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Foundation Program

 International students

Build your academic capabilities to pathway to a UQ undergraduate program

Apply now

Our Foundation Program provides students with the academic and study skills required for success in an undergraduate program at UQ.

Small class sizes and personalised academic support help our students thrive. The Foundation Program not only gets you into a UQ program, but prepares you to excel.

Program options

Based on your academic results and English proficiency, we have the right program for you.

Two international students studying in library on campus

Standard Foundation Program

This is the most popular and comprehensive option, designed for students who need a
two-semester preparation.

  • Minimum English level: IELTS 5.5 (all bands >5) or equivalent
  • Academic requirement: Check program page
  • Duration: 10 months (30 teaching weeks + 6 exam weeks + orientation/semester breaks)
  • Best for: Students who want thorough preparation, confidence, and readiness to succeed at UQ, not just entry
Standard Foundation Program
Three international students studying together in library

Accelerated Foundation Program

This intensive, one-semester program is designed for high-achieving students who are ready for a faster, more challenging pace.

  • Minimum English level: IELTS 6.0 (Writing 6, all other bands >5.5) or equivalent
  • Academic requirement: Check program page
  • Duration: 4 months (15 teaching weeks + 3 exam weeks + orientation/semester breaks)
  • Best for: High‑achieving students who need targeted preparation to start at UQ
Accelerated Foundation Program
Watch Pathway to the University of Queensland: how UQ College foundation programs support your entry on YouTube.

Progression to your undergraduate program

To progress to your chosen undergraduate program, you must pass all 5 courses and:

  1. Obtain the required GPA
  2. Meet the English language requirements 
  3. Pass the prerequisite course/s.

Select the relevant faculty below to see the requirements for your chosen undergraduate program. Please note that some programs only commence in Semester 1. Entrance to dual degrees must meet the requirements of both individual degrees. 

Check the relevant program page for full details and the most accurate advice.

Benefits of our Foundation Program

Seamless pathway to UQ

Start your journey with confidence. The Foundation Program is packaged with a UQ undergraduate program, guaranteeing you a place upon successful completion.

Setting you up for success

You’ll have access to our exclusive UQ College Learning Centre, offering personalised academic and wellbeing support, with one-on-one appointments from expert Learning Advisers and Student Services to help you thrive.

Get a head start on life at UQ

Studying at UQ's St Lucia campus, you will have full access to the world-class facilities, including extensive libraries, high-speed Wi-Fi, premium sports complexes, and the opportunity to join over 220 UQ clubs and societies.

Study in Brisbane

Brisbane is consistently ranked as one of the top 30 best student cities in the world, offering a vibrant, safe, and welcoming environment for both study and leisure.

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