Non-school leaver

Study at uni after a break

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Non-school leaver

Return to study with UC

Return to study with uc

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Whether you're thinking about university for the first time, switching courses, or returning to study after a break, finding a uni that accommodates your work, life, and family commitments is crucial.

A non-school leaver (or mature-aged student) is anyone starting uni following a year or more break after Year 12. Whether you’ve taken time off to travel, worked full-time after Year 12 for a few years, or taken time off to raise a family – it’s never too late to shape your future with a university qualification.

At UC, more than half of our students have returned to university after a break, so we know how important flexibility, teaching quality and student support are to you.

Our proven practical approach to learning, strong ties to industry and innovative Work Integrated Learning opportunities will get you to where you want to go. 

Why choose UC?

Top 7 in the world for reducing inequalities

Time Higher Education Impact Rankings, 2024

#1 for full time employment

Good Universities Guide, 2025

#1 for undergrad starting salaries

Good Universities Guide, 2024

Download your course guide

Learn more about pathways to study at UC, our support services, and scholarships

Learn about our study areas

Arts
Built Environment
Business
Communication and Media
Design
Education
Health
Law
Politics, Economics and Society
Science
Sport
Technology

Explore your entry options

We’ll consider a number of factors when assessing your application to study, including your academic history and relevant work experience. 

Year 12 results

Even if you finished Year 12 some time ago, you can still gain admission into your preferred course using your ATAR, UAI or TER.

Prior study

If you have completed a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification (Certificate III or higher), it can be used to gain admission into your preferred course. This may also apply if you've only partially completed the qualification. 

Professional experience

If you have at least one year of full-time professional work experience, we can consider it when assessing your application. Simply provide evidence of your employment with your application. 

A fast track to postgraduate study

Even if you've never been to university before, you may be eligible to apply for a postgraduate course based on a combination of your previous work experience and qualifications. 

Explore entry options

Balance study with your lifestyle

We know university is a big commitment, but one with life-changing rewards. If it’s been some time since you’ve studied, or if you’re feeling unsure about how you’ll balance your classes, assignments and study with your work, family and social commitments, we’re here to help.

Blended learning

Choose tutorials and workshops that suits your preferred time and day with in-person and online study options. Plus, access on-demand lectures where available.

Part-time study

Study part-time from the beginning, or switch to part-time at any point during your course.

Study online

Want to study remotely? Explore UC's 100% online and blended learning courses.

Explore flexible study options

Consider your study costs

Understanding the costs of studying a degree is an important part of getting prepared for university. There are lots of factors to consider, but it doesn’t mean that university is unaffordable.

As a domestic student, you’re eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place in all undergraduate and some postgraduate courses. You may also be eligible for a government HELP loan, which allows you to defer your remaining course fees and pay later through the income tax system. 

Learn more about fees and costs

"After high school, I was in full-time work for four years and I took time for some soul searching and to decide what I wanted to study. One day I decided to stop comparing my path to everyone else’s and just know that this was where I was supposed to be."

Keisha Preston
Bachelor of Communication and Media

Experience UC

Beyond your lectures, tutorials, labs and library time, there’s plenty of hours left in the day to experience a full and fun social life at UC. Join one of our clubs or societies, meet friends on campus for events, gigs or market days, or get involved in sport, art, music, languages and so much more. Join one of our regular campus tours to check out the learning spaces and facilities at our Bruce campus and hear about the services available to students.

Find out about life at UC
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Discover Canberra

Welcome to Canberra

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A vibrant city with a homely feel, Canberra has no shortage of things to do. We’re home to major events, nightlife, enticing shopping and a thriving café culture, while surrounded by beautiful national parks and reserves.

Our community is known for being friendly, welcoming and accepting, and we’ve repeatedly been named Australia’s most liveable city. We’re also one of the most affordable cities for students, making it easy to live an inexpensive lifestyle.

Learn more about living in Canberra

Campus accommodation

Campus accommodation preview

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If you’re considering relocating to Canberra for your studies, have you thought about staying on campus? With many affordable student accommodation options available, as an undergrad or postgrad student you’ll be at the heart of everything the UC community has to offer.

From the campus library, supermarkets, UC Hospital and medical facilities to cafés, bars and restaurants, you’ll have everything you need right at your doorstep. Explore our various on-campus residence options tailored to suit your needs.

How to apply