Please note that study modes and unit availability are subject to change and not all units are on offer at all times. Units might be offered in different modes (attendance, multi-mode or online). If you are unsure which mode is the most suitable for you, please contact your course coordinator prior to enrolling.

Minimum enrolment numbers apply to all units. The University reserves the right to cancel units with low enrolment numbers. Students will be advised of cancellations prior to the start of semester and offered an alternative unit if one is available. You must enrol for the whole academic year if you commence in Semester 1 or if you are re-enrolling. You can change your enrolment up until the census date for each semester or professional term. See the Academic Calendar for key dates.

Foundation Studies Program provides a pathway to ACU undergraduate degrees, for international and domestic students who wish to study at university but do not have a recognised Year 12 qualification.

You will be immersed in the distinctive culture of the university throughout the course. You will become familiar with ACU facilities, resources and systems and in the academic expectations and assessment models used in undergraduate degrees at ACU. Class sizes will be small (a maximum of 20 students) and staffed to provide a highly supportive learning environment.

Foundation Studies aims to equip you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed at undergraduate level at ACU.

Foundation Studies Course Progression Requirements

For more information on progression requirements for your destination degree, including required units, please select one of the following links:

• Foundation Studies Requirements for Domestic Students
• Foundation Studies Requirements for International Students

Accelerated or Full Program Eligibility Information

No matter which Foundation Studies (FS) program you’re eligible for — Accelerated or Full — both offer valuable learning experiences designed to help you build confidence, develop university-level skills, and prepare for success in your future degree.

What am I eligible for:

The Accelerated option is available for students who have recently completed Year 12 with an ATAR but didn’t quite achieve the score needed for their preferred bachelor’s degree. It’s a great way to fast-track your studies and move into university sooner. 

The Full Program is available for students who have recently completed Year 12 unscored and are now ready to explore university study or if you’re returning to study after a break. This option gives you more time to build confidence, develop your skills, and adjust to university life.

Once you’ve accepted your offer into the 2026 FS program, the Non-Award team will review your application to determine whether you’re eligible for the Accelerated option (4 units) or the Full Program (8 units).

Benefits of the Full Program

• Complete 8 units over one year, or part-time over two years
• Build a strong academic foundation for Bachelor-level study
• Take time to adjust to university life and systems
• Develop effective study habits, time management, and learning skills

Benefits of the Accelerated Option

• Complete 4 units in one semester, or part-time over two semesters
• Gain confidence and independence in a university-style learning environment
• Begin your bachelor’s degree as soon as possible
• Strengthen study, time management, and self-discipline skills

 Accelerated Program - Contact about study plans

If you’re eligible for the accelerated option, the Non-Award team will contact you to review your study plans and intended bachelor’s degree. You will be asked to read information about the accelerated pathway and to opt in if you want to proceed or stay in the full-program.

Approval and program map
Once approved, you will receive official notification via email, confirmation of your accelerated program map and enrolment information.

Important: If you trigger ACU’s ‘At Risk’ (Section 11, Academic Regulations) process during your accelerated studies, you will be required to complete the full program.

General advice

For all general enquiries, or questions regarding your course enrolment, fees, timetabling, results or graduation please contact AskACU.

Contact AskACU