The Foundation Studies program at the University of Adelaide is designed to equip students with essential academic and life skills for successful university study. This program is ideal for individuals who are new to university, such as recent school leavers without an ATAR or those returning to education. It offers a supportive environment to build confidence and develop critical skills in areas like writing, communication, numeracy, research, and study techniques. The program is fee-free and provides a pathway to a wide range of undergraduate degrees at the university.
The Foundation Studies program is delivered over one year of full-time study, comprising up to eight courses. The program is structured in three blocks, offering entry, exit, and transition points. Students can complete all three blocks or exit with a certificate after each block. The curriculum focuses on developing core academic skills and allows for elective choices relevant to future study disciplines.
Entry into Block 1 is open access. Applicants meeting the specified criteria may be eligible to commence at Block 2. A literacy evaluation may be conducted post-admission to determine the need for additional English language support, which would involve enrolling in a fee-free language and literacy development course. Entry requirements are provisional and subject to change.
The Foundation Studies program is fee-free. Non-tuition fees may apply. Further information can be found on the non-tuition fees page.
The Foundation Studies program is fee-free for all students, including international applicants. However, please note that non-tuition fees may still apply.
Applicants must be a minimum of 17 years old. There are no academic prerequisites or assumed knowledge required for entry into Block 1.
The program is designed for one year of full-time study. It is structured into three blocks, offering flexible entry, exit, and transition points.
International students can apply directly through the University of Adelaide's online application portal. You will need to submit your application and provide necessary documentation.
Yes, the Foundation Studies program provides a direct pathway to a wide range of undergraduate degrees at the University of Adelaide upon successful completion.