If you’re an international student looking to study at an Australian university and have not met the entry requirements for direct entry, then you may need to enrol into a Foundation Studies Program. This is a pre-university program designed to prepare you for entry into the first year of your bachelor’s degree. You may be asking, ‘What will I learn in Foundation Studies?’ or ‘How will it prepare me for my university degree?’
In this blog, we will explain the top 5 benefits of studying a Foundation Studies program and hear from Abdullah Dip, a Foundation Studies student at The University of Adelaide College, about his experience.
Here are the top 5 benefits of studying a Foundation Studies program.
1. Prepares you for university life
Learning and studying at university will be different from high school. In high school, you were provided with a class schedule, received feedback on your projects and assignments and given school reports.
At university, you will need to set up and manage your own schedule of lectures, tutorials and assignments. Teachers will not follow-up your attendance or give detailed reports. It is a fast-paced environment where you will have the responsibility of balancing study, work, rest and other activities.
A Foundation Studies program is the bridge between high school and university that will help you be better prepared for different aspects of university life.
- Academic foundation
A Foundation Studies program will help you build a strong academic foundation before you start your degree. You will be learning the subjects of your chosen field early (e.g. Economics for a Business degree) and be completing university-level content, assignments, projects and tests.
Classes are usually smaller, so teachers have the time to answer your questions and provide one-to-one assistance. The student support team on campus can help you strengthen your English skills and academic writing skills including how to research, essay writing and referencing.
- Independence
At university, you are expected to arrange your own timetable. This is the same for Foundation Studies. Each semester, you will set your schedule from the list of available classes and take responsibility for attending all lectures and tutorials, completing assignments and study for exams. While teachers are supportive and classes are interactive, you are encouraged to take responsibility for your learning. Reach out to the student support team if you need any help or resources.
- Learning environment
In Foundation Studies, the learning environment is tailored to different abilities and moves at a steady pace. You will take part in team projects, contribute to class discussions and make presentations. You will start gaining industry knowledge from real-world case studies, learn new computer skills and be taught how to use the university’s online learning management system (i.e. student portals).
All these activities will help you feel more confident and better equipped when you join direct entry students in the following year.
2. Helps you develop essential skills
Theoretical knowledge and academic achievements are important, but in the Australian job market, soft skills (also known as transferable skills or people skills) are also valued by employers. These are skills that are applicable to any career path and industry.
In Foundation Studies, you will be developing essential soft skills such as critical thinking, time management, communication skills and adaptability which will be useful throughout your university life and beyond.
3. Helps you settle into your new city
When you arrive as an international student, it’s not just a new university environment you need to settle into but also understanding the Australian culture and the way things run in your new home.
In the Foundation Studies program, you will be studying with people who are going through the same challenges you are. The school also understands the challenges international students go through and are equipped to help you settle into campus, transition to living in Australia and navigate any culture shock you may experience. You will gain a better understanding of Australian teaching styles and expectations before you start your bachelor’s degree.
Just like other university students, you will have access to campus facilities (e.g. labs, sports facilities), get to join clubs and university events and make friends with students from different backgrounds.
4. Gives you options
If you do not know what degree you want to study or the career path you want to take, Foundation Studies gives you options and can be a pathway into a wider range of undergraduate degrees. Although, some programs are geared towards one degree, some can go into multiple degrees. For example, a Foundation Studies in Science can be a pathway to degrees in biotechnology, environmental science or pharmacy.
5. Guarantees you a spot
The Foundation Studies curriculum is designed in partnership with the university to equip you with the required level of knowledge and skills for your undergraduate degree. Therefore, as long as you meet the academic requirements, you are guaranteed a spot at your chosen university.
Student Focus
Abdullah Dip
Foundation Studies, Bangladesh, The University of Adelaide College
Why did you decide to study Foundation Studies?
While researching various universities and programs, I realised that transitioning to university in a new country would be more challenging than I expected. I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from the academic environment or how I would adapt to university life. That’s when I decided to study Foundation Studies at The University of Adelaide College, as it offered a great opportunity to build a strong academic foundation before starting my degree. I wanted to be fully prepared for university-level learning, especially since I was moving to a new country. Foundation Studies helped me strengthen my English skills, develop effective study habits, and get familiar with university life.
What does a typical week look like for you?
A typical week involves a mix of lectures, tutorials, and self-study. I usually have around 20 hours of classes spread over the week. Outside of class, I spend time on assignments, revising lecture materials, and sometimes participating in extracurricular activities like workshops or social events organised by the College. I am also a member of the Social Club and I help out whenever an event takes place.
How easy is it to make friends?
Even though I’ve always been quite reserved and introverted, making friends at the College has been surprisingly easy. The diverse backgrounds of students mean there’s always something to talk about, and the smaller class sizes, group work and projects make it easier to connect with each other. The College also organises social events, which are a great way to meet new people in a relaxed environment.
What advice would you give someone looking to study Foundation Studies in Australia?
My advice would be to stay organised and manage your time well. Foundation Studies can be intense, but if you stay on top of your studies and reach out for help when you need it, you’ll do great. Don’t be afraid to participate in class and engage with your peers – this is one of the best ways to learn. Believe in yourself and challenge the limitations you think you have. With the right mindset, you can flourish. Take the time to explore life in Australia outside of your studies – it’s all part of the experience!
The University of Adelaide College is a pathway provider to Adelaide University. Learn more about our Foundation Studies Program and how our College Services Advisors team are here to help you settle into the College and offer you any academic or career guidance you may need.