General English (CRICOS course code 116262C) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Riverton English Academy Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This course is designed for international students seeking to improve their English language proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. As an ELICOS program under the field of Society and Culture, it focuses on developing practical communication skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource to help you understand the course details, fees, and application process. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness.
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General English (CRICOS 116262C) is a Non AQF Award course classified under Field of Education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0915 Language and Literature, 091501 ELICOS. Delivered by Riverton English Academy Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04262A), a private provider, this course runs for 60 weeks (1 year 2 months). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual award, foundation studies, or VET national code. The course does not include a mandatory work component. General English programs typically cover everyday conversation, grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, preparing students for further study or work in English-speaking environments. HeadStart Academy notes that Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of many ELICOS options available. CRICOS registration guarantees that the provider meets Australian Government standards for delivering courses to international students, and the ESOS Act provides legal protections for enrolled students.
As an ELICOS program, General English at Riverton English Academy focuses on developing integrated language skills. Students typically learn through interactive classes covering listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The curriculum often includes real-life scenarios such as ordering food, making phone calls, writing emails, and participating in group discussions. Grammatical structures, idiomatic expressions, and cultural nuances are also emphasised. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates of ELICOS courses generally achieve a higher level of communicative competence, which can be a pathway to further academic study (e.g., Foundation or Diploma programs) or employment. Note that this particular course is not a direct pathway to university; students seeking academic preparation should consider Academic English programs. For precise curriculum details, always check with Riverton English Academy directly.
The course duration is 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification; no dual qualification is offered. Study mode is typically full-time, face-to-face at the provider's campus. The length of the course allows for gradual progress through language levels. Students should be prepared for a significant time commitment. HeadStart Academy advises that studying an ELICOS course of this duration can provide a solid foundation for future studies or work in Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for General English at Riverton English Academy is A$13,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$14,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the provider. Please note that fees are subject to change, and you must confirm current fees with Riverton English Academy before applying. Additional costs not included in this estimate are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge (currently A$710*). For cost of living in Brisbane (Fortitude Valley), indicative weekly expenses are: rent A$250–400, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$30–50. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting at least A$21,041 per year for living costs as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines.
Entry requirements for General English vary by provider. Typically, ELICOS courses do not require a high English level, but some basic proficiency may be needed. For this course, English language requirements likely range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the student's current level. Prior qualifications expected: generally, completion of Year 12 or equivalent. No foundation or pathway options are indicated for this course; however, students who complete General English may progress to other programs at the provider. Always check directly with Riverton English Academy for specific entry criteria. For visa purposes, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and provide evidence of financial capacity.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake work as part of the curriculum. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the study period and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights commence once the course starts. HeadStart Academy reminds students that working does not guarantee visa approval or waiver of course requirements.
The course is delivered at Level 1/2/3 266 Brunswick Street, FORTITUDE VALLEY QLD 4006, in the suburb of Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. Fortitude Valley is a vibrant inner-city suburb known for its nightlife, dining, and proximity to the Brisbane CBD. The campus is accessible via public transport, including trains at Fortitude Valley station and multiple bus routes. Brisbane is home to over 60,000 international students from more than 130 countries, with numerous CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Brisbane are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average rent for a shared room around A$250 per week. Studying in Fortitude Valley offers students a lively urban environment with many amenities. For more about studying in Queensland, see our Queensland page.
International students enrolling in General English at Riverton English Academy must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and a valid CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment). OSHC must be maintained for the entire visa period. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Visa application charge (as of 2026) is A$710. For application assistance, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in this course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use our site to filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (09 Society and Culture), and location (Fortitude Valley). Ensure you have met the entry requirements. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit an application to Riverton English Academy Pty Ltd, including evidence of English proficiency and academic qualifications. Check application deadlines and any required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Apply for the student visa through the Department of Home Affairs, attaching your CoE, OSHC evidence, and financial proof. Processing time varies; apply early.
Fortitude Valley offers a unique blend of student life and urban convenience. With its proximity to Brisbane's CBD, students have access to libraries, cafes, and cultural venues. The area has a high concentration of international students, fostering a multicultural environment. However, the cost of living in the Valley can be slightly higher than in outer suburbs. Consider your budget for rent and lifestyle when choosing accommodation. Public transport is excellent, with both train and bus networks. If you prefer a quieter study environment, you may want to explore other suburbs. HeadStart Academy recommends visiting the campus and exploring the neighbourhood before committing.
Ready to improve your English in Australia? Explore General English at Riverton English Academy and take the first step by applying through our easy three-step guide above. Check CRICOS registration and start your journey today.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Riverton English Academy 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.