Foundation Studies Accelerated (CRICOS course code 041531M) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) over 40 weeks (~9 months). Designed as an intensive pathway for international students, this program prepares you for entry into undergraduate degrees at The University of Adelaide and other Australian universities. With two delivery locations — Adelaide and Melbourne — you can choose the city that best suits your study and lifestyle preferences. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026, ensuring you have accurate and up-to-date information to plan your study abroad journey.
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Foundation Studies Accelerated (CRICOS 041531M) is a Non AQF Award classified under Mixed Field Programmes (12) → General Education Programmes (1201) → General Primary and Secondary Education Programmes (120101). This level is designed to bridge the gap between secondary school and university, providing the academic skills and subject knowledge needed for undergraduate study. The course is offered by The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) (CRICOS 00123M, Government), a Go8 university consistently ranked among the world’s top 100. With an accelerated format, you can complete your foundation year in just 40 weeks, allowing you to begin your bachelor’s degree sooner. The University of Adelaide has been educating international students for decades, and its CRICOS registration guarantees compliance with Australian quality standards and the ESOS Act, which protects your rights as an international student.
As a Foundation Studies Accelerated student, you will develop core academic competencies in areas such as critical thinking, research methods, academic writing, and numeracy. The curriculum covers general education subjects that form the foundation for a range of university degrees, including business, engineering, health sciences, and arts. While specific subjects vary by stream, you can expect to study English for academic purposes, mathematics, and elective units aligned with your intended bachelor’s degree. This broad-based approach ensures you are well-prepared for the rigours of higher education. The field of education (General Education Programmes) is designed to provide a comprehensive grounding, making this course suitable for students who need additional preparation before commencing a specialised undergraduate program.
The course runs for 40 weeks, equivalent to approximately 9 months of full-time study. All instruction is delivered in English, and the program is structured as a single qualification (no dual award). The accelerated pace means you will cover the same content as a standard foundation program in a shorter time frame, requiring a higher level of commitment and time management. Classes are conducted on campus at either The University of Adelaide College in Adelaide or the Melbourne Campus. You will need to maintain a full-time study load to comply with your student visa conditions. The CRICOS register confirms a duration of 40 weeks, which includes scheduled breaks as per the academic calendar.
Tuition fees for Foundation Studies Accelerated are A$35,100, with additional non-tuition fees of A$940 covering items such as enrolment and materials. The estimated total cost is A$36,040. Please note that these figures are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change by the institution. You should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge, which are not included. In Adelaide, indicative weekly rent for a single person is A$250–$400, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport A$40–$60. Melbourne is slightly higher, with rent A$300–$500. Always confirm current fees directly with The University of Adelaide at adelaide.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For Foundation Studies Accelerated, you will likely need a minimum IELTS 5.5 (with no band below 5.0) or equivalent. Additionally, you should have completed Year 11 or equivalent secondary schooling in your home country. As this is a foundation program, it is designed for students who do not yet meet direct entry requirements for a bachelor’s degree. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. The University of Adelaide may also consider your academic record and any relevant work experience. For specific requirements, refer to the institution’s website or contact their admissions team. Note that HeadStart Academy does not assess applications or provide migration advice.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work opportunities can help offset living costs and provide valuable Australian work experience, but your primary purpose must be study.
Foundation Studies Accelerated is delivered at two locations in Australia: The University of Adelaide College in Adelaide, South Australia, and The University of Adelaide, Melbourne Campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Adelaide is a vibrant city known for its affordability and high quality of life, with over 120 CRICOS-registered providers serving a large international student community. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and a leading education hub, home to more than 300 providers and a diverse student population. Both campuses are accessible by public transport and offer modern facilities. Choosing between them depends on your preference for city size, climate, and lifestyle. Adelaide generally offers lower living costs, while Melbourne provides a bustling metropolitan environment.
International students enrolled in Foundation Studies Accelerated will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, plus a short period after. As a visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain valid OSHC for the entire visa period. Additionally, you will need to satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study purposes. Financial capacity evidence is also required — you must show you can cover tuition, living costs, and family expenses. Visa conditions include attending at least 80% of scheduled classes and maintaining enrolment. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; for personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Foundation Studies Accelerated at The University of Adelaide:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses and providers. Filter by course level (Non AQF Award), field (General Education Programmes), and city (Adelaide or Melbourne) to find the right program for you.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Once you have selected The University of Adelaide (Adelaide), review the entry requirements and English language test scores needed. Prepare your academic transcripts, passport, and any other documents. Submit your application through the university’s online portal or an authorised agent. Pay attention to application deadlines — foundation programs often have multiple intakes.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: If your application is successful, the university will issue a CoE. Use this document to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. You’ll need to provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and English proficiency. Once your visa is granted, you can make travel arrangements and begin your studies.
Ready to start your Australian study journey? Explore Foundation Studies Accelerated and other courses on HeadStart Academy today.
View the full The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) profile →
Foundation Studies Accelerated is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Adelaide (Adelaide). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.