General English (CRICOS course code 117733B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This course is designed for international students who want to improve their English language skills for academic, professional, or personal purposes. As an ELICOS program (Field of Education 091501), it focuses on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities in a supportive classroom environment. Delivered at the provider's campus in Melbourne's central business district, this course offers a pathway to further study or employment in Australia. Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04354H) is a private institution registered with the Australian Government to enrol overseas students. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses nationwide, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options using official data from the CRICOS register (April 2026). All fees shown are indicative, sourced from the register, and subject to change.
General English (CRICOS course code 117733B) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This course falls under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Language and Literature (0915), and is classified as ELICOS (091501). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study components. The indicative tuition fee is A$17,500, with non-tuition fees of A$900, bringing the estimated total to A$18,400. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd before applying.
As an ELICOS course, General English focuses on developing practical English language skills across listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students typically study grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and communication strategies in everyday and academic contexts. While the exact curriculum is set by the provider, graduates of such programs often achieve sufficient proficiency to pursue further studies or employment in English-speaking environments. The course is structured to build confidence and fluency through interactive lessons, group discussions, and real-world tasks. For specific syllabus details, please refer to Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd.
The course duration is 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course — it does not lead to a dual award or include foundation studies. Study mode is typically full-time, on-campus attendance. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions (Subclass 500).
The indicative tuition fee for General English is A$17,500. Non-tuition fees, which may include enrolment, materials, or administration charges, are estimated at A$900. The estimated total cost is therefore A$18,400. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Additional costs you will need to budget for include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's official website: Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd.
English language requirements vary by provider, but for General English courses at this level, you may need to demonstrate a certain proficiency — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on the course level. Some providers accept alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE. Prior qualifications are usually not required for ELICOS programs, though you must have completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 11 or 12. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who need additional preparation — check with Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd for specific entry criteria. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and have sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, as an international student holding a Subclass 500 visa, you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are tied to your enrolment and cannot commence until your course starts.
General English is delivered at Level 4, 398 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000. This campus is located in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, a vibrant hub for international students. Melbourne is home to over 250,000 international students and hosts more than 100 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses), diverse accommodation options (shared rental A$200–350 per week, studios A$350–550), and a high quality of life. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$1,500–2,000 per month excluding tuition. The campus is well-connected to major transport hubs, making it convenient for students.
To study General English at Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, sufficient English proficiency (as per provider), financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC for the duration of stay. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must maintain enrolment, attendance, and course progress. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for you and any accompanying family members. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice — consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for General English at Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (ELICOS), and location (Melbourne). Confirm that Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04354H) offers the course you need.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the provider's website to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online, including evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE statement. Processing times vary — apply early.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top destination for international students. It offers a multicultural environment, world-class education, and a thriving arts and food scene. For a course like General English, Melbourne provides ample opportunities to practise English in real-life settings. The city has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, meaning you can easily pathway into further study. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney: expect A$1,500–2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. Public transport is efficient with a myki card. However, consider your budget, climate preference, and lifestyle when choosing. HeadStart Academy helps you compare providers and courses across all Australian states and territories.
Browse more ELICOS courses in Melbourne on HeadStart Academy to compare providers and find the best fit for your goals.
General English is a CRICOS-registered programme at Victorian Skills 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.