General English (Elementary to Advanced) (CRICOS course code 098026B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Choice Business College Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This ELICOS course is designed for international students who want to improve their English language skills from elementary to advanced levels. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider CRICOS 03444C), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. Students study English language and literature at the 091501 level, focusing on communication, reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The course is offered at three locations in Sydney and Melbourne, providing flexibility for students. Whether you're preparing for further study, work, or everyday life in Australia, this program builds confidence and proficiency. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you have access to quality education. Data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) gives you reliable information to make an informed decision.
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General English (Elementary to Advanced) (CRICOS 098026B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Choice Business College Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). The course sits within the Society and Culture field of education (0915 Language and Literature, specifically ELICOS). It is designed to take students from a beginner level through to advanced English proficiency, covering all four macro-skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. As an ELICOS program, it does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but provides a solid foundation for further study or employment. The course is single qualification, not dual or combined. All instruction is in English. There is no mandatory work component. With 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia offering over 26,000 courses, this course is one of many English language options available to international students. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no commission or referral fees — helping you navigate the CRICOS register.
This General English course covers the field of Language and Literature, specifically English language education for overseas students. Students will study grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural contexts. The curriculum typically progresses through levels: Elementary, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, Upper-Intermediate, and Advanced. At each level, students develop practical communication skills for academic, social, and professional settings. Activities include group discussions, presentations, writing tasks, and listening exercises. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a specific syllabus (contact Choice Business College for details), graduates of such courses generally achieve improved fluency and accuracy in English. The course is designed to prepare students for further study (e.g., vocational or higher education) or to meet English requirements for migration purposes. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring your rights as an international student are safeguarded.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 60 weeks (1 year 2 months). Students are expected to attend full-time, with approximately 20-25 contact hours per week. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual awards or foundation studies included. The course is not a VET program (N/A). Study modes may include face-to-face classroom learning at the provider's campuses. Duration includes scheduled breaks. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Always confirm exact study schedules directly with Choice Business College.
Tuition for General English (Elementary to Advanced) is A$12,000, with non-tuition fees of A$800, giving an estimated total of A$12,800. These figures are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Choice Business College Pty Ltd and subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fees, please visit the provider's website at www.cbc.edu.au. As a general guide, living costs in Sydney are approximately A$600–$1,000 per week (rent, food, transport), and in Melbourne around A$500–$900 per week. These are estimates only. Always budget for your entire stay in Australia.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. However, for ELICOS courses, many providers accept students with no prior English proficiency. Choice Business College may have its own placement test. Prior qualifications: No specific academic prerequisites for this Non AQF Award. Foundation or pathway options: not applicable. Refer to the provider for exact entry criteria. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the institution directly for the most up-to-date entry requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions and the Department of Home Affairs rules. Work rights do not form part of the course.
The course is delivered at three campuses: Level 6, 541 Kent St, Sydney NSW 2000; Level 7, 541 Kent St Sydney NSW 2000; and Melbourne Campus, St Kilda, VIC. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200,000 international students and excellent public transport (trains, buses, light rail) connecting the Kent Street location. Melbourne's St Kilda campus is near the city centre, with tram and train access. Both cities offer vibrant student communities, diverse cultures, and ample part-time work opportunities. Living costs are higher in Sydney, but both cities provide world-class amenities and support services for international students.
International students studying this course on a full-time basis are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live and study in Australia for the duration of the course plus additional time. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain enrolment, attendance, and course progress. You are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs ($21,041 per year for a single student as of 2026), and travel. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. ESOS Act protections ensure you receive a refund for course fees if the provider fails to deliver.
Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. For this course, check that Choice Business College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03444C) is still registered on the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Contact Choice Business College to confirm entry requirements, submit your English test (if required), and meet application deadlines. Provide all necessary documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once you have your CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy provides this guide as a free resource, but always verify details with the provider and official sources.
Sydney is a top destination for international students, with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a diverse population, iconic landmarks, and a strong job market. Weekly rent for a shared apartment in the city centre is approximately $350–$600, with groceries around $100–$150 and a weekly transport ticket about $50. However, Melbourne also offers excellent options, with a slightly lower cost of living and a famous coffee culture. Both cities have ample public transport. Consider your budget, desired lifestyle, and campus location. The Kent Street campuses in Sydney are in the heart of the CBD, close to Central Station and the University of Sydney precinct. St Kilda in Melbourne is a beachside suburb with a relaxed vibe. HeadStart Academy helps you compare locations and providers to find the best fit.
Ready to start your English journey? Compare similar courses or contact Choice Business College for more details.
General English (Elementary to Advanced) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Choice Business 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.