General English (CRICOS course code 110264E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Prime Education Group Pty Ltd over 1 year 4 months (~70 weeks). This course falls under the field of Education and training in Society and Culture, specifically ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). It is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. Prime Education Group Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03905A) is a private provider registered with the Australian Government to offer courses to overseas students. As a CRICOS-registered institution, it meets the high standards required under the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights are protected. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026, covering 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses. HeadStart Academy is a free resource—no commissions, no referral fees—to help you find and compare courses.
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This General English course is classified under the field of Language and Literature (0915) and specifically ELICOS (091501). While the exact curriculum is designed by Prime Education Group, ELICOS programs typically develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills across a range of proficiency levels. Students engage in interactive classes that focus on grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and communication strategies. The course aims to build confidence in using English in everyday situations and prepare students for further study or employment in English-speaking environments. It is a non-award course, meaning it does not lead to a formal qualification but provides a pathway to other programs or improved English competency.
The course duration is 1 year 4 months (~70 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English across both campuses. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes on a full-time basis, as is standard for student visa holders. The duration allows for intensive language development over multiple terms.
Tuition fees for General English are set by Prime Education Group Pty Ltd. According to the CRICOS register, the indicative tuition fee is A$18,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$350, bringing the estimated total to A$18,350. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. These fees are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Always confirm the latest fees directly with Prime Education Group before applying.
Entry requirements for General English vary by provider. Generally, for ELICOS courses, providers may require a minimum English proficiency level, often assessed by an internal placement test. While some courses have no formal academic prerequisites, students should have a basic understanding of English. For higher-level courses, an IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 may be required for progression into academic programs. Prime Education Group will assess your English level upon application. Prior qualifications expected: typically completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Foundation or pathway options: contact the provider for details on articulation into further study.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students on 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.
This course is delivered at two locations in Victoria: Carlton Campus in CARLTON, VIC, and Suite 2 Level 6 190 Queen Street, MELBOURNE VIC 3000. Both campuses are in the city of Melbourne, a vibrant student hub with over 100,000 international students from around the world. Melbourne is home to dozens of CRICOS-registered providers across all study levels. The cost of living in Melbourne is estimated at A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport—though this varies. Public transport is excellent, with trams and trains connecting campuses to the city centre.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs, English proficiency (unless exempt), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). As a student visa holder, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, including this one.
Follow these three steps to apply for General English at Prime Education Group Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Melbourne). Compare courses and confirm CRICOS registration.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your documents (passport, academic transcripts, English test results if required). Meet entry requirements and submit your application to Prime Education Group. Check their website for application deadlines and processes.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online, including OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top destination for international students. It consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, Melbourne alone hosts hundreds of institutions. The city offers a diverse cultural scene, excellent public transport, and a strong economy. If you're considering General English in Melbourne, you'll join a large community of English learners. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent averaging A$300–A$500 for shared accommodation. Consider your study goals, budget, and lifestyle preferences when choosing.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above to start your General English journey at Prime Education Group.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Prime Education Group 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.