General English (CRICOS course code 092102K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Milestone English Academy Pty Ltd over 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks). This ELICOS course falls under the field of Society and Culture (0915 - Language and Literature) and is designed for international students seeking to improve their English proficiency in a supportive, immersive environment. Milestone English Academy, a private CRICOS-registered provider (03496B), delivers this course at its campus in Carlton, Victoria — a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne known for its diverse student community and close proximity to the University of Melbourne and RMIT. Whether you aim to enter further study, enhance your career prospects, or simply gain confidence in English, this course offers a structured pathway to language mastery. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student rights.
General English (CRICOS course code 092102K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Milestone English Academy Pty Ltd over 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks). This course is part of the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) category, which is designed to help non-native speakers develop practical English skills for academic, professional, or social purposes. The course is registered under the field of education 0915 - Language and Literature, specifically 091501 - ELICOS. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification, but it provides a solid foundation for further study or employment. Milestone English Academy is a private institution with CRICOS registration 03496B, ensuring it meets Australian government standards for delivering courses to international students.
The General English curriculum typically covers all four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with a strong emphasis on grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Classes are interactive and task-based, encouraging students to use English in real-life contexts such as discussions, presentations, and group projects. Depending on the provider's syllabus, you may also explore Australian culture, idioms, and academic language to prepare for further study. While HeadStart Academy does not provide specific lesson plans, ELICOS courses generally follow a structured progression from beginner to advanced levels, with regular assessments to track improvement. Graduates of General English often go on to enroll in vocational or higher education courses, or use their enhanced language skills in the workplace.
This course has a duration of 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Students study full-time in English, attending classes at the provider's campus. The course is delivered as a single qualification with no dual award. As an ELICOS course, it is typically offered in multiple intake periods throughout the year, allowing flexibility for students to start at their convenience. The intensive nature of the program (usually 20+ hours per week) ensures rapid language acquisition. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa conditions.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, are as follows: tuition A$21,600, non-tuition fees (e.g., enrollment, materials) A$300, and an estimated total of A$21,900. Please note these fees are set by Milestone English Academy Pty Ltd and are subject to change. The total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for a single student. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$21,000–A$27,000 per year, covering accommodation, food, and transport. Always confirm the latest fees directly with Milestone English Academy before applying.
Entry requirements for General English vary by provider. Typically, students need to demonstrate English proficiency at the level the course is offered — for example, IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on the starting level (e.g., intermediate, upper-intermediate). Some providers may also accept TOEFL, PTE Academic, or completion of a prior English program. In addition, applicants should have completed secondary education (Year 12 or equivalent) to ensure they can engage with the curriculum. For students who do not meet the English requirement, many providers offer pathway programs or lower-level General English courses. Always check with Milestone English Academy for their specific entry criteria and any foundation options.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work is not part of the course curriculum but can help offset living costs and provide valuable Australian work experience. Students must ensure that work does not interfere with their study commitments.
The course is delivered at Level 1, 252 Lygon Street, Carlton VIC 3053. Carlton is a lively inner-city suburb of Melbourne, known for its Italian heritage, bustling cafes, and proximity to the University of Melbourne and RMIT. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trams along Lygon Street and buses to Melbourne Central Station. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers operate across Australia, with Victoria home to more than 200. Melbourne itself has a thriving international student community of over 150,000, making it a popular choice for study. Living costs in Carlton are varied, with shared accommodation averaging A$200–A$350 per week and studio apartments A$350–A$500 per week. Groceries and transport add around A$150–A$200 per week.
To study this course in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, maintain genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). With a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. You must also demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, travel, and dependent expenses. The Department of Home Affairs sets financial requirements — currently at least A$21,041 per year for living costs (as of 2025). Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world's most livable cities, offering a multicultural environment, world-class education, and a vibrant arts scene. With over 150,000 international students, the city boasts excellent infrastructure for English language learners, including libraries, conversation clubs, and affordable public transport. The cost of living in Melbourne is moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–A$400. Transport costs are capped at A$10 per day with myki. However, the city's variable weather and competitive accommodation market may be challenges. Consider your personal preferences for lifestyle, budget, and climate when deciding. HeadStart Academy provides a free resource to help you compare ELICOS courses across Australia, all CRICOS-registered and ESOS-protected.
Follow these three steps to apply for General English at Milestone English Academy Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Victoria) to find courses like 092102K. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Contact Milestone English Academy to confirm entry requirements (including your English test score and prior qualifications) and submit your application by the deadline. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa through the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet all financial, GTE, and OSHC requirements.
Ready to start your English journey in Australia? Explore Milestone English Academy or compare other ELICOS courses on HeadStart Academy.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Milestone English Academy 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.