Foundation Full Time

UTS Foundation Studies (Standard)

at University of Technology Sydney · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

082432G

CRICOS provider code

00099F

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

39 weeks

Tuition (whole course)

A$33,000 total

Per year

A$44,000/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The UTS Foundation Studies (Standard) programme at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is designed for international students seeking a pathway into undergraduate study at UTS or other Australian universities. This comprehensive 39-week programme equips students with the academic knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for success in tertiary education environments, particularly in Australia.

The course structure mirrors the academic expectations of Australian higher education by offering a mix of compulsory and elective units designed to develop critical thinking, academic literacy, independent research, and discipline-specific study skills. Units are delivered across trimesters, with credit points distributed among foundational subjects such as mathematics, science, humanities, and academic English. Assessment typically involves a combination of assignments, examinations, and participation, ensuring students meet the required standard for entry into undergraduate programs.

Throughout the programme, students build practical skills in communication, problem-solving, and self-directed learning. The UTS Foundation Studies programme is particularly suited to students who have completed secondary education outside of Australia and wish to bridge any gaps before entering an Australian university. Support services, including academic mentoring and English language assistance, help students transition smoothly to university life in Sydney, one of Australia's most vibrant multicultural cities.

While this programme does not include a work placement component, the skills developed closely align with the expectations of undergraduate studies. International students studying in Australia are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, providing valuable workplace exposure alongside their studies. Students who successfully complete the foundation programme may meet requirements for undergraduate admission and may later be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after graduation from subsequent degrees.

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

  • Preparation for a broad range of undergraduate degrees at UTS or other Australian universities
  • Development of skills relevant to academic research, business communication, and professional learning in Australia
  • Strong foundation for further study in fields such as engineering, IT, health sciences, arts, business, and design
  • Pathways to future roles in Australian industry sectors relevant to chosen undergraduate degrees

Frequently asked questions

How long is the UTS Foundation Studies (Standard) at University of Technology Sydney?

It typically takes 39 weeks, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$33,000 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Preparation for a broad range of undergraduate degrees at UTS or other Australian universitiesDevelopment of skills relevant to academic research, business communication, and professional learning in AustraliaStrong foundation for further study in fields such as engineering, IT,...

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

Related programs