The ACU Foundation Studies program provides a pathway to your first year of undergraduate study at ACU.

After you complete Foundation Studies, you will gain guaranteed entry* into the ACU undergraduate degree of your choice, provided you achieve the grade point average and English proficiency levels required for your chosen degree.

About Foundation Studies

Success starts with building the right foundations. If you are an international student and do not have the equivalent of an Australian Year 12 qualification, Foundation Studies may be the pathway for you.  

Foundation Studies will prepare you for undergraduate study at ACU by providing a course specifically designed for Australian Catholic University. As a Foundation Studies student you will:

• be immersed in the distinctive culture of the University.
• become familiar with ACU facilities, resources and systems
• gain an understanding of the academic expectations and assessment models used in undergraduate degrees at ACU.

The Foundation Studies program is offered over 3 x 10-week terms. Each term is followed by an exam week and break week(s). You will have 22-25 hours of scheduled class per week, a total of 720 hours over 30 weeks.

Why Foundation Studies?

• Entry into undergraduate study: Gain guaranteed entry to your chosen ACU undergraduate degrees as long as you achieve the grade point average and English proficiency level required for your degree.
• Adapt to university academic environment: Set yourself up for success at ACU and beyond by developing your academic foundations, study skills and confidence in the English language.
• Be part of the community: Benefit from being part of the ACU community from the moment you enrol. You will be an ACU student from day one with a student ID card and access to all campus facilities including free Wi-Fi, library resources, student welfare and support services, and lots of fun activities and events as well.
• Meet new people: You'll have plenty of opportunities to meet and interact with your peers and can build connections and study networks for your time at university.
• A supportive learning environment: Benefit from small classes and receive structured, personalised support from dedicated teachers experienced in working with students with an international background. 
• High quality program: The ACU Foundation program meets the requirements for Foundation Programs which have been registered on CRICOS for delivery in Australia and is specifically designed to provide overseas students with academic preparation for entry into first year of undergraduate study or its equivalent.

More information

How to apply 

View course information for 2024 entry

Entry requirements

At ACU, every application we receive is carefully considered. Applicants receive offers to Foundation Studies based on their ability to meet the entry requirements for the program.

View Foundation Studies entry requirements

View minimum entry requirements by country

Minimum age requirements

Applicants must be at least 17 years of age on commencement of the Foundation Studies Program.

View additional instructions for international students under 18 years of age

Foundation Studies flyer

More information about Foundation Studies can be found in our flyer.

Download Foundations Studies flyer

*Students wishing to study Bachelor of Nursing will require additional evidence of English language proficiency.