Embrace flexibility and receive dedicated support in this pathway program designed to prepare you to begin a JCU Bachelor’s degree.

Open to both mature students and school leavers who are, or about to turn 18 years old, JCU Prep is the ideal stepping stone for those wanting to take on university study with confidence.

Your program of study will depend on your individual circumstances, and the degree you would like to progress into. Tailor your course selection so that you only study the subjects you need. You’ll be ready to enter further study on your own timeline, and with the academic skills for success.

If you have not previously completed high school or you are returning to study after a lengthy gap, it is likely that you will begin your JCU Prep journey with an Introduction to Academic Learning. Learn the fundamentals of time management, note-taking, research, essay structure and referencing conventions. You’ll develop the knowledge and skills to present academic arguments in multiple formats.

If you simply need to meet specific subject requirements, you can arrange your study plan to focus on these. Build a foundation for your degree with preparatory subject offerings in Science, Chemistry and multiple streams of Mathematics, preparing you to meet the knowledge requirements of your target degree.

Depending on the number of subjects you choose to complete, it may take as little as three months for you to build the necessary knowledge and skills for university study. JCU Prep will also assist you in locating JCU campus buildings and accessing the facilities, technologies and student support services designed to empower your success.

No matter which subjects you take, you’ll benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalised feedback designed to embrace your strengths and build a solid knowledge base. You’ll be guided by expert advice from teaching specialists who have significant experience in preparing students for tertiary study.

To get you started on your pathway journey, our dedicated Pathway Programs Student Support Advisors can provide you with everything you need to determine which subjects align with your study needs. Speak to our team today for further information.

JCU Prep is an enabling course designed to equip you for success in a variety of Bachelor’s degrees.

When you graduate with a JCU Bachelor’s degree, you’ll emerge into the workforce with targeted knowledge and skills designed to align with current employer demands. JCU graduates excel in roles within government, private and not-for-profit organisations, and embrace the diverse challenges associated with careers in rural and remote communities, major metropolitan areas and overseas markets.

The JCU Careers and Employability team can provide you with resume and application support, interview coaching and a Career Ready Plan while you are still studying. Benefit from subjects, services and industry connections designed to ensure that your JCU studies prepare you for a range of exciting career opportunities.

FEE-FREE Uni Ready courses provide students with preparatory studies to gain the skills they need to get into university, without being out of pocket.

The Australian Government will invest $350 million in additional Commonwealth Grant Scheme funding over 4 years, commencing on 1 January 2025, to deliver FEE-FREE Uni Ready courses to help more students prepare for university. This investment will provide more students with a high quality enabling pathway into higher education, focussing on students from underrepresented backgrounds.

For further information, please see: 2025 FEE-FREE Uni Ready course booklet

A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.

Learn more about fees and financial support

You can apply for the JCU Prep course directly through the JCU Application Portal — no need to go through QTAC, regardless of whether you have an ATAR.

What You'll Need

Before starting your application, make sure you have the following documents ready:

• Citizenship documents (e.g. passport, visa, or citizenship certificate) if you were not born in Australia.
• Name change documentation, if you have previously studied at JCU and your name has changed.

Submitting Your Application

1. Go to the JCU Application Portal.
2. Follow the prompts to complete your application.
3. Upload your supporting documents when requested.

After You Apply

• You’ll receive an Offer for JCU Prep and a conditional offer for your selected Bachelor’s degree by email.
• Use the JCU App to accept your offer.
• Create your personalised study plan using the JCU Prep Study Planning Tool and enrol in subjects.

Need help? Contact a Pathways Student Advisor for support with accepting your offer and choosing your subjects.

Check JCU application deadlines to make sure you apply in time for your preferred trimester