Ease your study load by up to four courses (maximum of one course per semester) when you enrol in a related USC program after high school. This means, you'll have fewer subjects to complete to get your degree.

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

Plus, you'll have made connections with USC's support services, 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. Your first subject is free, and further subjects at a reduced rate.

If you choose to study more than one Headstart subject, the fee is $400 per additional subject. Scholarships are available to eligible applicants to cover this tuition fee.

You can select a Headstart subject in an area not offered by your school, that extends on your favourite subject at school, or use it as an opportunity to try out future career choices.

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.

^ Headstart does not contribute points towards other state senior certificates.

Students who successfully complete a USC Headstart course will receive a subject bonus adjustment (1 rank per course) to be applied to their ATAR score or selection rank under the Access USC scheme.