UniStart for Schools

Georgia wells UniStart

What is UniStart for Schools?

UniStart builds confidence in Year 11 and Year 12 students and equips them with the skills required for university study. It is delivered at school by school-based teachers over 15 weeks during Terms 2 and 3.

A problem-based approach introduces students to the culture of academic enquiry and the conventions of written communication at university, while they learn how to balance competing commitments. UniStart develops a student’s understanding and skills in critical thinking and analysis, academic reading, academic writing, academic integrity, information literacy, research and self-management skills.

Students who successfully complete UniStart and Year 12, are guaranteed entry into a Southern Cross University undergraduate course.

UniStart can contribute one credit point towards the Queensland Certificate of Education.

How is the course delivered?

The course is taught at participating schools by school teachers and moderated by Southern Cross University academics. Students attend regular classes and complete three written assessments and an online quiz.

Classes are taught over 15 weeks, three hours per week as scheduled by the school. Students will also visit the Southern Cross University campus.

Southern Cross University provides a schedule to each school which includes teaching resources, assessments, online Blackboard learning site, access to Southern Cross University resources such as the library databases and careers and employability service. Students are enrolled as students of Southern Cross University.

How much does it cost?

UniStart is fee free.

Testimonials from a participating school and student

"UniStart for Schools was great in getting me prepared for university. It made the transition from school to uni very easy and provided me with all the skills I needed for assessments. I am achieving high grades at uni... I was a lot more prepared than my peers who gained entry based on their ATAR.

The tasks in UniStart are great references that I still use as a guide to some assignments I'm completing. The campus visits in the course also helped a lot in making the transition super easy."

Kai Weaver - Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours)

Tahlia with students

“UniStart offers a unique and tailored pathway, designed to introduce students to University life while giving them access to the essential skills required to succeed at university. Arcadia College has seen amazing results for our young people both academically and individually. I would highly recommend the UniStart program, as an alternative, inclusive program, solidifying future pathways for all students.”

Tahlia McGahey Principal, Arcadia College

Benefits for Students

Prepare for University

Gain confidence and the required skills for successful university study. Your new academic skills will also help you excel in senior school.

Direct Pathway to Uni

Successful completion of UniStart provides a direct pathway into a Southern Cross degree. No need to apply via Early Offer or UAC/QTAC.

Scholarship Opportunity

On completion of UniStart, you'll be eligible for one of 3 generous undergraduate scholarships worth up to $10,000.

Support and Guidance

Throughout UniStart, you will receive support from the university and guidance from your UniStart teacher.

2026 Partner Schools

2026 UniStart Partner Schools

Frequently Asked Questions

You can apply for UniStart if you are a Year 11 or Year 12 student enrolled at a partner school that already offers the program. UniStart is currently available only to Australian citizens and Permanent Residents. If you are unsure about your citizenship or residency status, speak with your teacher or contact scuadvance@scu.edu.au for advice. 

Eligible students receive a UniStart application form from their school. The application process is completed online and involves your school, your parent or caregiver, and Southern Cross University. 

Southern Cross University may contact students, parents, caregivers or teachers if additional information is required. Once all documentation has been received and assessed, eligible students will receive an offer with instructions on how to accept their place in the program. 

To complete UniStart, you must attend classes, complete independent study and submit all assessment tasks. Classes are scheduled through your school, and students should also allow approximately three to five hours each week for independent study and assessment preparation. 

The unit includes four assessment tasks: an online quiz, an annotated bibliography and two reports. To pass the unit, you must submit all assessment tasks and achieve at least 50% overall. 

UniStart can contribute one credit point towards the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE). However, it does not contribute to the calculation of an ATAR.

UniStart does not contribute towards the New South Wales Higher School Certificate (HSC).

Students who successfully complete UniStart receive access to an online application form to apply for an eligible Southern Cross University course. UniStart is a direct pathway to university, so you do not need to apply through Southern Cross Early Offer, UAC or QTAC. You will receive your offer from Southern Cross University towards the end of your Year 12 studies. 

If you are eligible for a UniStart merit scholarship, you will automatically be offered a scholarship valued at $5,000, $7,500 or $10,000. You may choose to defer your course and scholarship for up to one year. 

Please note that the following courses are not available through UniStart: Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Bachelor of Counselling, Bachelor of Midwifery and Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine. 

Yes. If you are in Year 11 or Year 12 and your school does not offer UniStart, there may be other Southern Cross University programs available to you such as Southern Cross Scholars. Contact scuadvance@scu.edu.au to discuss the options that best suit your circumstances.