Find your path to uni
If you are looking for a career change or didn’t get the marks for your dream degree, we have a number of pathway programs to get you started.
Pathway programs
If you are looking for a career change or didn’t get the marks for your dream degree, we have a number of pathway programs to get you started.
Our Pathway programs are often free and will help you to develop the skills you need, not only to gain entry, but to find success at university and beyond.
Open Foundation
Open Foundation is a free pathway program offered at the University of Newcastle for people who do not have the preparation or qualifications required for direct entry into their desired undergraduate degree.
Yapug
Yapug is a pathway program designed to enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to gain skills for entry into university while immersing them in Indigenous knowledge, history and culture.
Why study at the University of Newcastle?
The University of Newcastle offers many pathways and entry options to give you the best chance of getting in. That's why over 70,000 students have enrolled in our Pathway programs in the last 50 years! You will be supported and inspired by passionate teachers to set you up for success in your university career.
50 years of creating pathways to brighter futures
For five decades, our pathway programs have helped thousands of students realise their dreams and achieve their goals. In 2024, we celebrated 50 years of empowering dreams and changing lives.
50 years of creating pathways to brighter futures 4:30
Hear the stories of Millie Mills and Sebastian Larkin as they talk of their experiences through the Yapug and Open Foundation pathway programs.
Study medicine after your pathway
Excellence Through Equity Pathway to Medicine
Diplomas
Our Diplomas provide a more supported start to university study. Upon completion, you will gain guaranteed entry into selected degrees and receive credit for specific courses when you enter your Undergraduate degree.
Got a question? Chat to our Students
Get the best start to your uni experience
Make your transition to university a smooth and comfortable experience with a variety of guides and services that will make your pathways journey easy and stress-free.
NUPrep
NUPrep is here to help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your degree. Our FREE short courses have flexible study options and are designed to be engaging and interactive. Our expert instructors are passionate about helping students reach their full potential.
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Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre
The Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre has a proud history of delivering flexible and supportive pathways for motivated and talented students - not just to gain entry, but to thrive in their field of study.
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Applying
Your guide on how to apply for pathways options and beyond at the University of Newcastle.
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Guaranteed entry to over 70+ degrees
Our enabling pathway programs provide students with guaranteed entry to over 70+ degrees.
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Guide to getting in
The University of Newcastle has a number of pathways, scholarships and entry options to help you with getting in to uni.
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Download your free Pathways to University guide
University of Newcastle CRICOS Provider 00109J
Hear about pathways graduate Iglal Kodi's journey. 01:46
Helping you find your path to uni
We offer many pathway and English language course options to help you achieve your goal of studying with the University of Newcastle, as well as providing opportunities for you to engage with the wider Newcastle community.
Pathways
Looking for a pathway into your dream degree or need to improve your English language skills? We offer many pathway options to help you successfully transition into University study.
University of Newcastle College of International Education
The University of Newcastle College of International Education (UNCIE) is the starting platform to higher education for international students.
English Language Centre
The English Language Centre offers a range of English language programs designed to help you achieve the goal of studying with the University of Newcastle.
Why study at the University of Newcastle?
We are focused on providing high-quality education that prepares you for your future career. The University's world-class research and strong national and international partnerships drive innovation that challenges conventional thinking, breaks new ground and changes lives. You will learn from world-class teaching staff at innovative facilities, interact with local and international students and experience Australian culture.
Casual study options
We offer casual study options, including open online courses in a range of subject areas and specialised Chinese language courses.
Download our International Pathways brochure
Get the best start to your uni experience
Make your transition to university a smooth and comfortable journey with guides and services that will make your experience easy and stress-free.
English Language Bridging Program
English Language Bridging Program (ELBP) lessons are available face to face at our Callaghan Campus throughout the year. Specialising in teaching English and academic skills to students from across the world, ELBP is designed to facilitate engaging and interactive classrooms for all students.
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Study abroad
Our Study abroad programs run for one year and allows students enrolled in overseas institutions to study at the University of Newcastle and receive credit for these studies at their home institutions.
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Applying
Your guide on how to apply for pathways options and beyond at the University of Newcastle.
Read more
Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre
The Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre has a proud history of delivering flexible and supportive pathways for motivated and talented students - not just to gain entry, but to thrive in their field of study.
Read more
Study with us
We want to help you make the most of your study experience in Australia. You will learn from world-class teaching staff and innovative facilities. Interact with local and international students and experience Australian culture and way of life.
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.