General English: Elementary to Upper Intermediate (CRICOS course code 112488F) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd over 48 weeks (~11 months). This ELICOS course is designed for international students aiming to improve their English proficiency from elementary to upper intermediate levels. Imperial Education Group, trading as Ironwood Institute, is a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03039E) based in Adelaide. As a CRICOS-registered course, 112488F meets Australian Government standards and qualifies international students for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Studying ELICOS in Adelaide gives you access to a vibrant student community with over 60,000 international students from more than 130 countries. The city offers a relatively low cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly costs around A$350–A$500 for rent, groceries, and transport. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that uses official CRICOS data from April 2026 to help you compare courses and providers.
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This course falls under the field of education 091501 - ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), within the broader Society and Culture category. ELICOS courses focus on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English. At the elementary to upper intermediate levels, you will build foundational grammar and vocabulary, improve pronunciation, and gain confidence in everyday communication. Learning outcomes typically include the ability to follow conversations, write simple texts, and express opinions on familiar topics. While this is a general English program and not strictly academic, it provides a strong stepping stone for further study at vocational or higher education levels. Many students use ELICOS to meet English language entry requirements for other courses. Imperial Education Group's curriculum is designed to help you progress through structured levels, with regular assessments to track improvement.
According to the CRICOS register, General English: Elementary to Upper Intermediate runs for 48 weeks (approximately 11 months). Instruction is in English, the language of instruction for all ELICOS courses. This is a single qualification course — it does not lead to a dual qualification or foundation studies. Full-time study is expected, which aligns with Student visa requirements. The course is delivered in a classroom setting at the provider's location. For international students, maintaining satisfactory attendance is essential for visa compliance. The ESOS Act protects your rights as a student, including access to tuition assurance if your provider fails to deliver.
Course fees shown are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd. Always confirm current fees with the provider before enrolling.
Additional costs not included: - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): approximately A$500–A$700 per year - Living expenses: A$21,041 per year (Department of Home Affairs guideline) - Visa application charge: A$1,600
Imperial Education Group may offer payment plans or discounts. Visit their website at www.ironwood.edu.au for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
General English courses typically have lower entry barriers than academic programs. For this Elementary to Upper Intermediate level, English language requirements vary by provider. Imperial Education Group may require a minimum English proficiency demonstrated through an IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the starting level. Alternatively, an internal placement test may be accepted. Prior academic qualifications are not usually required beyond completion of secondary schooling equivalent to Year 10 or 12 in Australia. Foundation or pathway options are available through the provider for students who need additional language support before progressing to vocational or higher education. Since this is an ELICOS course, students can also use it to prepare for IELTS or other English tests. Always verify specific entry requirements directly with Imperial Education Group.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs. The ESOS Act ensures that your study remains the primary purpose of your visa. If you seek employment, remember that work rights are a visa condition and not a course requirement.
Rundle Mall Adelaide — Adelaide, SA. This campus is located in the heart of Adelaide's central business district, at the iconic Rundle Mall shopping precinct. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, known for its affordable living, strong student community, and easy access to public transport. The city has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, with many offering ELICOS and other programs. Studying at this location means you can enjoy a vibrant urban environment while being close to parks, beaches, and cultural events. Public transport including buses, trams, and trains connects the campus to all parts of the city and suburbs.
To study General English: Elementary to Upper Intermediate as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Imperial Education Group - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement - Evidence of sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel) - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay - English proficiency evidence if required by the Department of Home Affairs
Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice. For personal visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Adelaide is Australia's fifth-largest city, home to over 1.3 million people, including a large international student population. The cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne — typical weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$150–A$250, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$50–A$70. Adelaide has a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters. The city is known for its festivals, food, and wine regions. With over 60,000 international students, you'll find a supportive community. ELICOS students benefit from small class sizes and dedicated support services. However, consider that Adelaide has fewer ELICOS providers than Sydney or Melbourne, so options may be more limited. HeadStart Academy can help you compare all available ELICOS courses in South Australia.
Follow these three steps to enrol in General English: Elementary to Upper Intermediate at Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter ELICOS courses in Adelaide. Compare fees, duration, and provider ratings. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring they meet Australian standards.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements on Imperial Education Group's website (www.ironwood.edu.au) or contact their admissions team. Submit your application with required documents (passport, academic transcripts, English test results if needed). Deadlines may vary — apply early.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, Imperial Education Group will issue a CoE. Use this to file your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, financial, and OSHC requirements. For visa help, engage a registered migration agent (MARA).
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above or contact Imperial Education Group directly for the latest fees and intake dates. Use HeadStart Academy's free tools to compare courses across Australia.
General English: Elementary to Upper Intermediate is a CRICOS-registered programme at Imperial 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.