Foundation courses

Your foreign high school/secondary school diploma may not meet Australian university entry requirements. International students who do not meet entry requirements can take foundation courses, which upon completion will satisfy application requirements for Australian undergraduate university study.

Is a foundation course right for me?

Final year examinations for secondary school students vary widely from country to country, and not all international students obtain the knowledge and skills necessary to enter straight into an Australian university undergraduate programme.

Foundation courses are offered to cater to students at different competency levels. If you have achieved a high school/secondary school diploma (or equivalent) but do not meet basic entry requirements to go straight into your chosen undergraduate university programme, a foundation course could be an excellent option. To apply, students must show proficiency in English. Other requirements are set out by the individual colleges or universities.

Bear in mind that foundation courses do more than prepare a student academically. They also help international students adapt culturally and socially, as well as give them an understanding of Australian university-style learning.

How long will it take?

Foundation courses generally take one year of full time study to complete, though some colleges and universities offer flexible programmes that can be completed in as little as nine months or extended beyond a year, should a student need more time to prepare for undergraduate university studies.

Where can I find a foundation course?

Universities, TAFE (Technical and Further Education) colleges and Vocational Education and Training (VET) organisations across Australia offer foundation courses. Some of these institutions guarantee university placement after successful course completion, such as universities offering foundation courses to prepare students specifically for their undergraduate programmes. Schools offering foundation courses should provide current matriculation results upon request.