Foundation Studies

Your pathway to a UNSW bachelor’s degree
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A Foundation Studies program is your supportive pathway to the First Year of any UNSW degree. 

Our programs are designed to suit your academic and English skills and prepare you for studying at university. We support you with personalised learning, small classes and social activities to help build your future at UNSW. 

Your supportive pathway

High School Year 11/12 progresses to Foundation Studies program progresses to First Year at UNSW Sydney High School Year 11/12 progresses to Foundation Studies program progresses to First Year at UNSW Sydney

Why Foundation Studies?

Flexible entry points

If you’ve just missed out on entry or need help to meet English and academic requirements for a bachelor’s degree, our range of Foundation Studies programs is for you. They are tailored to different abilities and move at a pace that works for you – with the right support and flexibility to reach your study and career goals faster.

Be degree-ready

Do you want to study a degree in Architecture, Business, Cyber Security, Medicine, Quantum Engineering, or any of our hundreds of other professional pathways? The content you study in our Foundation Studies program has been developed in consultation with the UNSW faculties so you will be prepared for your degree.

A supportive pathway

You will enjoy a personalised learning experience with individual support from dedicated and experienced teachers. Regular feedback and ongoing assessments will keep you moving forward. Prepare to challenge yourself, get ready for life at UNSW and make lasting friendships along the way.

Which Foundation Studies program is for me?

Transition Program
This short, intensive course is designed for the Physical Science, Life Science, Commerce, Design and Actuarial Studies streams. Taking place over four months, it will help develop the practical skills and confidence you need to thrive at university.
Standard Foundation Program

The Standard Foundation Program is a fast-paced pre-university program for students that takes place over nine months. It helps you build English and critical thinking skills for university.

Standard Plus Foundation Program

The 12-month Standard Plus Foundation Program covers the same material as Standard, as well as extra subjects, for example Business Studies and Critical Skills and Collaboration.

Student Guide

Download our Student Guide today for more information on our courses, life at UNSW College and how we help you reach your goals.

Student Life

As a UNSW College student, you are connected to the wider UNSW community: active, vibrant and diverse. Discover more about what that means.

Living in Sydney

One of the world’s most liveable cities, Sydney is multicultural, safe, filled of natural beauty and home to many global companies. See what Australia’s iconic harbour city can offer you.

Accommodation

UNSW Sydney has a variety of student accommodation options to suit your needs. Walk to your classes, make new friends and enjoy the amazing Sydney lifestyle.

Pathway Finder

Choose from multiple pathway options that will help you get into your university degree of choice at UNSW Sydney.

Student Services

We are here to support you while you study with us. Learn more about the many different ways we look after you from your first day to graduation.

Under 18 Care

Many of our students at UNSW College are under 18. If you do not have a parent or guardian to stay with while you are in Sydney, we can help.

Student & Alumni Stories

Hear from the students we have helped along their path to academic success and future careers, as they share their stories about studying with UNSW College.

Scholarships

We have a range of scholarship options available for UNSW College students. Find out how to apply, eligibility criteria and more.

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Foundation Studies, Academic English and Pre-Masters Program
UNSW College delivers its Foundation Studies, Academic English, and Pre-Masters Program under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education). 

Diplomas
UNSW College delivers its UNSW College Diplomas under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education). UNSW College delivers UNSW Diplomas on behalf of UNSW Sydney under CRICOS Provider Code 00098G; UNSW Sydney TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12055 (Australian University).

See https://unswcollege.edu.au/esos for more information. © 2025 UNSW Global Pty Limited.