General English - Starter to Advanced (CRICOS course code 093611C) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Scots English College Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~80 weeks). This ELICOS course (Field of Education: 0915 - Language and Literature) is designed for international students seeking to improve their English proficiency from beginner to advanced levels. Scots English College, a CRICOS-registered private provider (03497A), operates campuses in Eveleigh and Haymarket, Sydney. As an English language course, it prepares students for further study, work, or daily life in Australia. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) brings you this information sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your education is protected under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia offers abundant options for international students.
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General English - Starter to Advanced (CRICOS course code 093611C) is a comprehensive English language program that caters to learners at all proficiency levels, from absolute beginners (Starter) through to Advanced. Administered by Scots English College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03497A), this Non AQF Award falls under the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) category. The course is not a dual qualification nor a foundation studies program, and it carries no VET national code. With a duration of 80 weeks (1 year 6 months) of full-time study delivered in English, students can expect substantial language development. The indicative tuition fee is A$21,000 with no additional non-tuition fees, totalling A$21,000 — but please note these are indicative only and subject to change. HeadStart Academy recommends always checking the provider’s website for the most current fee information. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, and all CRICOS-registered courses meet Australian government quality standards.
This ELICOS course covers the field of '0915 - Language and Literature' and focuses on developing English language skills across listening, speaking, reading, and writing. As a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to an Australian qualification but rather provides a pathway for students to achieve English proficiency for further study, employment, or migration purposes. Typical learning outcomes include improved grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and communication skills tailored to real-life contexts. The course is structured into levels from Starter to Advanced, allowing students to progress at their own pace. While HeadStart Academy does not provide specific syllabus details, Scots English College will offer a structured curriculum aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Graduates will be equipped to take English proficiency tests such as IELTS or PTE, if needed for future endeavours.
According to the CRICOS register, General English - Starter to Advanced runs for 1 year 6 months, which equates to approximately 80 study weeks. The mode of study is full-time, conducted entirely in English. This is a single qualification course without any work component, meaning students focus solely on their language studies. The duration is typical for ELICOS programs targeting comprehensive English development from beginner to advanced levels. Language of instruction is English, and international students should be prepared for immersive learning. If you need a shorter program, consider other ELICOS options available on HeadStart Academy.
Indicative tuition for General English - Starter to Advanced is A$21,000, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, making the estimated total A$21,000. However, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For international students, OSHC is mandatory and costs approximately A$500–$600 per year depending on coverage. Living costs in Sydney are significant: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$300–$500, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$30–$50. The Department of Home Affairs recommends students budget at least A$29,710 per year for living costs (as of 2026). Fees are set by providers and subject to change; always confirm with Scots English College directly. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and recommends consulting a MARA agent for visa-related financial requirements.
Entry requirements for General English - Starter to Advanced vary by provider, but since this is an English language course, there are no specific academic prerequisites. However, for international students, an English language test score may be required to determine the starting level. Typically, ELICOS providers ask for IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on the course level, but since this course starts from Starter, even students with limited English can apply. Some providers may require a minimum of IELTS 4.0 for elementary levels. Prior qualifications expected: none, as this is a Non AQF Award. Foundation or pathway options: if you need to meet a higher English level for other courses, this program can serve as a pathway. Always check with Scots English College for their specific requirements. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; official entry conditions are set by the institution.
General English - Starter to Advanced has no work component. This means the course does not include mandatory work experience, internships, or placements. Students are, however, eligible to work under the student visa conditions: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. Work rights provide valuable experience and income support but are not tied to the course.
Scots English College delivers General English - Starter to Advanced at two campuses in Sydney, New South Wales: - Bay 3 - 2 Locomotive St, Eveleigh NSW 2015 (Eveleigh, NSW) - CBD Campus, Haymarket NSW 2000 (Haymarket, NSW)
Sydney is Australia’s largest city with over 250,000 international students and more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers. Eveleigh is a vibrant inner-city suburb near the University of Sydney and public transport; Haymarket is in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, close to Chinatown and Central Station. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with studio apartments renting for $400–$600 per week. Both campuses offer easy access to buses, trains, and light rail. HeadStart Academy helps you compare study locations across Australia.
International students enrolling in this course typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion: demonstrate genuine intention to study in Australia. - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): mandatory health insurance for the duration of your stay. - Financial capacity: proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. - English proficiency: may be required unless the course itself is English language training. As of 2026, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. HeadStart Academy provides general visa guidance; for specific advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to study General English - Starter to Advanced at Scots English College: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Scots English College (CRICOS 03497A) offers the course you need. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, especially English test scores if needed, and submit your application with required documents (e.g., passport, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency). Scools English College will assess your application and issue a Letter of Offer. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Accept the offer, pay the deposit, and the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online. Ensure you have OSHC and meet financial requirements. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and not affiliated with any provider; all data is from the official CRICOS register.
Sydney is Australia’s most iconic study destination, offering world-class education, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, students have immense choice. However, living costs are high: rent averages $500–$700 per week for a one-bedroom apartment, and public transport costs around $40–$50 weekly if you travel frequently. Part-time work can help offset expenses, and student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight. Sydney also has excellent public transport connecting all campuses. If you prefer lower costs, consider other Australian cities like Adelaide or Brisbane. HeadStart Academy helps you compare locations to find your ideal study environment.
Ready to improve your English? Start by researching CRICOS-registered ELICOS providers on HeadStart Academy. Compare courses, costs, and locations — all free of charge. Your journey to Australia begins here.
General English - Starter to Advanced is a CRICOS-registered programme at Scots English 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.