You’re ready to leave school behind and aim high at uni. But first, you’ve got a small hurdle to get over: how to prepare for university.
Good news, friend – we’re here to assist. These 5 quick tips will help you get into uni and settle into student life.
Preparing for uni can seem daunting at first, but if you follow these simple steps, you'll be on the right track for success in your new student life in no time.
1. Scope out admission schemes
The first step to getting ready for university is figuring out how to get into your university.
At UQ, we offer admission schemes to even out your path to uni. And even though they’re called schemes, they’re not at all evil – quite the opposite.
Admission schemes provide opportunities to increase your entry rank by considering your background, life events and even the subjects you studied. For example:
- If you come from a rural background, you could get 2 adjustments added to your entry rank.
- Studying a language other than English could also be worth 2 adjustments.
Learn more about our admission schemes
If you identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, consider applying for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Admission Pathway. Doing so can help you get into your preferred program.
2. Explore your pathway options
So, your entry score isn’t what you were hoping for. Or maybe you don’t meet the subject prerequisites for your preferred program.
It happens – and it’s not the end of the world.
From bridging courses to alternative programs, there’s usually a way to get your dream degree. We’ll help you find the right pathway.
3. Search for scholarships
While you’re working out how to prepare for uni, you’ll probably think a bit about how to pay for it. Luckily, you can sometimes make your uni experience easier and more affordable with a scholarship.
At UQ, there are plenty up for grabs.
Live in a rural or regional area? You may be eligible for a Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarship. You could pocket up to $18,000 towards your studies.
Of course, we offer a wide range of other scholarships based on things including:
- your socioeconomic or cultural background
- your sporting or academic ability
- the degree you’re interested in studying.
Now’s the time to explore your opportunities and take full advantage.
Discover UQ's full range of scholarships
4. Get to know your new home
Getting ready for uni sometimes means moving away from home. If this is true for you, our Accommodation Services team can help you explore your accommodation options. You can also get to know our campuses by coming along to Open Day or taking a virtual tour.
Unsure how accommodation for university students works? Read our handy accommodation guide.
5. Get connected
Universities provide a bunch of opportunities to meet and get to know fellow students. Connecting with others while you study is an essential part of the journey, and many graduates consider the lifelong friends they’ve made to be a highlight of their uni experience.
When you become a UQ student, you can join a bunch of student clubs and societies during Orientation Week (O-Week), where you can socialise with like-minded peers and discover new opportunities. It's your chance to build connections, ask questions, get advice and be part of a community with shared interests.
Find out more about student life at UQ
Once you get to uni, the world truly becomes your oyster. These quick tips will help you settle in faster, so you can focus on what’s next – whether that’s postgrad study or a lucrative career.
Get more tips and advice on how to make the transition from high school to uni a smooth one.
