Explore Indigenous pathway programs and support services for 2025
Many universities offer dedicated pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students — from alternative entry options to academic and cultural support. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can access a wide range of university pathway programs designed to build confidence, provide cultural and academic support, and create clear steps into higher education. These programs may offer alternative entry options, preparation courses, scholarships, mentoring, and dedicated support centres across ACT and NSW universities. Studying online can mean your university is located in another state — but support is still available. We have compiled a list of links to programs and services available in 2025 to help you explore what is possible and take the next step in your study journey.
Need help deciding what’s right for you or connecting with a university?
CUC Goulburn can guide you through your options, help with applications, and connect you with support.
Indigenous pathway programs
These are structured entry or preparation programs explicitly designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. They may offer an alternative to ATAR-based admission, provide academic preparation, or offer direct entry into degrees.
- UOW – Indigenous Admissions Program (IAP)
Alternative entry for applicants aged 17 years and over, with remote assessment options.
- UC – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation Program
A six-month pathway into undergraduate study through UC College, with support from the Ngunnawal Centre.
https://www.canberra.edu.au/course/215AB/2/2025
- ACU – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Entry Program
A supported admissions pathway with cultural safety, scholarships, and support.
- UNE – TRACKS Tertiary Preparation Program
A flexible online or on-campus program delivered through the Oorala Aboriginal Centre.
https://www.une.edu.au/study/courses/tracks-tertiary-preparation-program
- CSU – Connections Program
A five-day on-campus experience that may lead to guaranteed admission into select degrees.
https://study.csu.edu.au/why-charles-sturt/events/connections-first-nations-direct-entry-program
- University of Sydney – Indigenous Health Entry Schemes
Offers admission pathways into health-related degrees.
https://www.sydney.edu.au/medicine-health/study-medicine-and-health/indigenous-student-pathways.html
- UNSW – Nura Gili Pre-Programs and Indigenous Admissions Scheme
Provides alternative entry and preparatory programs.
https://www.indigenous.unsw.edu.au/future-students/indigenous-pathways-unsw
- UTS – Jumbunna Admission Program
Considers lived experience and offers supported entry with ongoing cultural and academic support.
https://www.uts.edu.au/for-students/admissions-entry/pathways/jumbunna-admission-program
- Western Sydney University – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pathway Program
Alternative entry program for prospective Indigenous students.
- Macquarie University – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Entry Pathway (ATSIEP)
Offers advice and direct entry opportunities into undergraduate study.
https://www.mq.edu.au/study/admissions-and-entry/pathways/schemes/aboriginal-torres-strait-islander
- UniSQ – Indigenous Higher Education Pathways Program (IHEPP)
An enabling course to support the transition into university study.
https://www.unisq.edu.au/study/degrees/indigenous-higher-education-pathways-program
- CDU – First Nations Pathways
Offers alternative entry and enabling courses for First Nations students.
https://www.cdu.edu.au/study/essentials/study-pathways/first-nations-pathways
Indigenous support centres and services
These centres provide cultural, academic, and personal support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students studying at university — before, during, or after enrolment.
- Woolyungah Indigenous Centre (UOW)
- Ngunnawal Centre (UC)
Supports students enrolled in UC’s foundation and degree programs.
Ngunnawal Centre
ACU – Indigenous Higher Education Units (IHEU)
Located on each campus, these centres provide academic, cultural, and mentoring support.
- ANU – Tjabal Indigenous Higher Education Centre
Offers community connection, cultural support, and access pathways.
- Western Sydney University – Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education
Provides support and programs across all campuses.
- QUT – Oodgeroo Unit
Offers pre-orientation programs and ongoing support for First Nations students.
- UNE – Oorala Aboriginal Centre
Delivers TRACKS and offers ongoing support to UNE students.