Foundation Studies

Yes, Open Foundation is a FREE pathway to university. For the University of Newcastle, your application is free of charge and made directly to the University for both Semester 1 and Semester 2 intakes.

Upon completion, Open Foundation provides you with competitive entry into ALL degrees at the University of Newcastle. Additionally, upon successful completion you will be guaranteed entry into over 70 selected degrees. Your final grades from the program can also be used for competitive admission to all other degrees, including Nursing, Medicine, Law and more. Many other universities also recognise the Pathway Programs.

Open Foundation offers flexible delivery options including full-time on-campus (Newcastle Callaghan or Central Coast Gosford), full-time online (NSW residents only), part-time on-campus, and part-time online (NSW residents only). You can choose to study either the 40 unit or 60 unit program, and there is also an Open Foundation Extended option that allows you to study 6 courses instead of the standard 4.

Full-time students need to dedicate 30–40 hours to study per week, including all class time, self-directed learning, and assessments. Part-time students need to dedicate up to 20 hours per week. Integrated learning sessions require up to 2 hours a week per 10 units of study, and self-directed learning requires approximately 8 hours a week per 10 units of study.

Open Foundation Extended allows you to study 6 courses instead of the standard 4, letting you explore different study areas and build on your skills as you prepare for your degree program. It is designed for students who want to spread their study over 2 semesters while still remaining enrolled full time (including for Centrelink support). Students interested in this option must select Open Foundation Extended when applying.