General English (CRICOS course code 116802B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Nithi College Pty Ltd over 1 year 5 months (~74 weeks). This course is designed to develop practical English language skills for everyday communication, study, and work. It is part of the ELICOS field (Language and Literature) and is ideal for international students aiming to improve their English proficiency before pursuing further studies or employment in Australia. With a total indicative tuition fee of A$18,000 and A$900 in non-tuition fees, this program offers a comprehensive pathway to English fluency. Nithi College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03953D) is a registered private provider committed to quality education for overseas students. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are verified against the official CRICOS register, ensuring you access trustworthy information.
General English (CRICOS 116802B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Nithi College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03953D) over 74 weeks (1 year 5 months). The course is classified under Field of Education 091501 (ELICOS), focusing on Language and Literature. Students develop proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English, preparing them for academic, professional, or social contexts. As a Non AQF Award, this program does not lead to a nationally recognised qualification but provides foundational language skills essential for further study or work in Australia. The course is delivered in English, with no dual qualification or work component. This is a common pathway course for international students seeking to meet English entry requirements for higher education.
Graduates of General English courses typically achieve improved fluency, accuracy, and confidence in using English across various contexts. Core areas include listening comprehension, spoken interaction, reading for meaning, and writing for different purposes. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, ELICOS programs generally follow the Australian ELICOS standards, covering grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural communication. Students engage in interactive lessons, group discussions, and real-world tasks to build practical skills. The course is designed to bridge the gap between current English ability and the level required for further study or employment.
The course runs for 1 year 5 months (~74 weeks). According to the CRICOS register, the duration is 74 weeks. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (non-dual). There is no foundation studies designation. Students are expected to attend classes full-time at the campus location. The course is not offered online; it requires on-campus attendance at ILLOURA College in Cannington, Western Australia.
Tuition fee: A$18,000. Non-tuition fees: A$900 (this may include enrolment, materials, and administrative costs). Estimated total: A$18,900. These fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. They are subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm directly with Nithi College Pty Ltd via their website (www.illoura.edu.au). Living costs in Perth (near Cannington) are around A$1,400–A$1,800 per month for rent, food, and transport.
English language requirements vary by provider. For General English, there is usually no minimum IELTS score as the course itself improves English; however, some providers require basic proficiency. Typically, for ELICOS programs, students may need IELTS 5.5 or equivalent for intermediate levels, but entry level can be as low as beginner. Prior qualifications are generally not required for Non AQF Award courses at this level. Foundation or pathway options are available for students aiming to progress to higher education—refer to Nithi College for specific articulation arrangements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at ILLOURA College, 113 Wharf St, CANNINGTON WA 6107. Cannington is a suburb in Perth, Western Australia. Perth is home to over 300 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. The campus is accessible via public transport, including train and bus services. Living costs in Perth are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–A$300.
International students enrolling in General English (116802B) typically require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity to cover fees and living costs, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependents may have work rights as per visa conditions. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. For visa advice, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Western Australia offers a sunny climate, affordable living, and a growing economy. Perth has a multicultural population and a strong education sector with over 200 CRICOS providers. For ELICOS students, Perth provides a supportive environment to practice English in a less crowded city compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Consider your preferred lifestyle, climate, and access to part-time work. Cannington is well-connected to Perth's CBD and offers shopping, dining, and recreational facilities.
Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers like Nithi College Pty Ltd (03953D) and compare ELICOS courses. HeadStart Academy's free database covers 26,433 courses. 2. Apply directly to Nithi College. Check entry requirements (English level), prepare supporting documents, and note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa help, use a registered MARA agent.
Explore more ELICOS courses or contact Nithi College directly via their website for current information.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Nithi 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.