Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS)

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Your journey starts with a STEP.

Your pathway to university starts here. 

Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) is a Centrelink-approved fee-free uni ready course, designed to help you build confidence, develop essential study skills and prepare for success at university.

Whether you're returning to study after time away, looking for opportunities to enter the workforce, needing to meet entry requirements for your chosen course, or simply want to feel more confident before starting a degree, STEPS will prepare you to successfully transition into your chosen university course. 

With flexible study options and personalised support, you'll gain the skills, knowledge and confidence to take the next step towards your future.

  • Katelyn Magill
    “
    The best thing about studying STEPS is it really provided me all the key skills that I needed to get through my bachelor degree. It really prepared me for my time management, even essay writing.

    Katie Magill

    STEPS, Bachelor of Paramedic Science

Is STEPS right for you?

STEPS is a fee-free uni-ready course for people who do not already hold an undergraduate qualification.

Designed to help you build confidence, develop academic and study skills, meet entry requirements, and prepare for success at university.

STEPS may be suitable for you if you want to undertake university study and:

  • are returning to study or work after some time away
  • are looking to start your career
  • want additional support to gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to successfully transition into your chosen university course
  • need to meet prerequisite subjects or entry requirements for your chosen university course.

To be eligible for STEPS, you must:

  • be 18 years of age or older in the year of enrolment*
  • be an Australian Citizen, a New Zealand Citizen, a Permanent Resident, or a holder of a Humanitarian Visa; and
  • reside in Australia.

*You can apply at 17 years of age, but you must turn 18 years of age within an academic year of enrolment. 

View STEPS eligibility requirements.

Starting university can feel daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. 

As a STEPS student, you'll be supported by a dedicated Access Coordinator and a team of experienced staff who will guide you throughout your studies. From application, enrolment and study planning, through to preparing to transition for your next course, we're here to help you succeed.

You'll also have access to CQU's learning systems, academic support services and a community for fellow students helping you build confidence, make connections and develop the skills needed for university success.

Find out more about CQUniversity's full range of student support.

STEPS is a fee-free uni-ready Centrelink approved course, helping you prepare for university without the burden of tuition fees. Eligible students may also be able to access financial assistance while studying through Centrelink.

For more information about available payments and support, visit the Centrelink website. You can also explore information about CQU scholarships and additional financial support on the STEPS course page.

Frequently Asked Questions

STEPS is designed to prepare you for success at university. 

After successfully completing the course, you can apply for direct entry into a range of CQUniversity diplomas and degrees, providing a pathway towards your chosen career.

View the Requirements for Direct Entry to learn more about eligible courses and pathway options. 

Alternatively, you can apply through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) or other state-based university admissions centres for courses at CQUniversity or other institutions.

Explore More Details

For information about study modes, locations, units, eligibility requirements, key dates and how to apply, visit the STEPS course page. You'll find everything you need to know about studying STEPS and taking the next step towards university.

View STEPS course details.

Events

Register for a STEPS Information Session to find out how this fee-free uni ready course can prepare you to transition to your next chapter with confidence.

07
Oct
STEPS Term 3 Information Session
Online

Want a personal chat about STEPS?

Get your questions answered with a one-on-one conversation. Choose a time to connect with us via a phone or video call, email or via social media such as Facebook Messenger.

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