Duration
56 Weeks
Delivery
On Campus
Fees
Total fee* ($AUD) $13,280
Campus
Melbourne
Duration
56 Weeks
Delivery
On Campus
Fees
Total fee* ($AUD) $13,280
Campus
Melbourne
Overview
This course is for international students only
Our General English course is designed to help you learn English in a fun and practical way. This course will give you a strong understanding of English, preparing you to use it in daily life or for further study.
You will practice speaking, listening, reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. The course includes real-life conversations and activities, allowing you to learn and improve with feedback.
The course has 4 levels:
- Elementary
- Pre-Intermediate
- Intermediate
- Upper-Intermediate
Course Length
The course lasts 56 weeks, with 44 weeks of classes and 12 weeks of holidays. Each level is carefully designed to build upon the previous one, gradually advancing students' proficiency in English.
The course provides an environment where students can learn by doing, make mistakes, receive constructive feedback, and build confidence in using English. Students will focus on key language areas, including speaking, listening, reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, preparing them for everyday communication outside the classroom or for continued English studies.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Face-to-Face Scheduled Contact Hours | 20 hours per week, delivered entirely face-to-face with no online, distance, or blended component. |
| Study Hours (Personal or Group Study) | 5-10 hours of homework per week. Homework is not mandatory but highly encouraged to assist with English language development. |
| Scheduled Breaks | The course is CRICOS registered as a 56-week program. It includes 44 weeks of scheduled delivery and 12 weeks of scheduled holidays. |
| Delivery Timetable | The course is delivered over 3 days per week with two 8-hour days and one 4-hour day. Students can choose from various timetables to fit their needs. |
Weekly Study Breakdown
| Weekday | Activity | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 (8-Hour) | Face-to-Face Classes | 8 Hours |
| Day 2 (8-Hour) | Face-to-Face Classes | 8 Hours |
| Day 3 (4-Hour) | Face-to-Face Classes | 4 Hours |
| Total Weekly Hours | Scheduled Contact Hours | 20 Hours |
Detailed Timetable
| Day Type | Schedule | Breaks |
|---|---|---|
| 8-Hour Day | 8:45 AM - 5:45 PM | 15-minute morning break (11:00 AM), 30-minute lunch break (1:00 PM - 1:30 PM), 15-minute afternoon break (3:45 PM) |
| 4-Hour Day | 8:45 AM - 1:00 PM | 15-minute break (10:30 AM) |
Enrol today and take the first step towards mastering English and unlocking global opportunities!
Entry Requirements
Education Level: No minimum education level is required. Students can join even without completing high school, with support available for spelling, grammar, and vocabulary.
English Level: No prior English skills are needed. The course is open to students with little or no English knowledge.
Age Requirement: Students must be over 18 years old on enrolment day.
Required English language test scores for immigration purposes on or after 07/08/2025
| Item | Test name | Minimum test score | Minimum test score: if principal course is accompanied by at least 10 weeks of an ELICOS; or if an eligible pathway program. | Minimum test score: if principal course is accompanied by at least 20 weeks of an ELICOS. |
| 1. | C1 Advanced | Overall band score: 161 | Not accepted | Not accepted |
| 2. | CELPIP General | Overall band score: 7 | Overall band score: 6 | Overall band score: 5 |
| 3. | IELTS Academic | Average band score: 6.0 | Average band score: 5.5 | Average band score: 5.0 |
| 4. | IELTS General Training | Average band score: 6.0 | Average band score: 5.5 | Average band score: 5.0 |
| 5. | LANGUAGECERT Academic | Overall band score: 61 | Overall band score: 54 | Overall band score: 46 |
| 6. | MET | Overall band score: 53 | Overall band score: 49 | Overall band score: 44 |
| 7. | OET | Overall band score: 1210 | Overall band score: 1090 | Overall band score: 1020 |
| 8. | PTE Academic | Overall band score: 47 | Overall band score: 39 | Overall band score: 31 |
| 9. | TOEFL iBT | Total band score: 67 | Total band score: 51 | Total band score: 37 |
Course Structure
At Swanston Institute, all ELICOS courses are taught face-to-face for 20 hours each week. There are no online or distance learning options, so students can fully engage in class.
We use the "Direct Method," a TESOL teaching style. This method immerses students in English, like how they learned their first language. Classes are fully in English, with a strong focus on speaking and listening, and grammar is learned naturally.
For more details, please see our "ELICOS Teaching and Assessment Policy."
