Most students spend Years 11 and 12 doing exactly what everyone else is doing, the same subjects, the same exams, the same timetable. But there’s another option that you may not have heard about. Universities let school students enrol in real university units, often for course credit, while they’re still finishing their final years of school. It might be called “uni at school”, “enhancement studies”, or “university extension”, depending on where you look. Whatever the name, the idea is the same; a taste of university, years before you actually start.
If you want to dive into university-level subjects and experiences while still enjoying the familiar environment of high school; we’ll explain what’s involved, and why it could be worth a look.
What is uni at school, exactly?
They’re programs designed to let school students study one or two university subjects alongside their normal school workload. You might attend lectures either on campus or virtually, join online tutorials, or complete coursework in your own time. There are often other benefits as well, like specific events, mentoring, networking, and more. At the end, you’ll get graded, and in many cases, the points or grades could count towards a degree later on.
It’s not the same as a school elective. You’ll be taught by university lecturers, using university resources, and held to university standards. That’s part of what makes it valuable.
1. Explore subjects your school doesn’t teach
School curriculums are broad, but they can’t cover everything. Uni at school programs could open the door to subjects like criminology, astrophysics, or public health, things you’d never usually encounter before enrolling in a full degree.
Or, if there’s a subject area you love at school and intend to continue studying, you could get some insight into what a university course in the field would look like and get a jump on your tertiary studies.
Other than the chance to delve deeper into topics you love, you could also be gaining valuable insights into potential career paths before you enrol in a lengthy and potentially expensive degree.
2. Get a taste of university-level study
University study is different from school. There’s often less structure, you’ll need to do more independent reading, and you’ll be given assessments where you’ll have to form your own arguments rather than repeat what you’ve learnt. Doing a unit or two early means you’ll find out if this style of learning is going to suit you. Plus you’ll still have the safety net of school around you, rather than getting to grips with it during your first semester at university when you might also be learning to navigate life skills independently, and reducing the feeling of being overwhelmed.
3. Build confidence for the transition ahead
Starting university can feel like a big leap. You’ll be managing your own timetable, navigating a much bigger campus, and figuring out how lectures and tutorials actually work. Students who’ve already done a unit or two tend to find that transition less daunting, simply because they’ve done it before and it feels more familiar.
4. Earn credits before you even finish school
You’ll need to check details for any programs you’re interested in, but many universities let you count a unit you’ve completed at school towards a future degree with them. That means less coursework once you officially enrol (more time to settle into uni life), and could sometimes even mean a shorter overall degree. Not every university offers this, and the rules vary, so confirm it with the university directly before you commit, especially if that’s important to you.
5. Boost your university application
Colleges and universities tend to value applicants who have challenged themselves academically and shown a genuine interest in their chosen field of study, so highlighting your participation in these programs when applying to uni could really set you apart from other candidates. Completing a university-level unit while still at school also shows initiative as well as the motivation, organisation, and commitment you’ll need to thrive at uni.
6. Experience university life
Depending on the uni at school program you choose, you might be able immerse yourself in the university environment while you’re still in high school. Attending lectures on campus, using university facilities, joining events and networking opportunities, and interacting with current students. You could make friends who’ll be studying at the same campus before you’re even enrolled, which could have you looking forward to O-Week even more.
It’s natural if the unknown feels a bit intimidating, but knowing the differences between high school and uni, knowing your way around uni systems and even campuses could give you a major edge when it comes to feeling ready and prepared for the changes after high school.
7. Expand your network
Building connections is always a great way to pave the way for future opportunities, and it’s never too early to network. Through uni at school programs, you’ll meet professors, industry professionals, and fellow students who share your academic interests. These connections could provide mentorship, internship opportunities, and valuable insights into career paths you may want to pursue.
Things to check before you sign up
Uni at school isn’t necessarily the right choice for everyone, and there are a few things worth thinking through first:
- Workload: You’ll be adding university study on top of an already busy school timetable, so be honest with yourself about how much you can take on.
- Cost: Some programs are free for school students, others charge fees. Always check before enrolling and work out if there are other costs like transport or resources you’ll need to cover.
- Entry requirements: Universities usually set a minimum school grade or teacher recommendation to take part.
- Deadlines: Applications often open months before the unit starts, do your research and don’t leave it too late before making decisions and submitting your application.
Talking to your careers adviser before you apply is a smart move. They can help you weigh up whether it fits your current workload, and point you towards programs suited to your interests.
Ready to explore your options?
Uni at school won’t be the right fit for everyone, but for students who want an early look at university life, or a subject their school simply can’t offer, it’s worth serious consideration. Have a browse of our university resources to find courses, entry pathways, and more information to help you decide what’s next.
