Standard Foundation (CRICOS course code 065045E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Queensland University of Technology (QUT) over 1 year. This foundation program is designed for international students who need to meet academic entry requirements for undergraduate study at QUT. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00213J), Standard Foundation provides a pathway to a range of bachelor degrees across QUT's faculties. Located at QUT's Kelvin Grove campus in Brisbane, the course prepares students with the academic skills, subject knowledge, and English language proficiency necessary for success in Australian university study. Queensland University of Technology is a government-funded public university with a strong reputation for industry-connected education. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia and more than 26,000 courses to choose from, QUT stands out as a leading institution for international students seeking quality education in a vibrant city like Brisbane. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and are free to search — no referral fees, no commission.
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Standard Foundation is classified as a Non AQF Award, meaning it does not result in a qualification recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework but serves as a preparatory program for further study. The course falls under the field of Education (07) with a focus on Other Education (0799), specifically Education, n.f.d. (079900). Students in this program typically develop foundational knowledge and skills in academic writing, research, critical thinking, and subject-specific content relevant to their intended bachelor degree. The course is delivered in English over 52 weeks (1 year) and leads to a certificate of completion. It is a single qualification with no dual recognition.
While the exact syllabus is determined by Queensland University of Technology (QUT), foundation programs in Education field generally cover core academic skills units plus introductory discipline content. Students can expect to improve their English for academic purposes, learn study and research methods, and gain exposure to subjects such as education theory, communication, and foundational mathematics or humanities. The aim is to equip students with the capabilities to transition smoothly into undergraduate programs. Entry into Standard Foundation does not guarantee progression to a bachelor degree; students must meet the specific grade requirements for their desired course.
According to the CRICOS register, Standard Foundation at QUT has a duration of 52 weeks (1 year). The course is delivered full-time on campus at the Kelvin Grove location. Language of instruction is English. It is offered as a single qualification only, not a combined or dual program. Students typically attend lectures, tutorials, and workshops during the academic year. The course does not include a mandatory work component, but students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for Standard Foundation is A$24,480 per year. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) are estimated at A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$25,480. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), living expenses, and visa application charges. For the most current fee information, always check QUT's official website. Living costs in Brisbane are estimated at around A$500–A$700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. For example, shared rental accommodation in Kelvin Grove averages A$200–A$300 per week, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport costs around A$50–A$70 per week with student concession.
English language requirements for foundation courses vary by provider, but typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level. For Standard Foundation at QUT, international applicants should check QUT's specific requirements. Generally, students need to have completed Year 12 (or equivalent) with satisfactory grades, and provide evidence of English proficiency. Foundation studies are available as a pathway option for students who do not yet meet direct entry into a bachelor degree. QUT will assess each application individually. It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission. Always consult QUT's admissions team directly.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component, internship, or placement. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work part-time (48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks). Many students choose to work casual jobs to support themselves while studying. It is essential to understand your visa work conditions to avoid breaching your visa.
Standard Foundation is delivered at the Kelvin Grove campus of Queensland University of Technology in Kelvin Grove, Queensland, 4059. Kelvin Grove is a suburb located just 3 km north of Brisbane's central business district. The campus is well-served by public transport, with bus routes connecting to the Brisbane CBD and other areas. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and home to over 2.5 million people, with a vibrant student population due to several universities. There are more than 130 CRICOS-registered providers in Queensland offering thousands of courses. Living in Brisbane offers a subtropical climate, affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, and a relaxed lifestyle.
International students enrolling in Standard Foundation will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live, study, and work in Australia for the duration of your course. Key requirements include: being enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (such as this one), meeting genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, having sufficient financial capacity, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the period of stay, and not engaging in activities that breach visa conditions. Standard visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and not exceeding work limits. For detailed immigration advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. All students from countries outside Australia must obtain a visa before travelling.
Applying for Standard Foundation at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare QUT's foundation program with other providers in Brisbane or elsewhere. Ensure any provider you consider is CRICOS-registered (always verify at cricos.teqsa.gov.au).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: QUT will have an application process that may include submitting academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE), and a completed application form. Check the application deadlines for your intended intake (typically February and July). Some courses may require additional documentation.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, QUT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. You must also arrange OSHC health cover and demonstrate financial capacity. Start your visa application early, as processing times vary.
Ready to study Standard Foundation at QUT? Start your application now by checking CRICOS registration and contacting the institution directly.
View the full Queensland University of Technology (QUT) profile →
Standard Foundation is a CRICOS-registered programme at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). 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.