General English (CRICOS course code 116183B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Orange English Pty Ltd over 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks). This ELICOS course is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency in a supportive, immersive environment. Delivered at the provider's campus in Melbourne's CBD, the course offers a comprehensive pathway to further study, work, or daily life in Australia. Indicative tuition fees are A$24,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,200, bringing the estimated total to A$25,200. Optional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application fees are additional. All institutions listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring they meet Australian Government quality standards. As of April 2026, Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses. This page provides detailed information to help you evaluate this course against your goals.
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General English (CRICOS 116183B) is classified under the field of education '09 Society and Culture – 0915 Language and Literature – 091501 ELICOS' as a Non AQF Award. This means it does not lead to an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) qualification but focuses on practical English language skills. The course is delivered by Orange English Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04259G), a private provider registered with the Australian Government. The program runs for 72 weeks (1 year 5 months) and is conducted entirely in English. It is a single qualification course with no dual or foundation study options and no mandatory work component. Students attend classes at Level 6, 416-420 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, in the heart of the city. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which ensures tuition assurance and quality standards.
As an ELICOS course, General English focuses on developing core language competencies: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students engage in interactive lessons that build vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation skills for everyday communication. The curriculum typically covers practical contexts such as social interactions, workplace scenarios, and academic preparation for those planning to progress to further study. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates of ELICOS programs generally gain confidence to use English in real-world situations. This course does not lead to an AQF award, but it provides a strong foundation for entry into vocational or higher education pathways. The provider may offer additional support for academic English or exam preparation on request. For detailed curriculum information, contact Orange English Pty Ltd directly.
The course duration is 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English on a full-time basis. Students attend classes at the Melbourne campus, typically with a mix of morning and afternoon sessions across the week. This is a single qualification course – no dual qualification or foundation studies are offered. The standard study load for student visa purposes is 20 contact hours per week, aligning with Department of Home Affairs requirements for the Student visa (Subclass 500). The course does not include a work component, but students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks under their visa conditions.
Tuition fees for General English are set by Orange English Pty Ltd and are indicative only, as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). The current tuition fee is A$24,000 for the full course. Non-tuition fees – including materials, administration, and student services – amount to approximately A$1,200. The estimated total cost is A$25,200. Important additional expenses not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – mandatory for all international students – typically costs A$500–A$700 per year for single cover; living costs in Melbourne average A$1,500–A$2,500 per month depending on lifestyle; and the visa application fee for Subclass 500 is currently A$1,700. Always confirm the latest fees directly with Orange English Pty Ltd before applying. Fees are subject to change, and the provider may offer payment plans or scholarships. Visit the provider's website for the most current information.
Entry requirements for General English are determined by Orange English Pty Ltd. As an ELICOS course, English proficiency is the primary criterion – typically, international students need an IELTS overall score between 5.5 and 7.0, or equivalent in other tests like TOEFL or PTE, depending on the course level. However, some providers accept students with lower scores for beginner levels. Prior qualifications: A minimum of Year 10 equivalent is often expected, though the provider may assess on a case-by-case basis. No foundation or pathway programs are offered as part of this course, but students with lower English levels may be directed to a preparatory program. There are no formal prerequisite subjects. The provider may require an interview or placement test to determine the appropriate class level. Contact Orange English Pty Ltd for specific entry criteria and to confirm your eligibility. Note: Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are limited.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake work placements, internships, or practical training as part of the curriculum. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) have work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled holiday periods. It is important to balance work with study commitments, as attendance and academic progress are visa conditions. For more details on work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent.
General English is delivered at Orange English Pty Ltd's campus located at Level 6, 416-420 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000. This location is in Melbourne's central business district, within walking distance of Flinders Street Station and multiple tram routes. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 200,000 international students from 170 countries. The city offers a vibrant multicultural environment and excellent public transport. Living costs in Melbourne range from A$1,500 to A$2,500 per month, including rent (A$1,200–A$1,800 for a one-bedroom apartment), groceries (A$400–A$600), and transport (A$150–A$200). There are over 150 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria, with a high concentration in Melbourne offering diverse courses. The Collins Street campus is in the heart of the financial district, providing easy access to libraries, cafés, and student services.
International students enrolling in General English will need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion – demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study; sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, OSHC, and dependents (minimum A$24,505 for living costs per year from February 2026); and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa duration. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After course completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. Visa applications are processed by the Department of Home Affairs. This information is a guide – always check the latest visa policies and consider consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Melbourne is an excellent choice for ELICOS students. The city is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, with a strong education sector. Studying General English in Melbourne immerses you in an English-speaking environment with opportunities to practise language in real-life settings. The city has a large international student community, so you'll find plenty of support services, language exchange groups, and cultural activities. Living costs are slightly lower than Sydney, with average weekly expenses around A$450–A$600. Public transport is efficient with trains, trams, and buses. Melbourne also offers pathway options to many vocational and higher education institutions, including universities like the University of Melbourne, Monash, and RMIT. However, consider your personal preferences: Melbourne's weather is variable, with cool winters and warm summers. The city is known for its arts, food, and sports culture, providing a rich backdrop for your study journey. Choosing an ELICOS course is a significant step – ensure the provider's location and teaching style align with your goals.
Applying for this course is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Society and Culture – ELICOS), and city (Melbourne). Confirm Orange English Pty Ltd (04259G) meets your preferences. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Orange English Pty Ltd's website (link on the CRICOS register) to find the application portal. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (if applicable), passport copy, and proof of financial capacity. Check application deadlines – many providers have intakes every month for ELICOS. Submit your application and pay any application fee. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: If accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include your CoE, OSHC policy, evidence of funds, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary – apply at least 8–12 weeks before your course starts. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Explore General English at Orange English Pty Ltd or contact the provider directly for the most up-to-date information. For more courses and resources, visit HeadStart Academy – your guide to studying in Australia.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Orange English 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.