International students thinking about working, studying, or immigrating to Australia might be familiar withELICOS. What is ELICOS? How does General English under ELICOS stand out compared to other English courses, and why is it beneficial for overseas students?
We will cover all you should know about ELICOS General English — what it is, who benefits from it, how it operates, and how it can assist you in achieving success in Australia or abroad.
What is ELICOS?
The term ELICOS refers to a program known as English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students. Australia offers this English class for students who are not native English speakers but wish to acquire English skills they need for work, education, or daily life.
The government strictly controls ELICOS courses provided by registered academies in Australia for quality assurance. Students and individuals who want to consistently improve their English can enroll in English language courses prior to starting a formal university course or for other necessities..
If you are starting a university degree, looking forward to working in Australia, or want to communicate better every day, ELICOS can help you pave the way.
What Is General English Under ELICOS?
A lot of students prefer to enrol in the General English course as part of ELICOS. It aims to help students at all skill levels, particularly beginners and those with intermediate level proficiency in English.
Although ELICOS provides courses for IELTS or PTE, General English is practical and aims to teach you how to communicate in daily situations, including:
- Engaging in regular dialogue
- Composing letters and emails
- Recognising spoken English in professional or public contexts
- Understanding news stories, directions, and signals
This course is perfect for students who need to improve their English before moving on to more complex coursework or professional environments.
Who is ELICOS General English For?
A broad spectrum of international students can benefit from ELICOS General English, including:
- Australian newcomers who wish to settle in more comfortably
- Students who want to go to college but need to improve their English first
- Skilled immigrants who must improve their English to get work
- Travellers or those with working vacation visas who want to communicate more effectively in English.
- Anyone beginning at a basic or lower-intermediate level who is getting ready for official English exams.
What Does the Course Cover?
Key topics covered in the majority of General English ELICOS courses include the following:
1. Speaking and Listening
The ELICOS course helps in various settings, including stores, workplaces, and public transportation. Through this, the students practice speaking, debating, presenting, and listening to native English speakers.
2. Writing and Reading
In addition to learning how to compose brief messages, reports, letters, and other types of writing, you will practice comprehending familiar texts such as emails, newspapers, and application forms.
3. Vocabulary and Grammar
It enhances your grammar practically to enable communication in everyday situations. Social engagement, education, work, and everyday experiences are the main focuses of vocabulary growth.
4. Fluency and Pronunciation
The ELICOS course helps with placing focus on intonation, stress, and pronunciation to make you seem more natural and enhance understanding.
5. Knowledge of Culture
The course incorporates cultural components to help international students comprehend Australian cultures, social standards, and etiquette.
Course Duration and Levels
The length and difficulty of ELICOS general English courses are both adjustable. Since most providers provide weekly intakes, students can begin at various times of the year. Depending on your objectives and the terms of your visa, course durations can vary from four to forty-eight weeks.
The course is usually divided into many levels, including:
- Beginner
- Elementary
- Pre-Intermediate
- Intermediate
- Upper-Intermediate
- Advanced
Before beginning, students typically take a placement test to ensure they are at the right level. Advancement through the levels is contingent upon each person’s attendance and performance.
Study Hours and Format
Being an intense curriculum, ELICOS General English requires substantial study time each week. 20 to 25 hours of study time per week is typical for a full-time course, which combines in-class instruction with optional self-study or guided learning.
There are various forms available for the courses, such as:
- In-person classes on campus
- Online education
- Options that combine both online and in-person segments
Most classes are in small batch sizes to guarantee individualised attention and successful learning outcomes.
Do You Need a Student Visa for ELICOS?
Yes! If you are planning to take a full-time ELICOS course in Australia, you need a Student Visa (subclass 500). Your course must appear on CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).
You are also required by the visa to attend all classes regularly and meet the required academic standards. If you already have a work or tourist visa, you may apply for a shorter study period for a General English course.
How can ELICOS General English Help You?
There are numerous advantages to studying general English under ELICOS:
- Increases self-assurance in speaking and comprehending English in daily situations.
- Increases employability, particularly for positions requiring communication with coworkers or clients who speak English.
- Serves as a springboard for higher education, test-taking classes, and academic English courses.
- Facilitates assimilation into Australian society and eases daily living.
Even if the course isn’t explicitly exam-focused, it helps you get ready for English exams.
How to Choose the Right ELICOS Provider?
When looking for the proper ELICOS coaching, consider the following:
- Institutions registered with CRICOS
- Teachers with experience and qualifications
- Small batch sizes for improved assistance
- Flexible start dates
- Student support services (such as help with accommodations and immigration advice)
Start Your English Journey with Englishwise
Strong English proficiency is the first step in beginning a new life or profession in Australia, as we at Englishwise are aware. By providing adjustable General English programs under ELICOS, we help you meet the specific needs of international students at all levels.
With our experienced trainers, thoughtful course structure, and tailored learning solutions, you will reach your goals efficiently. Whether you are a newcomer to the country or need extra education/job training, we help you learn the English language strategically. Additionally, you can get access to combined study courses for PTE, NAATI, and IELTS, among others.
Let Englishwise help you improve your confidence, communication, and understanding of the Australian culture for your success.
