General English – CRICOS Course 111787C

Course Overview

General English (CRICOS 111787C) is a Non AQF Award course offered by Durban International College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02915G), a private provider. The course is classified under Field of Education 091501 (ELICOS), focusing on language and literature. It runs for 52 weeks (1 year) with English as the language of instruction. There is no dual qualification or foundation study component. The course does not include a mandatory work component, but students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Delivery locations include Melbourne (VIC) and Adelaide (SA), giving students the choice of two vibrant Australian cities. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.

What You'll Study

This General English program is designed to develop your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills for everyday and academic contexts. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, typical ELICOS courses at this level cover grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and communication strategies. You'll practice real-life scenarios such as job interviews, social conversations, and academic discussions. The course aims to build confidence and fluency, preparing you for further study or work in Australia. As a non-AQF course, it doesn't lead to an Australian qualification but provides a solid language foundation. Graduates often progress into vocational or higher education programs. The teaching approach is interactive, with a focus on practical language use. Durban International College's experienced instructors guide you through structured lessons and activities to accelerate your learning.

Duration and Study Mode

The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Full-time study is expected, with English as the medium of instruction. It is a single qualification course — no dual awards. Classes are typically held on campus at the chosen delivery location. Students should plan for a full academic year of language study. The course can be completed in 52 weeks, though some students may choose to study additional ELICOS courses to further improve their English. The provider may offer flexible timetables, but the CRICOS registration confirms the standard duration. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment is a condition of the Student visa.

Fees (Indicative)

Tuition fees for General English (111787C) are indicative: A$11,000 for the full course. Non-tuition fees are approximately A$1,000, covering materials, administration, and other charges. The estimated total cost is A$12,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the provider — always check Durban International College's website (https://dic.edu.au/) for current fees. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges. In Melbourne, living costs (rent, food, transport) are around A$1,500–A$2,000 per month; Adelaide is slightly lower at A$1,200–A$1,800. OSHC costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year. The total budget for a year of study and living could be around A$30,000–A$35,000.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for General English vary by provider. For this course, Durban International College typically expects students to have a basic level of English, though no specific IELTS score is mandated for ELICOS courses. Many students enter with IELTS 4.0–5.0 or equivalent. Generally, for higher-level courses, English requirements range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0. Prior qualifications: You should have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12. This course is open to international students of all ages (usually 18+). No foundation or pathway programs are attached, but the provider may offer assessments to determine your starting level. Always confirm entry requirements directly with the college before applying.

Work Component

This course has no mandatory work component. It is purely academic language study. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and may change. It's important to balance work and study to meet your course requirements. The absence of a work component means the course focuses entirely on language development, with no internship or placement obligations.

Delivery Locations

The course is delivered at three CRICOS-registered locations: (1) DIC Melbourne Campus – 166-172 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC; (2) Level 1, Eastern Side, 128 Hindley Street, Adelaide SA; (3) Level 18, 45 Grenfell St, Adelaide SA. Melbourne is Australia's most diverse city with over 200,000 international students and 100+ CRICOS providers. Living costs are higher (approx. A$450–A$600 per week rent). Adelaide is smaller and more affordable (approx. A$300–A$450 per week rent), with a growing international student community. Both cities have excellent public transport. Students can choose the city that suits their lifestyle and budget.

Student Visa

To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work part-time (48 hours/fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks), and travel in and out of Australia. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, provide evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The ESOS Act protects your rights as a consumer. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to apply for General English at Durban International College: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Melbourne or Adelaide). Use the CRICOS register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check entry requirements (if any), prepare your English test scores or equivalent, and submit your application through the college's website (https://dic.edu.au/). Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the college issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE statement.

Is Melbourne or Adelaide Right for You?

Both cities offer excellent study environments. Melbourne is a global student hub with vibrant culture, extensive public transport, and a high cost of living. Adelaide is more relaxed, with lower living expenses and a close-knit community. Consider your budget, climate preference, and lifestyle. Melbourne has more ELICOS providers and job opportunities, while Adelaide offers a quieter experience. Your choice may also depend on future study plans – Melbourne has more universities, but Adelaide's institutions are also highly regarded.

Ready to improve your English in Australia? Start your application by researching CRICOS-registered providers like Durban International College. Visit their website at https://dic.edu.au/ for the latest course information and application details.

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