General English (Elementary to Advanced Level) (CRICOS course code 098274G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by SMEAG AUSTRALIA PTY LTD over 1 year. This ELICOS course is designed for international students seeking to improve their English proficiency from elementary to advanced levels. It falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' (0915 Language and Literature). Delivered at three locations in Victoria – two campuses in Melbourne's CBD and one in Mildura – the course provides flexibility for students choosing between a metropolitan and regional study experience. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03718D), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolments. Tuition is A$16,000 (indicative), with no non-tuition fees. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), covering 26,433 courses across Australia.
This course is classified under ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), targeting language acquisition from elementary through advanced levels. Students develop skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, along with grammar and vocabulary. The curriculum typically includes real-world communication tasks, preparing learners for further academic study or professional environments. While the specific syllabus is set by SMEAG AUSTRALIA PTY LTD, graduates of ELICOS programs often achieve a level of English sufficient for entry into vocational or higher education courses. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and ELICOS remains a popular pathway for students aiming to meet university English requirements.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual awards). Students typically attend full-time face-to-face classes at one of the three delivery locations. Part-time study is not permitted under the student visa conditions for ELICOS courses. The standard 20–25 hours per week of scheduled classes allows for ample self-study and exploration of the local area.
Tuition is A$16,000 for the full 52-week course. Non-tuition fees are A$0, so the estimated total is A$16,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are indicative only – always confirm directly with the provider at their official website: https://brightenglish.vic.edu.au/. Note that costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are not included. For Melbourne, living costs (rent, groceries, transport) are approximately A$400–A$600 per week; in Mildura the cost is lower, around A$300–A$450 per week. These are estimates and vary by lifestyle.
English language requirements vary by provider. For this course, SMEAG AUSTRALIA PTY LTD may require IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on the target level, or equivalent test scores. Since it is an ELICOS course, students may start at a lower level and progress. Prior qualifications: there is no formal academic prerequisite, as the course covers elementary to advanced levels. Some providers may require completion of Year 10 or equivalent for visa purposes. Foundation or pathway options: refer to the provider for specific arrangements. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee entry; always check with the institution.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship element. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is offered at three campuses in Victoria: Level 1, 318 King Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Melbourne CBD); MEL-CBD Queen St Campus, Melbourne VIC (also in the CBD); and Shop 2, 840 Fifteenth St, Mildura VIC 3500. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 200,000 international students and excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses). Mildura is a regional city in northwestern Victoria with a smaller student population, lower living costs, and a warm climate. Both locations offer unique study experiences – metropolitan or regional. Victoria has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration, and evidence of sufficient funds. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act protects students' rights, including refund policies and course quality. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa matters.
Follow these three steps to enrol in General English (Elementary to Advanced Level) at SMEAG AUSTRALIA PTY LTD: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify SMEAG's registration (03718D) and ensure the course code 098274G is current. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Melbourne or Mildura). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, submit English test scores (if applicable), and meet application deadlines. Contact SMEAG via their website (https://brightenglish.vic.edu.au/) for the application form and fee details. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use it to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
Choosing between Melbourne and Mildura depends on your preferences. Melbourne offers a bustling multicultural city with endless cultural activities, but higher living costs (approx. A$500/week for rent). Mildura provides a quieter regional lifestyle, lower costs (approx. A$350/week rent), and strong community feel. Both have public transport, but Melbourne's network is extensive. Consider your English learning goals: a metropolitan environment may offer more opportunities for conversation practice, while regional settings can foster closer connections with classmates and teachers.
Explore more ELICOS courses on HeadStart Academy or contact SMEAG Australia directly via their website.
General English (Elementary to Advanced Level) is a CRICOS-registered programme at SMEAG AUSTRALIA 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.