Foundation Curriculum & Instruction Full Time

Foundation Studies Standard

at Adelaide University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

041530A

CRICOS provider code

00123M

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$35,100 total

Per year

A$35,100/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Foundation Studies Standard course at Adelaide University is a one-year pathway designed for international students who wish to begin an undergraduate degree but do not yet meet university entry requirements. It covers core academic subjects like mathematics, sciences, information technology, and humanities, alongside essential skills such as academic English, research methods, and independent study. The content is structured to help students adapt to Australian academic expectations and classroom styles.

Students complete a series of units across two semesters. Each unit typically carries a set number of credit points, and the programme layout aligns with the first-year experience of a university undergraduate degree. Ongoing assessment and regular feedback support academic development. The skills taught include critical thinking, effective communication, academic writing, time management, and IT literacy, all focused on ensuring readiness for tertiary-level study.

This course is well-suited to recent secondary school graduates from overseas, or those returning to study, who seek entry to a bachelor’s degree offered by an Australian public university. Adelaide University supports students with tailored advice, study planning, and links to various student support services on campus. Many graduates of Foundation Studies progress to a diverse selection of undergraduate programmes within the university.

During their studies, international students on this full-time programme may work up to 48 hours per fortnight, subject to visa conditions. Successful completion meets the academic entry criteria (but not necessarily subject prerequisites) for most Adelaide University undergraduate degrees. Students should check the official university site for the most up-to-date details, including fees published on the CRICOS register and current subject offerings.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Progression to undergraduate studies at an Australian university
Eligibility for a broad set of bachelor's degrees, leading to careers in fields like business, engineering, health, education, science, IT, and humanities
Readiness for casual and part-time roles in academic and student support environments during and after study

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Foundation Studies Standard at Adelaide University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$35,100 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Progression to undergraduate studies at an Australian universityEligibility for a broad set of bachelor's degrees, leading to careers in fields like business, engineering, health, education, science, IT, and humanitiesReadiness for casual and part-time roles in academic and stude...

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