General English (CRICOS course code 110415F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Nortwest Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~58 weeks). This ELICOS course belongs to the field of Society and Culture (Field of Education code 091501) and is designed to develop practical English language skills for everyday, academic, and professional use. International students can study at four campuses across Sydney, Adelaide, and Melbourne. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03256G), Nortwest Pty Ltd meets Australian Government standards for delivering courses to overseas students. HeadStart Academy is a free, independent resource that helps you navigate study options in Australia. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
General English courses focus on building proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students also develop grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and communication strategies. At the ELICOS level, the course typically covers topics such as everyday conversations, workplace English, and academic preparation. While specific curriculum details are set by Nortwest Pty Ltd, graduates often achieve intermediate to upper-intermediate English proficiency, enabling them to pursue further studies or improve career opportunities. The course is delivered entirely in English to maximise immersion.
This General English course has a duration of 1 year 1 month (~58 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not dual), and it does not include a foundation studies component. Study mode is typically full-time on campus, though students should confirm with the provider. The extended duration allows for progressive skill development and cultural adjustment.
Tuition fees for General English at Nortwest Pty Ltd are A$18,560 (indicative). Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment or materials) are estimated at A$1,000, bringing the total to A$19,560. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current fees, visit the provider's website at www.nortwest.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For General English at the ELICOS level, minimum English proficiency is usually lower, such as IELTS 4.0–5.0 or equivalent. Prior qualifications: students should have completed Year 10 or equivalent. Foundation or pathway options: contact Nortwest Pty Ltd for details on bridging programs. Always check specific entry requirements on the provider's website.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component, so students can focus entirely on their English studies.
General English is delivered at four locations: - 531 George Street Sydney, NSW - Adelaide Campus, SA - Level 2, 77-79 York St, Sydney NSW 2000 - Melbourne Campus, VIC
Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers. Adelaide and Melbourne also have vibrant international student communities. All campuses are accessible by public transport.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Conditions include: maintain enrolment, attend classes, and meet attendance requirements. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, hold OSHC health cover, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to enrol in General English at Nortwest Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm Nortwest Pty Ltd is listed (CRICOS 03256G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – check entry requirements (including English test scores), prepare documents, and submit your application by the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, use the CoE to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
If you want to improve your English for further study, work, or daily life in Australia, General English is a flexible option. It suits students who need to build foundational skills before moving to academic English or vocational training. Consider your goals: do you need English for university (IELTS 6.0+) or just for communication? The course duration of 58 weeks allows for significant progress. Also factor in living costs: Sydney is more expensive (weekly rent approx. A$350–500) than Adelaide (A$250–350) or Melbourne (A$300–450). HeadStart Academy's free tools help you compare cities and providers.
Ready to start your General English journey? Explore your options on HeadStart Academy and apply today.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Nortwest 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.