Study Hours
Students are encouraged to complete 5-10 hours of homework each week. Homework is optional but helps improve English skills.
Learning Outcomes
In our General English course, learning outcomes differ across the 4 levels (Elementary, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, and Upper Intermediate). Each week, you will focus on specific goals to help you improve.
Elementary Term Assessment Schedule
Pre-Intermediate Term Assessment Schedule
Intermediate Term Assessment Schedule
Upper-Intermediate Term Assessment Schedule
English Placement Test
On the first day, all students will take the Swanston Institute English Placement test to assess their English level. Based on the results, students receive their level information, a course outline, and guidance on purchasing the right textbook. Only official IELTS results are accepted from other institutions, and all new students must undergo this placement test. For more information, reach out to us.
Outcomes & Pathways
Our ELICOS program (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) is for international students who come to Australia on a student visa. ELICOS is a full-time course to help you learn English, with at least 20 hours of face-to-face classes each week.
Why study with ELICOS?
Students come to ELICOS for many reasons:
- To improve English for their job or career.
- To travel with better English skills.
- To become fluent in English.
- To continue their education in English, in Australia or in another country.
ELICOS programs are known for high quality. Studying with Swanston Institute gives you the English skills you need and connects you to a trusted education provider in Australia. This course is your pathway to success, whether for work, travel, or study. Join us to start your journey today!
Dreaming of studying in Australia?
Start with strong English—enroll in our ELICOS course today!
Tuition Fee
Tuition and non-tuition fees listed are indicative based on standalone courses and may vary as per CRICOS registration. Onshore and offshore pricing for packaged and individual courses may differ and are subject to change during the student’s course of study. Additional costs may apply, including consumables like learning resources, protective equipment, and other materials. Students will be notified of any changes to fees in advance of the payment due date.
Our tuition fees for the General English (GE) courses are structured to accommodate different learning goals and commitment levels. Whether you're here for a short-term boost in language skills or aiming for a longer, immersive experience, we have options to meet your needs.
For students enrolling in programs up to:
- 1 to 15 Weeks: (2025) AUD $290 per week
- 16 to 30 Weeks: (2025) AUD $275 per week
- 31 Weeks or More: (2025) AUD $250 per week
Additional Costs
- Enrolment Fee: AUD $250 (non-refundable)
- Course Materials: $300/Quater
- After-Class Support: Included at no extra charge
- Overseas Student Health Insurance (OSHC): Required for all international students (rates vary based on provider and duration)
- Airport Pickup: Costs start from $150 per person
Note: The Airport pickup service is only offered from Melbourne Tullamarine Airport.
You will pay for the study week only, see example below:
| Study Week | Timetable | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 2 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 3 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 4 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 5 | Holiday Break | No Payment |
| Week 6 | Holiday Break | No Payment |
| Week 7 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 8 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 9 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 10 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 11 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 12 | Holiday Break | No Payment |
| Week 13 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 14 | Classes | Yes |
| Week 15 | Classes | Yes |
Invest in your future with our ELICOS course, contact us for a detailed fee breakdown and financing options!
How To Apply
Ready to Start Your Journey with Swanston Institute?
Are you eager to take on a new academic challenge and achieve your educational goals? If you’ve already chosen your course and reviewed the entry requirements, it’s time to take the next step!
Apply Online
Our streamlined online application process makes it easy to start your journey with Swanston Institute. Simply fill out the application form, and our admissions team will guide you through the rest.
Rolling Intake available every week
| Study Week | Timetable | Notes Enrolments |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Classes | Entry point for new students |
| Week 2 | Classes | Entry point for new students |
| Week 3 | Classes | Entry point for new students |
| Week 4 | Classes | Entry point for new students |
| Week 5 | Holiday Break | |
| Week 6 | Holiday Break | |
| Week 7 | Classes | Entry point for new students |
| Week 8 | Classes | Final entry point for new students |
| Week 9 | Classes | No new enrollees |
| Week 10 | Classes | No new enrollees |
| Week 11 | Classes | No new enrollees |
| Week 12 | Holiday Break | |
| Week 13 | Classes | No new enrollees |
| Week 14 | Classes | No new enrollees |
| Week 15 | Classes | No new enrollees |
Need Help with Fee Payments? We’re Here for You!
Our admissions teamis available to assist with any questions you may have for information on payment options, due dates, or any other fee-related queries, we’re here to support you.
