General English (CRICOS course code 113074J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Learning Lab Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This program is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. As an ELICOS course under the field of Language and Literature, it focuses on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in a supportive classroom environment. Learning Lab Pty Ltd is a CRICOS-registered provider (03576B) located in the heart of Sydney, offering students access to a vibrant multicultural city with over 200 CRICOS-registered institutions. Whether you aim to progress to further study or enhance your career prospects, this course provides a solid foundation in English communication.
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General English (CRICOS course code 113074J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Learning Lab Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). The course falls within the field of Society and Culture, specifically Language and Literature (ELICOS), and is designed for non-native English speakers. Students will engage in comprehensive language instruction covering grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational fluency. While no specific syllabus is prescribed, typical ELICOS programs at this level aim to bring students from elementary to upper-intermediate proficiency, enabling them to communicate effectively in everyday situations. Learning Lab Pty Ltd is a private provider registered on CRICOS (03576B), ensuring compliance with Australian Government standards for international education. All international students are protected by the ESOS Act, which guarantees quality education and consumer rights.
As an ELICOS program, General English focuses on building practical language skills. Students typically study modules covering listening comprehension, spoken interaction, reading for meaning, and written expression. The curriculum often includes real-world topics such as travel, work, and social interactions, helping learners gain confidence in using English in Australian contexts. While specific unit details are set by Learning Lab Pty Ltd, graduates can expect to improve their overall IELTS band score by at least one level by the end of the course. This field of education is ideal for students who plan to pursue further vocational or higher education studies in Australia, as strong English proficiency is a prerequisite for most courses.
The course runs for 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes full-time, typically 20 hours per week, with breaks aligning with the academic calendar. Learning Lab Pty Ltd may offer part-time or flexible options, but international student visa holders are generally required to maintain full-time enrolment. The single qualification structure means you focus entirely on English language development without additional vocational or academic subjects.
The indicative tuition fee for General English is A$19,800, with non-tuition fees of A$850 (including enrolment and material costs), giving an estimated total of A$20,650. Importantly, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For a single student, living costs in Sydney are estimated at around A$30,000 per year, covering accommodation (approx. A$350–A$550 per week for rent), groceries, and public transport. Always confirm current fees with Learning Lab Pty Ltd before applying, as prices are subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For General English, providers often accept students with lower proficiency, sometimes as low as IELTS 4.0 or equivalent. Prior academic qualifications may not be required, but students must demonstrate a genuine intention to study. Some providers offer internal placement tests to determine the appropriate starting level. If you do not meet the English requirement, pathway programs may be available. Contact Learning Lab Pty Ltd for specific entry criteria and any foundation options.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Ensure you understand your work rights and obligations under your Subclass 500 visa.
The course is delivered at Learning Lab Pty Ltd's campus located at 269 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a student population exceeding 250,000. The Sussex Street campus is in the central business district, close to public transport including Town Hall and Wynyard stations, and within walking distance of Darling Harbour. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, but the multicultural environment and job opportunities make it a popular study destination.
International students enrolled in General English are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, purchasing Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and showing sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2026, the cost of living for a single student is estimated at A$29,710 per year (excluding tuition). Visa conditions typically allow work rights as mentioned. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for General English at Learning Lab Pty Ltd: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is currently registered on CRICOS. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Submit your application to Learning Lab Pty Ltd with required documents (e.g., passport, English test scores, academic transcripts). Check specific entry requirements and application deadlines. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for GTE assessment, OSHC purchase, and financial evidence.
Sydney offers a dynamic study environment with world-class education, diverse culture, and abundant career opportunities. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, students can choose from thousands of courses. However, the cost of living is high — budget around A$30,000 per year for rent, food, and transport. The city's public transport network, including trains, buses, and ferries, makes commuting easy. Consider your personal preferences: if you thrive in a bustling, multicultural hub, Sydney is ideal. Otherwise, other Australian cities may offer lower costs and a quieter pace.
Ready to apply? Start your journey by researching CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy, then contact Learning Lab Pty Ltd for the latest entry requirements and fees.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Learning Lab 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.