The equivalent of studying the first year of the relevant Bachelor degree and allow students to upgrade their qualifications. Courses may combine academic and English language studies and usually run for two semesters.

Vocational education and training (VET) courses are often recognised by universities as prior learning, which can contribute to a Bachelor degree. Students must check the credit arrangements with the relevant university.

Graduating from a Queensland High School (Yr12) provides a direct pathway to university entry for eligible students. The 'Tertiary Entrance Statement' indicates the rankings for eligible students for tertiary admission.

Queensland's 10 universities have an impressive range of exchange agreements with high-quality institutions. Students can undertake an exchange for one or two semesters while gaining credit towards a degree.