General English Levels 1-6 (CRICOS course code 116709K) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Western Star Academy Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This ELICOS program, classified under field of education 091501, is designed to help international students build foundational English skills for further study, work, or everyday life in Australia. Western Star Academy, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 04260C), offers this course at its campus in North Sydney, New South Wales. With indicative tuition fees of A$18,000 and non-tuition fees of A$1,200, the estimated total cost is A$19,200. As with all courses on HeadStart Academy, data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. Whether you aim to progress to vocational or higher education, or simply improve your English, this course provides a structured pathway.
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This course belongs to the field of Society and Culture (09) and specifically Language and Literature (0915), under the ELICOS category (091501). ELICOS programs focus on developing English language proficiency across listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students typically learn grammatical structures, expand vocabulary, and practice communication in real-world contexts. Levels 1-6 cater to beginners through upper-intermediate learners, with each level building on the previous one. While the exact syllabus is determined by Western Star Academy, graduates generally gain the confidence to engage in academic or professional environments where English is the primary language. It's important to note that this is a Non AQF Award, meaning it does not align with the Australian Qualifications Framework, but it serves as a crucial stepping stone for students who need to meet English prerequisites for further study or visa purposes.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 78 weeks (1 year 6 months). The course is delivered in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes full-time at the North Sydney campus. The program is structured to allow steady progression through six levels, with assessments at the end of each level. As an international student, you must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress to comply with student visa conditions. The single qualification focus ensures you can dedicate your efforts to mastering English without concurrent vocational or higher education commitments.
Tuition fees for General English Levels 1-6 are A$18,000 (indicative). Non-tuition fees, which may include enrolment, materials, and administration charges, are A$1,200. The estimated total cost is A$19,200. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included in this figure. Living costs vary by city; in Sydney, indicative weekly expenses are approximately A$450–600 for rent, A$80–150 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport. Always check the latest fees with Western Star Academy directly, as they are subject to change. You can visit their website at www.westernstaracademy.edu.au for the most current information. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that sources data from the CRICOS register but does not set fees.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. However, for General English Levels 1-6, which is an ELICOS program, the entry requirement is usually a lower level of English (e.g., IELTS 4.0 or equivalent) as the course itself is designed to improve English from a beginner level. Prior qualifications expected: students generally need to have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Year 10 or 11 in Australia. Foundation or pathway options: if you do not meet the English level, some providers offer preliminary courses; consult Western Star Academy for specific arrangements. Always verify requirements directly with the institution. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is not part of the course but can help cover living costs. Remember that work must not interfere with your studies.
This course is delivered only at: North Sydney — North Sydney, NSW. North Sydney is a vibrant business district on the Lower North Shore of Sydney, with excellent public transport links via train, bus, and ferry. The area is close to the Sydney CBD, offering students access to libraries, cafes, and cultural amenities. Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large student population. Living in North Sydney provides a quieter study environment while still being minutes from the city centre. Indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment in North Sydney is around A$350–500.
International students enrolling in General English Levels 1-6 must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Western Star Academy, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, evidence of genuine temporary entrant (GTE), and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. From 1 July 2023, the cost of living requirement is A$21,041 per year (excluding tuition). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited during scheduled holidays. You must maintain enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and academic progress. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Choosing where to study is a big decision. North Sydney offers a balanced lifestyle: proximity to the Sydney Harbour, parks, and a strong business community. It's less bustling than the CBD but still offers many services. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, you have many options. However, if you prefer a study environment near beaches and with easy city access, North Sydney is a great choice. Consider your budget: Sydney's cost of living is higher than other Australian cities. Also, think about transport — the North Sydney train station is on the North Shore line, providing rapid access to the CBD in 10 minutes. HeadStart Academy helps you explore all options; we are a free resource listing 26,433 courses.
Ready to improve your English? Visit Western Star Academy's website or contact them directly to apply. HeadStart Academy helps you find CRICOS-registered courses like this one — explore more options today.
General English Levels 1-6 is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Star 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.