Foundation Curriculum & Instruction Full Time

Standard Foundation Program

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

000725G

CRICOS provider code

00098G

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

36 weeks

Tuition (whole course)

A$41,100 total

Per year

A$59,367/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Standard Foundation Program at the University of New South Wales (CRICOS course code: 000725G) is expertly designed to bridge the academic and English language gap for international students seeking progression to undergraduate study in Australia. Over the course of 36 weeks, students explore a broad curriculum tailored to develop essential skills in critical thinking, academic research, communication, and subject-specific knowledge within Curriculum & Instruction. This immersive program provides foundational learning in mathematics, academic English, and other core areas relevant to future university courses, utilising interactive seminars, group work, and project-based assessments for a practical learning experience.

Australian foundation programs such as this one offer a structured environment, generally divided into study periods or terms that mirror the pace and expectations of higher education. Students typically enrol in multiple units of study, earning credit points toward their progression. Emphasis is placed on continuous academic support, including personalised guidance and skills workshops to ensure readiness for the rigours of undergraduate degrees in Australia. The program culminates in final assessments that evaluate both academic and language proficiency, supporting smooth transition to a wide range of bachelor's degree pathways at UNSW and other Australian universities.

Students in the Standard Foundation Program acquire skills such as academic writing, analytical reasoning, independent study habits, and effective collaboration. The program particularly suits international students aiming to adjust to the Australian education system, improve their English language proficiency, and meet university entry requirements. With world-class resources and teaching staff, UNSW ensures that students are well prepared for further specialisation in fields such as education, business, science, engineering, or the arts.

Foundation students are eligible for the work rights extended to international students in Australia, allowing them to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies. On progression to a bachelor’s degree, graduates can explore pathways to the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, providing an opportunity to gain valuable experience in the Australian workforce. Prospective students are encouraged to confirm all programme structure and entry details on the official UNSW page.

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

Pathway to undergraduate degrees in education, business, science, arts, and more
Preparation for roles within Australian organisations focused on academic support and educational services
Foundation for careers in diverse sectors by enabling eligibility for further study
Opportunities to access Australia’s higher education and subsequent employment market

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Standard Foundation Program at University of New South Wales?

It typically takes 36 weeks, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$41,100 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Pathway to undergraduate degrees in education, business, science, arts, and morePreparation for roles within Australian organisations focused on academic support and educational servicesFoundation for careers in diverse sectors by enabling eligibility for further studyOpportuniti...

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