General English Level 1 (CRICOS course code 096453K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd over 11 weeks. This course is designed for international students seeking to build foundational English language skills in a supportive classroom environment. As part of the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) field, it falls under the broad category of Society and Culture (Field of Education 091501). Whether you aim to improve your everyday communication, prepare for further study, or simply gain confidence in English, this course provides a structured pathway. HeadStart Academy uses data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to bring you accurate, up-to-date information. All listed providers, including Central Australian Institute of Technology, are CRICOS-registered, ensuring that your enrolment is protected under Australia’s ESOS Act. This page covers fees, entry requirements, locations, and visa guidance to help you make an informed decision.
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General English Level 1 (CRICOS course code 096453K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd over 11 weeks. The course is classified under the field of Education 091501 ELICOS, which focuses on language and literature. As an entry-level English program, it is ideal for students who have little or no prior English language training. The course aims to develop basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, enabling students to communicate in simple, everyday situations. It does not lead to a formal Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) award, but it can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level English courses or vocational study. Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd is a private provider (CRICOS 03217C) with multiple campuses across Australia. The indicative tuition fee is A$2,530, with non-tuition fees of A$450, bringing the estimated total to A$2,980. These fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register; always confirm with the provider.
The General English Level 1 curriculum introduces students to fundamental English language structures and vocabulary. Typical learning outcomes include understanding and using familiar everyday expressions, introducing oneself and others, and asking and answering basic questions about personal details. Graduates of this level may be able to interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly. The course covers all four macro-skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with an emphasis on practical communication. Classroom activities often include role-plays, simple dialogues, and basic comprehension tasks. While HeadStart Academy does not provide the specific syllabus, the general aim of ELICOS courses at this level is to build confidence and a foundation for further language development. Students should expect a supportive environment with plenty of opportunities for practice. The course is delivered entirely in English, immersing students in the language from day one.
The course runs for 11 weeks (11 weeks as per the CRICOS register). It is a single qualification course, meaning it is not part of a dual award or combined program. The language of instruction is English. Students attend classes on a full-time basis, typically requiring 20 hours of face-to-face study per week. This structure satisfies the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The course does not include a work component, but students are encouraged to utilise their work rights (48 hours per fortnight during study periods) to gain local experience and improve language skills. The cohort size is generally small to allow for personalised attention. Delivery locations vary across four campuses in Hobart, Brisbane, Footscray West, and Melbourne. Each location offers access to public transport, making commuting feasible for international students.
The indicative tuition fee for General English Level 1 is A$2,530. Additional non-tuition fees total A$450, bringing the estimated overall cost to A$2,980. These fees are set by Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd and are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: fees are indicative and subject to change. Always confirm the current fees directly with the provider. The estimated total does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year, while living expenses in Australia are about A$21,041 per year according to Department of Home Affairs guidelines. Accommodation costs vary by city: in Hobart, average weekly rent is around A$200–A$350; in Melbourne, A$250–A$450; in Brisbane, A$200–A$400; and in Footscray (Melbourne suburb), similar to Melbourne. Budgeting for groceries and transport will add to the overall cost. For the most accurate and up-to-date fee information, visit the provider's website: [Central Australian Institute of Technology](https://www.cait.edu.au) (hypothetical).
English language requirements for General English Level 1 vary by provider, but typically for an entry-level ELICOS course, no prior IELTS score is required. However, some providers may ask for a minimum proficiency test score to place you at the correct level. For this provider, it is best to check directly. Prior qualifications: this course is open to students who have completed secondary education in their home country. There are no specific academic prerequisites. Foundation or pathway options: While this course itself is a Non AQF Award, it may serve as a pathway to further study. Refer to the provider for details on progression to General English Level 2 or other vocational courses. Students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa application. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider's entry requirements page or contacting their admissions team for the most current criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. This allows students to gain work experience and supplement their living expenses. Employment should not interfere with study commitments. Students must also maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress to retain their visa.
General English Level 1 is delivered at four campuses of Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd: 45 Murray Street, Hobart, TAS (Hobart, Tasmania); Central Australian College - Brisbane CBD, Suite 1 Level 1 345 Ann St, Brisbane City QLD 4000 (Brisbane, Queensland); Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd, Footscray West, VIC (Footscray, Victoria); and Level 1, 276 Flinders Street, Melbourne, VIC (Melbourne, Victoria). Each location offers easy access to public transport and local amenities. Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and is known for its affordable living costs and friendly community. Brisbane, Queensland’s capital, hosts over 400 providers and boasts a subtropical climate. Melbourne, a major student hub, has over 500 providers and is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. Footscray is a multicultural suburb close to Melbourne’s city centre. When choosing a campus, consider factors such as climate, living costs, and the size of the international student community. For more on study locations, see our [Tasmania guide](/states/tas) and [Society and Culture courses in Hobart](/study/society-and-culture/hobart).
International students enrolling in General English Level 1 require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time at a CRICOS-registered provider, work part-time (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during holidays), and travel in and out of Australia. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs sets the financial capacity benchmark at A$29,710 per year (from October 2024) for a single student (tuition not included). Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Central Australian Institute of Technology will be required when applying. For detailed visa information, visit our [Student Visa Subclass 500 guide](/visa/student-visa-subclass-500) and [OSHC page](/visa/oshc-health-cover). Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey at Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to explore ELICOS courses like General English Level 1. Filter by course level, field (Society and Culture), and city to find programs that match your goals. Check the provider’s CRICOS status and course details.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Once you’ve selected Central Australian Institute of Technology, visit their website or contact their admissions team. Submit the required documents, including proof of English proficiency (if needed), academic transcripts, and a copy of your passport. Ensure you meet the entry requirements and clarify any questions about start dates.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: After acceptance, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for the GTE statement, financial evidence, and OSHC arrangements. Once granted, you can travel to Australia and commence your course.
If you are an international student looking to improve your English language skills before undertaking further study or employment, a General English course can be an excellent foundation. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, including a wide range of ELICOS programs. When choosing a location, consider factors like climate, cost of living, and the size of the international community. For example, Hobart offers a more relaxed lifestyle with lower living costs, while Melbourne and Brisbane provide vibrant city experiences with diverse student populations. Regardless of location, remember that all CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you compare options without referral fees.
Ready to start your English journey? Compare ELICOS courses on HeadStart Academy and apply to Central Australian Institute of Technology today.
View the full Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd profile →
General English Level 1 is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Australian Institute of Technology 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.