Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can the age restriction be relaxed?

No, students must be aged between 18 and 20 in the year they undertake Newstep.

Are there any costs involved?

There are no tuition fees.  Students do not pay HECS.  Students will be expected to purchase textbooks where appropriate.

What is the choice of courses (subjects)?

Students undertake 80 units of study. There is a 10 unit compulsory course in each semester: Literacy and Communication and Reading, Writing, Research.  Students choose their other 60 units from a range of social science, mathematics, science, information technology and design courses. 

Is the same range of courses offered at Callaghan and Ourimbah?

Yes, except in the case of a few electives (i.e. Physics, Earth Science offered only at Callaghan; Conservation & Sustainability is offered only at Ourimbah).

Can students study courses offered at both campuses?

Yes, for example, students from Ourimbah can study Physics at Callaghan in semester 2.

Do Newstep students have to pass all their courses?

No, students must attempt 80 units and pass 70 of the 80 units studied in order to satisfactorily complete the program.  Students may carry over a partially completed program to the following year.

Do Newstep students have to apply through UAC for undergraduate admission?

Yes.  Students are assessed for admission on their average mark across their 80 units of courses.  This average mark is converted to a University Admission Ranking.  Students are NOT sent an ATAR by UAC.

What undergraduate degrees can Newstep students apply for?

All undergraduate degrees, except Medicine.  However, the highest admission ranking which a Newstep student can score is 94.