General English (CRICOS course code 098438D) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Ruby Institute Pty LTD over 1 year 6 months (~76 weeks). This course is designed to improve English language proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. As an ELICOS program under field 091501, it focuses on developing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Ruby Institute is a private CRICOS-registered provider (03723G) located in the heart of Melbourne's CBD at 234-250 Collins Street. The indicative tuition fee is A$20,890 with no additional non-tuition fees. All CRICOS-registered courses like this one are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026—free of commission or referral fees.
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General English (CRICOS 098438D) is a Non AQF Award course offered by Ruby Institute Pty LTD (CRICOS 03723G). It falls under the field of education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0915 - Language and Literature (ELICOS). This course is intended for international students seeking to improve their English language skills for further study, work, or daily life in Australia. The duration is 1 year 6 months (76 weeks), delivered entirely in English. The course is a single qualification with no dual or foundation component. There is no mandatory work component. Delivered at the provider's Melbourne campus at Suite 1, Level 7, 234-250 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, students can access all the amenities of Melbourne's central business district. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for an Australian student visa (Subclass 500). With over 1,500 CRICOS-providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, the system provides extensive choice for international students.
This General English course is classified under ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), which means the curriculum focuses on developing English proficiency across all key areas: listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar. Students typically learn to communicate effectively in everyday situations, academic contexts, and professional environments. While the specific syllabus is determined by Ruby Institute, ELICOS programs generally aim to improve fluency, accuracy, and confidence. The course level is Non AQF Award, indicating it does not lead to a formal Australian qualification but provides foundational language skills. This is ideal for students who need to meet English requirements for further study or for personal development. Melbourne, as a major study destination, hosts hundreds of CRICOS providers, making it a vibrant centre for language learning. Students at Ruby Institute benefit from being in a diverse, multicultural environment.
The course duration is 1 year 6 months, or 76 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification—no dual or concurrent enrolment. The study mode is typically full-time, face-to-face delivery at the provider's campus. Students should expect regular classes and independent study. The duration allows for gradual skill development over six semesters or equivalent terms. As this is a Non AQF Award, it does not count towards a subsequent degree but can serve as a pathway to further study if the provider offers articulation. The long duration is suitable for students starting from beginner or intermediate levels. Melbourne's public transport network, including trains, trams, and buses, provides easy access to the Collins Street campus.
Tuition fee: A$20,890 (indicative). Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total cost: A$20,890. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution—always confirm directly with Ruby Institute before applying. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For 2026, OSHC costs approximately A$630 per year for singles, and living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$25,000–30,000 per year, including rent (A$300–500 per week for shared accommodation), groceries, and transport. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting at least A$25,000 annual living costs as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines. Visit the provider's website (www.ruby.vic.edu.au) for the most current fee schedule.
English language requirements vary by provider—typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For General English, Ruby Institute may accept students with lower English proficiency, as the course itself aims to improve English. Prior qualifications: No formal academic prerequisites are expected for a Non AQF Award at this level. However, students must meet the minimum age requirement (usually 18) and provide evidence of sufficient funds. Some providers may require a placement test. Foundation or pathway options: Ruby Institute may offer progression to other courses; check directly with the provider. International students must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria for their visa. Always confirm specific entry requirements with the institution before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you are generally allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights commence once the course starts. Students should ensure work does not interfere with their studies.
This course is delivered at: Suite 1, Level 7, 234-250 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. This prime location in Melbourne's CBD provides access to world-class public transport, shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Melbourne has over 400,000 international students and more than 200 CRICOS providers offering thousands of courses. The city is known for its vibrant student life, multicultural community, and relatively lower living costs compared to Sydney. Typical weekly rent for a share house in the inner city is A$300-500, with groceries around A$80-120 and a monthly myki pass for unlimited public transport at about A$170.
This course is registered on CRICOS, making it eligible for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). As a student visa holder, you must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient funds (tuition + living costs + airfares), and have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) before applying. For full visa details, consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered migration agent (MARA).
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and location (Melbourne). Compare Ruby Institute with other providers. Step 2: Apply directly to Ruby Institute. Check entry requirements (English test, age, prior qualifications) and submit your application with required documents. The provider will assess your eligibility and may conduct a placement test. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once Ruby Institute issues the CoE, you can lodge your visa application online via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC and meet financial capacity requirements.
Ready to apply? Research CRICOS-registered ELICOS courses in Melbourne on HeadStart Academy today.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Ruby Institute 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.