The General English Program — formally known as ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) — is Australia's most widely enrolled English language pathway for international students. Offered by registered language schools, TAFE institutes, private colleges, and university language centres across Australia, the program runs from 1 to 40 weeks and is delivered at multiple proficiency levels: Starter, Elementary, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, Upper Intermediate, and Advanced. The primary goal is to prepare students to communicate successfully in English in everyday social, professional, and academic contexts, with a strong focus on the four core skills — listening, speaking, reading, and writing — as well as grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and functional language use. The program is built on a communicative, task-based learning methodology that immerses students in Australian culture while building their confidence and fluency.

General English Programs are specifically designed for international students, migrants, visa holders, and global professionals from non-English-speaking backgrounds. Students may enrol as a standalone course to improve their general communication, use it as a direct pathway into vocational (VET) programs or university study, or prepare to sit international English proficiency exams such as IELTS, PTE, or Cambridge. All registered providers in Australia must operate under the ESOS (Education Services for Overseas Students) framework and the National Code, ensuring consistent quality, student protections, and compliance with Australian Government standards. Employers most likely to engage graduates of this sector include language schools and institutes, universities and TAFEs, adult migrant education services, corporate English training providers, community organisations, and government settlement programs.

General English Programs in Australia are among the most accessible English language qualifications available, with minimal formal entry requirements. For students enrolling at the beginner or elementary level, no prior knowledge of English is required — students simply need to be aged 18 or above at the time of course commencement, hold an appropriate Australian student visa (such as a Subclass 500 Student Visa), and provide evidence of completed secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 12. Students who already have some English experience can submit results from recognised proficiency tests such as IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL, or Cambridge assessments to be placed in the most appropriate level. For mid-range levels, providers typically require a minimum CEFR B1 score or IELTS 4.0–4.5 equivalent.

Most Australian language schools conduct a placement test upon enrolment — typically the Oxford Placement Test or a provider-developed assessment — combined with a brief oral interview to determine the student's current proficiency level and ensure accurate class placement. This process also helps identify any special learning needs. For students aiming to progress into higher-level programs such as English for Academic Purposes (EAP), IELTS Preparation, or university pathway programs, providers may require completion of the Upper Intermediate level of General English or an IELTS score of 5.0 or higher before transitioning. International applicants outside Australia must apply through a registered education agent or directly with the provider and demonstrate that they meet visa requirements before their Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is issued.