Foundation Year

Pathway diagram Foundation Year

Prepare for success at Monash University with direct entry into undergraduate degrees from all 10 faculties.

The Monash University Foundation Year is a pre-university program with proven success in preparing students for Monash University. As a Foundation Year student, you’ll develop your academic and English skills to the level expected of Monash University students, while studying subjects that prepare you for your future undergraduate course.

Our supportive environment and dedicated teaching and support staff will guide you each step of the way, helping you to achieve your academic potential.

Hear about our Foundation Year subjects from our students and teachers to find out the benefits of how the program helps prepare you for success at Monash University.

"In the English class, we have a lot of discussions and other speaking activities such as oral presentations and those activities really helped me to improve my communications skills."

SAMANTHA WONG (MALAYSIA)

Why study Monash University Foundation Year?

  • Guaranteed entry to Monash University (remember, you need to meet the entry requirements and degree prerequisites).
  • Curriculum designed to prepare you for success at Monash University.
  • Our teachers are experts in teaching international students.
  • Enter all 10 faculties at Monash University after studying foundation year.
  • We use the same advanced learning technology as Monash University.
  • Highly supportive environment – you'll have a team of experts such as a learning skills adviser, student counsellor, careers adviser and library staff to support you.

Foundation year at a glance

Destination 1st year Monash University 
CampusDocklands
Duration Standard: 12 months
Extended: 18 months
Intensive: 10 months
Class structure Classes and laboratory practicals for science subjects
Contact hoursStandard: 5 hours per unit, per week
Extended: 25 hours per week
Intensive: 6-6.5 hours per unit, per week 
Study model Semester
Intakes January, March, July and August
SubjectsStandard: Choose from 13 subjects, English is compulsory
Extended: 4 extended subjects
Intensive: Choose from 8 subjects, English is compulsory
Double degrees Yes
International locations Jakarta International College, Indonesia
SIM Global Education, Singapore
Sunway College, Malaysia
Universal College Bangladesh, Bangladesh
Universal College Lanka, Sri Lanka

Find out more on our international partners pages.

What you will study

We offer 13 subjects as part of the Foundation Year program. Each subject is offered in two parts:

  • Unit 1 introduces you to the subject area and key themes;
  • Unit 2 expands your knowledge and understanding.
To successfully complete Foundation Year you must pass (>50%) a minimum of eight units consisting of:
  • Units 1 and 2 of English (compulsory subject) AND
  • Units 1 and 2 of at least two other subjects AND
  • Two additional units (stand alone units or paired subject units)
Please note further Foundation Year selection and prerequisite rules apply.

Each subject has a set of learning objectives that are aligned with the requirements for Monash University undergraduate degrees. Our curriculum combines essential theory and practical knowledge with the four skills critical to your future studies and your career: critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and collaboration.

Foundation Year subject options

  • Accounting
  • Advanced Mathematics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Economics
  • English (compulsory)
  • Fundamental Mathematics
  • Global Studies
  • Contemporary Issues (available Sem 1, 2018)
  • Information and Communication Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Music
  • Physics

Read more about:

Foundation Year course formats

Academic support

Rachel Chamberlain, Learning Skills Adviser

"The learning style at Monash College is different to what you're used to. I'll help you with essays, referencing, oral presentations, report writing and group work skills. I also organise academic writing and exam preparation workshops. I want to make sure you improve your marks and that you have a great learning experience!"

Rachel Chamberlain, Learning Skills Adviser