., materials or enrolment fees). Estimated total cost: A$2,900. Note that this figure does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Sydney are among Australia's highest: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$250 to A$400, groceries around A$70 to A$100, and public transport about A$30 to A$50. Always verify current fees with Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd via their website, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and presents it for guidance only.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a pre-intermediate course, many providers accept lower scores (e.g., IELTS 4.0–5.0) or no formal test; some may use an internal placement test. Prior qualifications expected for this level are minimal—usually completion of secondary schooling or equivalent. Since this is a Non AQF Award, there are no strict academic prerequisites. Foundation/pathway options are not applicable here, but students may progress to intermediate English or vocational courses after completion. Refer to Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd's website for precise entry requirements. International applicants should also demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent and sufficient financial capacity for tuition and living costs. For visa purposes, evidence of English proficiency may be required—check the Department of Home Affairs.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, Student visa (Subclass 500) holders are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain casual work experience while studying, helping with living costs and cultural immersion. Sydney's job market offers opportunities in hospitality, retail, and administration, with typical casual wages around A$25–30 per hour. Always check your visa conditions regarding work rights, as they are subject to change.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Sydney's central business district, both in New South Wales (NSW). Campus 1: Castlereagh St Campus – Level 5, 245 Castlereagh St, Sydney NSW 2000. Campus 2: Level 13, 338-340 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200,000 international students and more than 500 CRICOS-registered providers. Both campuses are near major transport hubs (e.g., Town Hall and Central stations), making them accessible by train, bus, and light rail. The city offers diverse cultural experiences, world-class amenities, and a high standard of living. Studying in Sydney provides opportunities to network with students from over 100 countries, enhancing language practice and global connections.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: enrolling in a full-time CRICOS-registered course, maintaining satisfactory attendance, and holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires applicants to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity must cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student, per Department of Home Affairs), and OSHC. Process: receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd, then lodge a visa application online. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for General English (Pre-Intermediate) at Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – use our course finder to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Sydney). Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution – check entry requirements (e.g., English test scores), prepare required documents (passport, academic transcripts), and submit your application before the deadline. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For current fees and start dates, visit Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd's official website.
Sydney is Australia's leading destination for ELICOS, with over 200 English language providers and a vibrant international student community. The city's cost of living is higher than the national average: expect weekly rent of A$300–500 for a studio, A$70–100 for groceries, and A$40–60 for public transport. However, student work rights (48 hrs/fortnight) can offset some expenses. Public transport includes trains, buses, ferries, and light rail, with discounted Opal card fares for students. Beyond the classroom, Sydney offers free attractions like the Royal Botanic Garden, Bondi Beach walks, and cultural festivals. Studying here means constant exposure to English, from casual chats with locals to group projects. The ESOS Act ensures your rights are protected, including access to complaints handling and tuition assurance. With 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, Sydney stands out for course choice and lifestyle.
Ready to improve your English in Sydney? Start your application today with Australian Institute of English Pty Ltd—a CRICOS-registered provider. Explore more courses or visit our student visa guide for next steps.
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General English (Pre-Intermediate) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Institute of English 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.