General English Beginner to Pre-Intermediate (CRICOS course code 098468J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by IIPM Pty Ltd over 34 weeks (~8 months). This course is designed for international students who want to build foundational English skills for everyday communication, study, or work in Australia. As an ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) program, it falls under the field of Society and Culture. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. IIPM Pty Ltd is a CRICOS-registered provider (03594M) with campuses in Gosnells, WA, and Melbourne, VIC. Whether you aim to improve your English for further study or personal development, this course offers a structured pathway to progress.
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General English Beginner to Pre-Intermediate is classified under Field of Education 091501 - ELICOS, within Society and Culture (09). ELICOS courses focus on developing English language proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. At the beginner to pre-intermediate level, students typically learn basic grammar, vocabulary, and conversational skills to navigate everyday situations. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates generally gain the confidence to communicate in simple contexts and can progress to intermediate levels. This course is ideal for students with little to no prior English experience who want to build a strong linguistic foundation. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, quality standards are maintained under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive appropriate support.
The course runs for 34 weeks (approximately 8 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English only. This is a single qualification (no dual award). Students attend full-time classes, typically 20 hours per week, though the exact timetable is set by IIPM Pty Ltd. The duration allows for gradual language acquisition with ample practice. Being a Non AQF Award, it does not lead to a formal qualification but prepares students for further study or employment.
Tuition fees for General English Beginner to Pre-Intermediate are indicative at A$9,900 for the full course. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For example, living costs in Melbourne are around A$20,000–A$25,000 per year, while Perth is slightly lower. Always confirm current fees directly with IIPM Pty Ltd at www.iipm.edu.au. HeadStart Academy provides these figures as a guide only.
English language requirements vary by provider. For ELICOS courses at this level, IIPM Pty Ltd typically expects applicants to have minimal English; some providers require IELTS 5.5–7.0 for higher levels, but for beginner courses, no formal English test may be needed. Academic entry requirements are generally a high school completion or equivalent. Foundation or pathway options are available — refer to IIPM for details. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa. HeadStart Academy recommends checking directly with the provider for exact prerequisites.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students holding 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. However, the course itself does not include a work placement or internship. Focus remains on language learning.
IIPM Pty Ltd delivers General English Beginner to Pre-Intermediate at three locations: 2318 Albany Highway, Gosnells, WA (in the Perth metropolitan area); Level 4, 382 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC; and Level 5 440 Elizabeth Building, Melbourne, VIC. Gosnells is a suburban area about 20 km southeast of Perth's CBD, with access to public transport. Melbourne's city campuses are centrally located near train stations and tram lines. Melbourne has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, while Western Australia has a strong education sector with approximately 100 providers. Both cities offer diverse student communities, cultural activities, and part-time work opportunities.
Perth and Melbourne are both popular study destinations but differ in cost of living, climate, and lifestyle. Perth is generally more affordable: weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $300–$450, while Melbourne averages $400–$600. Both cities have excellent public transport. Melbourne is larger with more cultural events, while Perth offers a relaxed outdoor lifestyle. For ELICOS students, proximity to campus and English-speaking practice opportunities are key. Consider your budget, weather preference, and long-term goals. All CRICOS-registered providers, including IIPM, must comply with ESOS Act protections, so you can study with confidence.
International students studying this course on a full-time basis are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (approx. $21,041 per year as of 2026), and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. Visa conditions vary – always check the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in General English Beginner to Pre-Intermediate at IIPM Pty Ltd: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy's free database to filter by course level, field, and city. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – prepare your documents (passport, academic records, English test if required) and submit to IIPM. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and budget for living expenses.
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General English Beginner to Pre-Intermediate is a CRICOS-registered programme at IIPM 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.