General English (CRICOS 115358C) at Sunbeam International College

What you'll study

This General English course falls under the field of education 091501 – ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). At this level, students typically focus on building foundational to intermediate English skills across listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The curriculum often includes practical tasks such as everyday conversation, comprehension of written texts, paragraph writing, and pronunciation exercises. While specific syllabus details vary by provider, graduates generally gain enough confidence to communicate in common social and workplace situations. This course does not lead to an Australian qualification but serves as a stepping stone to further academic study or employment.

Duration and study mode

The course runs for 1 year and 4 months (~70 weeks), as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English only. This is a single qualification course, not a dual or combined award. Study mode is likely full-time on-campus, but students should confirm delivery mode directly with Sunbeam International College. The duration includes scheduled breaks, during which students may work unlimited hours under their student visa conditions.

Fees (indicative)

Tuition fees are indicative at A$21,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,200 (covering materials, administration, etc.). The estimated total is A$22,200. This does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor living costs or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website: sunbeam.edu.au. Fees are set by the institution and may change. HeadStart Academy data comes from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

English language requirements vary by provider; for this level, typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course. Prior qualifications may be required, such as completion of Year 11 or equivalent. For General English, no specific prior knowledge is usually required, but a placement test may determine the starting level. Foundation/pathway options: refer to Sunbeam International College for bridging programs. Always verify with the provider.

Work component

No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, as a full-time student, you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to your student visa conditions (Subclass 500).

Delivery locations

This course is delivered at the Burwood Campus in BURWOOD, NSW. Burwood is a vibrant suburb in Sydney's inner west, known for its multicultural community and excellent transport links. It is well-connected by train and bus to the Sydney CBD (just 20 minutes by train). The area offers a range of student-friendly amenities, including affordable eateries, libraries, and recreational facilities. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, and living costs in Burwood are moderate: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–350, groceries A$80–120, and a public transport weekly ticket about A$40–50.

Student visa (Subclass 500)

This course qualifies international students for a Student visa (Subclass 500). With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an overseas student. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.

How to apply for General English at Sunbeam International College

Follow these three steps to begin your study journey: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. Confirm that Sunbeam International College (CRICOS 03951F) offers the course you need. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet the entry requirements (including English test scores if required) and submit your application before the deadline. Check sunbeam.edu.au for application forms and required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa, including health cover and evidence of financial capacity.

Study in NSW – Is this state right for you?

New South Wales, particularly Sydney, is Australia's most popular destination for international students, with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across the state. The Burwood campus offers proximity to Sydney's job market, cultural diversity, and world-class facilities. However, living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average – expect around A$500–700 per week in total living expenses. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences. NSW also has excellent public transport and student support services. Whether you choose NSW depends on your study goals, career plans, and personal preferences.

Ready to enrol? Visit Sunbeam International College at sunbeam.edu.au for current fees and application details.

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