JCU Prep
Your fee-free pathway into university study
#1
in QLD for full-time employment1
5 Stars
for student-teacher ratio1
Top 2%
of universities in the world2
- Build foundational skills to set you up for success in your chosen degree, whether it’s in Science, Business, Health, or beyond.
- Personalised study plans designed to fit your individual needs and help you prepare for university-level study.
- Flexible learning options to fit your lifestyle, whether you study on campus in Cairns or Townsville, or online.
- Try our fee-free Prep program to figure out if university is right for you before commencing your undergraduate studies.
Fast facts
Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Duration: 3 – 12 months full-time (or part-time equivalent) depending on your individual study plan.
Entry requirements**: To be eligible for FEE-FREE Uni Ready students must be an Australian resident/citizen as per Australian Government guidelines and be about to turn 18 years old when study commences.
**This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.
Subjects (choose what you need)
Introduction to Academic Learning
You sharpen personal study habits and practise academic writing, including correct referencing and structured essays. Developing academic skills you build advanced skills in learning strategies, critical reading, academic writing and time management so you can thrive at university.
Mathematics A1
You cover foundational concepts such as fractions, decimals, percentages, measurement, graphing and basic statistics.
Essential Maths
You deepen your understanding of arithmetic and algebra, applied geometry (perimeter, area, volume), trigonometry, Pythagoras and the Cartesian plane.
Preparatory Maths
You extend core arithmetic and algebra into linear and quadratic functions, graph sketching, trigonometry and simultaneous equations.
Essential Science
You gain introductory knowledge in physics, chemistry, biology and earth science, providing the base needed for health-related degrees.
Preparatory Chemistry
You meet the chemistry prerequisite for specific bachelor programs by studying fundamental chemical principles and earning credit toward your degree.
Learning in a Digital Environment
You develop digital literacy, selecting and using the right tools and technologies, including mobile devices, for research, learning and information sharing.
Cultural Intelligence for Professionals
You cultivate cultural, emotional and social intelligence so you can create and maintain inclusive spaces in both academic and professional settings.
What career possibilities are there?
JCU Prep itself is a stepping-stone to a bachelor’s degree. Once you complete a JCU undergraduate program you can move into roles across government, private and not-for-profit sectors, from rural and remote communities to major metropolitan centres and global markets. While you study, the JCU Careers and Employability team offers résumé reviews, application advice, interview coaching and personalised career planning so you graduate ready for a wide range of opportunities.
To be eligible for FEE-FREE Uni Ready students must be an Australian resident/citizen as per Australian Government guidelines and be about to turn 18 years old when study commences. No previous qualifications are required to enrol.
The duration of study is dependent on your individual circumstances. For example, a recent school leaver who may be missing a subject prerequisite can complete their study in three months when studying full-time, whereas a mature student may take up to twelve months to complete their study depending on their individual study plan.
JCU Prep has no associated course fees.
Applications for JCU Prep can be submitted directly to JCU rather than through QTAC, whether you have an ATAR score or not.
Using the JCU Application Portal
To apply for JCU Prep, you may need to prepare supporting documentation. If you were not born in Australia, you will need to provide your citizenship documents (e.g. passport, visa, citizenship certificate). If you have previously studied at JCU and have since changed your name, you will need to provide change of name documents.
Once your documents are ready, open the JCU Application Portal and follow the prompts to complete your application.
Upon Your Application
Once you have submitted your application, you will automatically receive an Offer for entry to JCU Prep as well as a conditional offer for your chosen Bachelor's degree via email.
You can accept your offer using the JCU App. You can also reach out to Pathways Student Advisors for assistance with accepting your offer and subject selections.
Note: Check the JCU application due dates to ensure you meet the deadline for your chosen trimester.
Apply via JCU
"The JCU Pathways program was more than just a stepping stone; it was a comprehensive journey. It enriched my academic understanding and honed my skills in research, critical analysis and collaboration. Owing to the nurturing environment of faculty and peers, I transitioned into a bachelor's with clarity and enthusiasm."
Jordan Dickson
JCU Pathways — Alumni
"Coming to JCU was a great transitional experience for me after 4 years serving in the military. The JCU Pathways program gave me the opportunity to make great friendships and connections. I have had support since day one from the Indigenous Education and Research Centre. JCU gives me the freedom to be who I want to be."
Sarah Lewis
JCU Pathways — Alumni
"JCU Prep is great way to start tertiary studies. The staff are experts in their subject areas and they are also friendly and supportive. You can choose a study plan that suits your time and skill requirements. JCU Prep subjects focus on Academic Skills, IT Literacy and Numeracy and will help you prepare for further study in areas like Nursing, Teaching, Science and Engineering."
Andrew Higgins
JCU Pathways — Lecturer
If you were not born in Australia, or previously studied at JCU and your name has changed, you will need to upload supporting documentation.
Visit the JCU Application Portal and follow the prompts to submit your application — ensure you apply before the deadline.
You'll receive your offer for JCU Prep and a conditional offer for your selected Bachelor's degree via email shortly after submitting your application.
Ready today for tomorrow
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