This is a university preparation course also called TPC that gives you a tertiary entrance score and access to university without the HSC. Study academic writing, maths, science, statistics, humanities and English at a local college or online.
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Write to an academic standard
Learn and apply new concepts and ideas
Develop research skills
Follow ethical practices and apply e-learning skills to study
Expand theoretical knowledge and gain practical skills
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally recognised qualification at a Certificate IV level
A Tertiary Entrance Score (TES)
A year 12 equivalent qualification
Strong pathways to continue your studies and enhance your career opportunities
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
Successful completion of your Record of School Achievement (ROSA) for year 10 as evidenced by a copy of your transcript or certificate or
Successful completion of a year 10 academic equivalent qualification as evidenced by a copy of your transcript or certificate
Participate in an interview with a teacher to make sure this is the right course for you
You may be asked to complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) profile so that you can be placed into the right class and so that you can access appropriate support if needed
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
The ability to learn independently
Access to a computer and the internet to conduct research
Sound technology skills
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
Our graduates go onto roles like: admission to university by getting a Tertiary Entrance Score (TES), pursuing further study at Diploma level or above in the Vocational Education and Training sector or in science, technology, engineering and maths vocational areas, pursuing careers requiring a year 12 or equivalent qualification and entry to the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
The Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation does not have any post-graduate courses.
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 10 units of competency, including 3 core and 7 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community
There are a total of 47 information sessions planned for this course. They'll take place at different locations across the state.
You can select a study option below to see the sessions available. Or you can view all sessions related to Foundation Skills, English Language and Auslan