Foundation courses are academic programs that help to prepare international students who show potential for higher education studies in Australia but do not meet the necessary entry requirements. As an international student, your foundation course is dependent on the choice of degree program you plan to pursue.
A benefit of taking a foundation course is that you are introduced to the Australian academic style of teaching while building your knowledge on core subjects that are critical for your further studies in Australia.
Foundation courses are also available for domestic students who may need to strengthen their understanding in certain subjects before commencing on their higher degree programs.
Preparing for foundation studies
The program coordinator of your foundation course will assess your highest education qualifications and grades before recommending a curriculum. International students are required to undertake core units such as Australian Politics or History in their foundation courses, and electives units for their respective degree programs.
Foundation courses often have various intakes within a year and can last from six to 18 months. Such foundation courses can cost from $10,000 to $32,700 for the whole duration of the program.
If you are under 18 years old, you may be required by the Australia government to file a declaration ensuring that your accommodation and personal welfare will be taken care of by a guardian if you choose to live in a private accommodation. Once your application is approved, you will be issued with a Confirmation of Enrolment and Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation/Welfare visa.
Where to study in Australia?
Most major Australian universities offer foundation courses as part of its education offerings. Depending on your highest academic qualifications attained, your foundation course will be tailored to close the gaps in your future university programme.
Selected privately-owned colleges also offer foundation courses; however, it is important to verify that these private colleges own a valid Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) provider number before applying for your foundation course. It is also important for you to check that foundation courses are recognised by your preferred Australian university before applying.
Choosing to pursue a foundation course in a higher education institution is a popular choice with international students as there is an articulation pathway available for higher education. In some cases, students may also obtain credits exemption from their foundation course units.