General English Beginner (CRICOS course code 117120J) is a Non AQF Award delivered by International Institute (Aust) Pty Ltd over 30 weeks (~7 months). This ELICOS course is designed for students with little to no prior English experience, building foundational skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03445B), it meets the standards of the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections. Located in the vibrant Docklands area of Melbourne, Victoria, this course offers a pathway to further study or everyday communication in English. Whether you're planning to progress to higher education, work in Australia, or simply improve your language skills, General English Beginner provides a structured start. Use HeadStart Academy's free resource to compare courses and providers—all data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
General English Beginner falls under the field of education '091501 - ELICOS' within the Society and Culture category (09). At this level, students develop basic English communication skills for everyday situations. Typical learning outcomes include understanding simple instructions, introducing oneself, describing objects and people, and forming basic questions and statements. While the specific syllabus is set by International Institute (Aust) Pty Ltd, ELICOS courses generally focus on integrated language skills: listening to short conversations, reading simple texts, writing short messages, and speaking with basic pronunciation. The course does not lead to a formal Australian qualification (Non AQF Award) but serves as a foundation for further English study or vocational pathways. Australia's ELICOS sector is regulated under the National ELT Accreditation Scheme (NEAS) or similar quality frameworks, ensuring consistent teaching standards. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, students have ample choice, but this course at International Institute provides a focused beginner-level option in a prime Melbourne location.
The General English Beginner course is scheduled for 30 weeks (~7 months) as per the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The course is offered as a single qualification, meaning students focus exclusively on English language development. While the CRICOS record does not specify full-time or part-time status, international student visa conditions typically require full-time study load. The study mode is likely face-to-face at the campus, given the nature of language learning. International students should plan their accommodation and living arrangements around a 7-month period, noting that the course may include breaks between terms. The duration aligns with typical ELICOS beginner programs that aim to progress students to the next level within a single academic year. Always confirm the exact timetable and holidays with International Institute (Aust) Pty Ltd before enrolment.
The indicative tuition fee for General English Beginner is A$8,250, with non-tuition fees of A$680, giving an estimated total of A$8,930. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Please note that this total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) and can cost approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year depending on the policy and provider. Living expenses in Melbourne (Docklands area) are estimated at A$450–A$600 per week, covering rent, food, and transport. For the most up-to-date fees, visit International Institute's official website at www.intia.com.au. HeadStart Academy reminds you that all fees are indicative only – always confirm directly with the institution before applying.
Entry requirements for General English Beginner vary by provider, but International Institute (Aust) Pty Ltd typically expects no formal English proficiency for beginner level – the course is designed for true beginners. For higher-level courses, English language requirements often range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level. Since this is a Non AQF Award, prior academic qualifications are not usually required, but students must have completed at least Year 12 or equivalent in their home country to meet student visa requirements for ELICOS. Some providers may conduct a placement test to determine the correct level. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this standalone course; however, students who complete General English Beginner may progress to Elementary or Pre-Intermediate levels at the same provider. For precise entry conditions, contact International Institute directly or refer to their admissions page. HeadStart Academy recommends checking CRICOS registration and consulting the provider's website for the latest requirements.
General English Beginner has no mandatory work component. This is a pure language course without integrated workplace training. Students may still work part-time under their Student visa conditions (see visa section), but work is not a required part of the curriculum. If you are seeking a course with a work placement or internship, consider VET or higher education programs that include a work component.
This course is delivered at 1 Star Cres, DOCKLANDS VIC 3008, in the heart of Melbourne's Docklands precinct. Docklands is a modern waterfront area with excellent transport links to the CBD via tram, train, and bus. Melbourne's central business district is just a 10-minute tram ride away. The campus is surrounded by cafes, parks, and the Marvel Stadium. Docklands is a popular student hub due to its proximity to universities and colleges, including the University of Melbourne and RMIT. With over 150 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria alone, Melbourne offers a diverse study environment. Living costs in Docklands are slightly above the Melbourne average, with one-bedroom apartments renting from A$450–A$600 per week. Groceries and transport add approximately A$150–A$200 weekly. The area is safe and well-served by public transport, making it convenient for international students.
To study General English Beginner at International Institute (Aust) Pty Ltd, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, plus additional time for holidays. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, adequate OSHC, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, and dependents if any), and English proficiency (though not strictly required for beginner ELICOS, the Department of Home Affairs may request evidence of a lower level). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks – subject to visa conditions. You are also covered by the ESOS Act, which protects your tuition fees and ensures course quality. For visa application guidance, always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Docklands is an ideal location for students who enjoy an urban, modern environment with easy access to Melbourne's cultural and entertainment offerings. The area has a growing student population due to its proximity to major educational institutions. However, living costs are higher compared to other Melbourne suburbs like Footscray or Brunswick. If you prefer a quieter, more affordable setting, consider providers in suburban areas. Docklands also offers excellent public transport: trams along Collins Street and Bourke Street connect to the city, and Southern Cross Station is a short walk away. The campus itself is within walking distance to supermarkets, restaurants, and the Yarra River. For students who value convenience and a vibrant city vibe, Docklands is a strong choice. Remember to budget at least A$20,000–A$25,000 per year for living costs in Melbourne.
Follow these three steps to enrol in this course: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Confirm that International Institute (Aust) Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03445B) is registered for this course (117120J). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit www.intia.com.au to complete the application form. Submit required documents: passport copy, academic transcripts (if any), English test scores (if applicable), and any provider-specific forms. Meet application deadlines – typically at least 6 weeks before course start. The provider will issue a Letter of Offer if accepted. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – After accepting the offer and paying the deposit, the provider will issue a CoE for this course. Use the CoE to lodge your Subclass 500 visa application online through ImmiAccount. Include proof of OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. For visa assistance, consult a MARA agent.
Ready to improve your English from scratch? Apply for General English Beginner at International Institute (Aust) Pty Ltd today. Visit www.intia.com.au for enrolment details.
View the full International Institute (Aust) Pty Ltd profile →
General English Beginner is a CRICOS-registered programme at International Institute (Aust) 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.