General English (CRICOS course code 115610G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Massey College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~58 weeks). This ELICOS course, classified under field of education 091501, is designed to equip international students with practical English skills for everyday communication, further study, or professional purposes. Offered at the Lonsdale Street Campus in Melbourne’s CBD, it provides a supportive environment to improve reading, writing, listening, and speaking. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards of the Australian Government and qualifies international students to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Prospective students should note that this is a single qualification with no mandatory work component. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, finding the right program is easier with our free, unbiased resource.
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General English (CRICOS course code 115610G) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Massey College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~58 weeks). This course sits within the Society and Culture field of education, specifically ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). It aims to develop students' English proficiency in all four macro skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—as well as grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. While not leading to a formal Australian qualification, successful completion can prepare students for further academic study or employment in English-speaking environments. Massey College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03939B) is a private institution registered to deliver this course. The indicative tuition fee is A$20,300, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, totaling approximately A$21,300. Note that fees are indicative and subject to change; always confirm directly with the provider. This course is delivered at the Lonsdale Street Campus in Melbourne, Victoria.
As an ELICOS course (field 091501), General English focuses on building foundational and intermediate language skills. Typical learning outcomes include improved ability to understand and produce spoken and written English in everyday contexts, enhanced grammatical accuracy, and expanded vocabulary. Students engage in interactive classes that simulate real-life situations, such as ordering food, making phone calls, or writing emails. Courses often incorporate group discussions, presentations, and project-based tasks to foster communication confidence. While the exact syllabus is determined by Massey College, ELICOS programs generally adhere to the standards set by the National ELT Accreditation Scheme (NEAS) or similar quality frameworks. Graduates may use this course as a stepping stone to vocational or higher education programs, as many institutions accept General English completion for direct entry into further studies, subject to meeting specific English language requirements. Note that this course does not include a work component.
The General English course has a duration of 1 year 1 month, equivalent to 58 weeks on the CRICOS register. It is typically offered as a full-time program, with classes conducted multiple days per week. The language of instruction is English throughout. This is a single qualification, not a dual award or foundation studies program. Students should expect a structured timetable that balances classroom learning with self-study. The longer duration allows for gradual language development, making it suitable for beginners or those seeking thorough preparation before advancing to academic English or vocational courses. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, attendance and progress requirements must be met to maintain visa compliance.
Indicative tuition fees for General English at Massey College Pty Ltd are A$20,300, with non-tuition fees (such as application or materials fees) estimated at A$1,000, bringing the total to approximately A$21,300. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. The provider sets actual fees, so it is essential to verify current charges directly with Massey College. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For context, living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$30,000 per year for a single student, including rent, food, and transport. Always budget for these extras. Visit the Massey College website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
English language requirements for General English courses vary by provider and course level. Typically, providers like Massey College may require an IELTS score between 5.5 and 7.0 overall, depending on the intended level of study. However, since this is a general English program, some students start with lower proficiency and progress through levels. Prior academic qualifications: most ELICOS courses accept students who have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 10 or 11. No specific prior qualification in English is required, but a placement test may determine the starting level. Foundation or pathway options: Refer to Massey College for details on articulation into vocational or higher education programs. Note that meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the institution assesses each application individually. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. While enrolled, students may be eligible to work part-time under their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work is separate from the course requirements and must not interfere with study obligations.
General English is delivered at the Lonsdale Street Campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is a vibrant, multicultural city with a large international student population—over 200,000 students from around the world. The city is home to more than 2,000 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options. The Lonsdale Street Campus is centrally located, with easy access to public transport (trains, trams, buses), shops, and accommodation. Living costs in Melbourne are relatively high but manageable: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$200–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60. Students can also explore part-time work opportunities to offset expenses. Is Melbourne right for you? Consider your preference for a bustling urban environment, proximity to beaches and cultural attractions, and access to a supportive international community.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course (like this one), sufficient English proficiency (unless exempt), genuine access to funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for health insurance. Financial capacity: you must show you can cover tuition, living expenses (at least A$29,710 per year for a single student, as of 2025-26), OSHC, and travel. Visa processing times vary; check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised guidance. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, safeguarding your tuition fees and ensuring education quality.
Follow these three steps to apply for General English at Massey College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Non AQF Award), field (ELICOS), and city (Melbourne). Compare providers and check CRICOS registration. 2. Apply directly to Massey College – Visit the provider's website to review entry requirements, submit an application, and provide evidence of English proficiency (if required). Application deadlines may vary. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Then submit your visa application online with all supporting documents, including OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Allow ample time for processing.
Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities, thanks to its vibrant arts scene, diverse food culture, and excellent public transport. For international students, the city offers a rich cultural experience alongside quality education. With over 2,000 CRICOS-registered providers, Melbourne has options for every study level and budget. However, consider the cost of living: rent is among the highest in Australia, though affordable suburbs exist near campuses. The climate is temperate, with cool winters and warm summers. The city is well-connected, with trams covering the CBD and suburbs. If you prefer a dynamic urban environment with plenty of social and professional opportunities, Melbourne could be an ideal choice. HeadStart Academy can help you explore more courses and providers in Victoria.
Ready to improve your English in Melbourne? Browse more ELICOS courses on HeadStart Academy or contact Massey College directly for application details.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Massey College 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.