General English (CRICOS course code 116312J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Sea English Academy International Pty Ltd over 1 year 4 months (~70 weeks). This ELICOS course, classified under Society and Culture, helps international students develop essential English skills for everyday communication, further study, or work in Australia. With campuses in Adelaide, Melbourne, Norwest, and Wollongong, this course offers flexibility and a supportive learning environment. All providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you study with an institution that meets Australian Government standards.
General English (CRICOS course code 116312J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Sea English Academy International Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03677G) over 1 year 4 months (~70 weeks). This course belongs to the field of Language and Literature (ELICOS) under Society and Culture. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. As an ELICOS program, it focuses on building English language proficiency across listening, speaking, reading, and writing, preparing students for further academic studies or professional environments. The course is delivered in English and does not include a work component. With campuses in South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria, students can choose a location that suits their lifestyle and study goals. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of many trusted options available.
As an ELICOS course in the field of Language and Literature, General English focuses on developing practical English communication skills. Students typically learn grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational strategies for everyday contexts. The curriculum also covers listening comprehension, reading for main ideas and details, writing paragraphs and short essays, and speaking with clarity and confidence. While the exact syllabus is set by Sea English Academy International Pty Ltd, ELICOS programs generally aim to help students achieve a level of English proficiency that meets the requirements for vocational or higher education courses in Australia. Graduates often go on to study at TAFE, university, or enter the Australian workforce with improved language skills.
The course duration is 1 year 4 months (~70 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study is full-time and conducted in English. This is a single qualification (Non AQF Award) with no dual qualification. Students are expected to attend classes regularly, complete assignments, and participate in language practice activities. The mode of delivery is on-campus at one of Sea English Academy's locations. Australia's education system follows the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), but this ELICOS course is not AQF-accredited; however, it is a recognised pathway for international students to improve their English and transition to other studies.
Indicative tuition fees for General English (116312J) are A$18,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,050, totalling an estimated A$20,050. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. HeadStart Academy recommends confirming current fees directly with Sea English Academy International Pty Ltd. The table below provides a breakdown:
| Fee Item | Amount (A$) | |----------|-------------| | Tuition | 18,000 | | Non-tuition | 2,050 | | Estimated Total | 20,050 |
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this ELICOS course, a lower level of English may be acceptable as the course itself is designed to improve proficiency. Prior qualifications expected: students should have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 10 or 11. Foundation or pathway options: if you don't meet the requirements, you may consider a pre-ELICOS program or contact the provider for advice. Always confirm specific entry criteria with Sea English Academy International Pty Ltd. As a general rule, international students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and have sufficient financial capacity.
No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. This provision allows students to gain work experience and supplement their living costs while studying.
General English is delivered at five Sea English Academy campuses across three states: - Adelaide Campus – ADELAIDE, SA - Adelaide Campus - Level 4 118 King William St ADELAIDE SA 5000 – ADELAIDE, SA - Head Office - Level 6 341 Queen St Melbourne – MELBOURNE, VIC - Norwest Campus – NORWEST, NSW - Wollongong Campus – WOLLONGONG, NSW
Adelaide is a vibrant city with a strong international student community, affordable living costs (weekly rent approx. $150–$250, groceries $80–$130), and excellent public transport. Melbourne offers cultural diversity and a bustling city lifestyle. Norwest and Wollongong in NSW provide suburban and coastal study environments. Each campus is easily accessible via public transport, and all are CRICOS-registered locations.
To study General English on a CRICOS-registered course, you will need 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) criteria, enrolment in a CRICOS course, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency (if required). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – for visa assistance, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to start your journey? Follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (Language and Literature), and city. Use HeadStart Academy's directory to compare providers like Sea English Academy.
2. **Apply directly to Sea English Academy International Pty Ltd**: Check entry requirements (English language test scores, academic history) and application deadlines. Submit your application online or through an education agent.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and proof of funds. See our student visa guide for details.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above or explore more courses in Society and Culture.
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General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sea English Academy International 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.