General Academic English (CRICOS course code 094050A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd over 44 weeks (~10 months). This ELICOS programme is designed to equip international students with the English language skills necessary for academic study in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03127E), it adheres to the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality and consumer rights. At HeadStart Academy, we provide unbiased, data-driven information to help you make informed decisions about your study in Australia. Whether you're aiming to improve your English for further studies or personal development, this course offers a structured pathway. Let's dive into the details.
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General Academic English (CRICOS course code 094050A) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd over 44 weeks (~10 months). This course falls under the field of education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0915 - Language and Literature, and is classified as ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). It is designed to prepare students for academic environments by improving reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03127E) with delivery locations in Adelaide, South Australia, and Docklands, Victoria. This course does not lead to a dual qualification or foundation studies, and it has no work component. As a Non AQF Award, it does not sit within the Australian Qualifications Framework but is widely recognised by Australian institutions for meeting English language entry requirements.
The General Academic English course belongs to the field of Language and Literature, focusing on English language proficiency for academic purposes. Students typically engage in intensive language training covering academic writing, critical reading, lecture comprehension, oral presentation, and research skills. While the exact syllabus is set by Kaplan Higher Education, ELICOS programmes generally follow the ELICOS Standards, which emphasise communicative competence and academic readiness. Graduates often achieve the English level required for direct entry into vocational or higher education programs. It's important to note that the course content is tailored to prepare students for the linguistic demands of Australian study environments, including understanding academic conventions and producing coherent essays and reports.
The course duration is 44 weeks (~10 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered entirely in English. This is a single qualification course – no dual award is offered. The study mode is full-time, typically consisting of 20-25 contact hours per week, plus self-study. Students should be prepared for a rigorous schedule that accelerates language acquisition. The CRICOS duration is a key factor for student visa eligibility, as it determines the length of your CoE and visa grant.
The indicative fees for General Academic English are as follows: tuition fee A$22,000, non-tuition fees A$1,340, and estimated total A$23,340. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change at the institution's discretion. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website directly. As a guide, living costs in Adelaide are generally lower than in larger cities like Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a studio around A$250-350 and groceries around A$80-120. In Docklands (Melbourne), weekly rent for a similar property is about A$350-500.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Non AQF Award such as this, lower scores may be accepted, but specific entry criteria are set by Kaplan Higher Education. Prior qualifications expected for this level: generally completion of senior secondary schooling or equivalent. Some students may need to complete foundation or pathway options if they do not meet academic entry requirements – refer to the provider for details. It is essential to directly confirm entry requirements with Kaplan Higher Education before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is not part of the course assessment.
General Academic English is delivered at three locations: (1) 132 Grenfell St, Adelaide – Adelaide, SA; (2) Level 5, 370 Docklands Drive, Docklands 3008 – Docklands, VIC; (3) Level 9, 68 Grenfell Street, Adelaide, South Australia 5000 – Adelaide, SA. The two Adelaide locations are in the city centre, easily accessible by public transport (trams and buses). Adelaide has a vibrant student community, hosting over 30,000 international students across multiple CRICOS-registered providers. The Docklands campus, near the Melbourne CBD, is well-connected by train and tram. Melbourne has a larger international student population of over 200,000. Both cities offer excellent study environments with diverse cultural experiences.
International students enrolling in General Academic English will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Important conditions include: maintaining adequate OSHC, demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent, and having sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for General Academic English at Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city) – compare courses on HeadStart Academy. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution (meet entry requirements, submit English test scores, observe application deadlines). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs.
Both Adelaide and Docklands (Melbourne) offer unique advantages. Adelaide is known for its lower cost of living, friendly atmosphere, and growing international student community. With over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, students have ample choice. The city's public transport includes free tram zones in the CBD. Melbourne's Docklands area is modern and close to the city centre, with excellent infrastructure but higher living costs. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals when choosing a location. Both cities provide safe environments with strong student support services.
Ready to start your academic English journey? Explore more courses or contact Kaplan Higher Education directly for the latest information.
General Academic English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Kaplan Higher 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.