Ease your study load by up to two courses when you come to university full-time by completing the Headstart program in Year 11 and 12.

When you enrol in your university degree you'll be well prepared having already completed study at this level.

Plus, you would have made connections with USC staff and students - which means you've already hit the ground running toward success at university.

USC subsidises the cost of Headstart, decreasing the overall cost of your degree. From 1 January 2016, commencing Headstart students will not be charged any tuition fees for the first course they complete. If they choose to progress on to a second course the fee will be $400. Scholarships are available to eligible applicants to cover this tuition fee.

You could select a Headstart course in a subject area that you are interested in, that is not offered by your high school.

Many of our Headstart students, including Dana Larkin found that studying at a more advanced level can improve your performance at school as you'll be learning new academic skills and will have access to extra study resources.

Completed university courses can contribute toward your QCE. One semester counts for 2 credits.*

*The required standard of achievement is a grade of 4 on a 7-point scale, or a Pass grade.

Your OP score is still calculated based only on your performance at school.

However, you are expected to be able to manage your own studies and schedule of commitments.