General English (CRICOS course code 099477M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Universal English Pty Ltd over 1 year 4 months (~70 weeks). This course is designed to help international students improve their English language proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. As an ELICOS program (Field of Education 091501), it develops skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking within a communicative and practical framework. Universal English Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03750D) is a private provider based in Melbourne, Victoria, with two delivery locations in the central business district. The indicative tuition fee is A$24,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$550, bringing the estimated total to A$24,550. The course is taught entirely in English and does not include a work component. To enrol, students must meet the provider's English language requirements, which typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 depending on the course level. Melbourne is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offering international students a vibrant and diverse study environment. At HeadStart Academy, we provide trusted information sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you compare courses and make informed decisions. Remember, all listed institutions are CRICOS-registered and covered by ESOS Act protections.
General English (CRICOS course code 099477M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Universal English Pty Ltd over 1 year 4 months (~70 weeks). This course is part of the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) field, specifically under Field of Education 091501 - Language and Literature. As a non-award course, it does not lead to a formal qualification but provides essential English language training for personal or academic advancement. Universal English Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03750D) is a private education provider registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. The course is offered only in Melbourne, Victoria, at two campus locations. Students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, which guarantee tuition fee protection and quality assurance. HeadStart Academy sources all course data from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, so you can trust the accuracy of the information presented here.
As an ELICOS program, General English focuses on developing practical English language skills across all four macro-skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students engage in communicative activities that build vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The curriculum typically includes everyday conversation, academic English preparation, and exposure to Australian cultural contexts. While specific syllabus details are set by Universal English Pty Ltd, ELICOS courses at this level aim to help learners reach a level of proficiency that enables effective communication in English-speaking environments. The course may also incorporate study skills and independent learning strategies to prepare students for further study or employment. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and ELICOS programs like this one are a common pathway for international students to meet university entry requirements.
This General English course is recorded on the CRICOS register as lasting 1 year 4 months, equivalent to approximately 70 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual qualification). It is not classified as a VET course, so no VET national code applies. Students should expect a full-time study load, which is a requirement for maintaining a Student visa (Subclass 500). The course does not include any mandatory work component. Melbourne, where the course is delivered, is a major international student hub with excellent public transport, including trams, trains, and buses, providing easy access to both campus locations.
The indicative tuition fee for General English at Universal English Pty Ltd is A$24,000, as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees, which may include application or administrative charges, are listed at A$550, bringing the estimated total to A$24,550. Please note that these fees are indicative and set by the institution; they are subject to change without notice. This total does not include other essential costs for international students: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. Always confirm the current fees directly with Universal English Pty Ltd by visiting their website at http://www.universalenglish.edu.au. For a guide to living costs in Melbourne, you can refer to HeadStart Academy's location resources.
English language requirements vary by provider, but for General English courses at this level, providers often expect a minimum IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 7.0, depending on the course level and outcomes. Prior qualifications typically include completion of secondary schooling or equivalent. Because this is a non-award course, students may not need specific academic prerequisites beyond English proficiency. Universal English Pty Ltd may have its own placement test to determine appropriate entry level. If you do not meet the English requirements, the provider may offer pathway options such as pre-sessional English. For definitive entry criteria, contact Universal English Pty Ltd directly. Remember, all international students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa application.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There are no work placements, internships, or vocational placements as part of the General English program. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work right is separate from the course itself and does not count toward study requirements. Students should ensure their study schedule allows sufficient time for learning commitments.
General English is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria, both within the central business district: Level 3 131 Queen St Melbourne, and UE Campus Level 2 131 Queen St Melbourne. These campuses are situated in the heart of Melbourne, a city known for its multicultural population and high concentration of international students. Melbourne has over 250,000 international students and more than 100 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) and a vibrant student lifestyle. Indicative living costs in Melbourne: weekly rent A$300–$500 for shared accommodation, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport about A$50 per week. Use HeadStart Academy's state page for Victoria to explore more study options.
International students enrolling in General English will need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Universal English Pty Ltd, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover. Living costs for a single student are currently A$21,041 per year (official Department of Home Affairs estimate). The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). HeadStart Academy provides general visa guidance, but we are not a registered migration agent. For personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Melbourne is one of Australia's most popular study destinations, known for its world-class education, cultural diversity, and vibrant city life. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia (as at April 2026), Melbourne alone hosts hundreds of institutions offering thousands of courses. The city consistently ranks among the world's most livable, with excellent public transport, food, arts, and sports. For an international student, the cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney but higher than regional areas. Weekly expenses can range from A$300–$500 for rent (shared), A$80–$150 for groceries, and A$30–$50 for transport. Studying General English in Melbourne allows you to improve your English while experiencing Australian culture firsthand. However, consider your personal preferences: if you prefer a quieter lifestyle or lower costs, regional Victoria might be a better fit. Use HeadStart Academy's location guides to compare cities.
Follow these three steps to apply for General English at Universal English Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers - Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (Universal English Pty Ltd is CRICOS 03750D).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution - Check entry requirements (English language test scores, academic documents) and application deadlines. Submit your application to Universal English Pty Ltd via their website (http://www.universalenglish.edu.au) or through a registered education agent.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) - Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE, which is required for your visa application. Prepare documents: passport, CoE, OSHC, financial evidence, GTE statement. Lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to improve your English? Start your journey by researching CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy today.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Universal English 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.