Skip to main

Federation Access Studies Plus (FAST PLUS)

FAST Plus is the ideal pathway for students looking to build their academic English, strengthen their study skills and step confidently into university life.

Next intake: 01 Mar 2027
Learn more

Course essentials

Entry requirements

Locations

Berwick (on campus)

Course overview

Designed for Year 12 EAL students, recent arrivals to the Australian education system, or anyone aiming for a supported transition into higher education, FAST Plus focuses on developing the communication, academic and professional skills needed for long-term success. With no tuition cost and a reduced schedule of three units per semester, FAST Plus provides an accessible, manageable starting point for your university journey.

Students who successfully complete FAST Plus can gain entry into a wide range of undergraduate degrees at Federation University. Over two semesters, the course helps create a smooth transition into university, while building confidence and providing meaningful opportunities for your academic growth. You’ll receive personalised feedback, undertake resilience-building tasks and learn strategies to stay engaged throughout your studies. Many eligible units completed within FAST Plus can even be credited towards your future degree, giving you a valuable head start.
For students interested in Engineering pathways, FAST Plus offers an optional Introduction to Technical Maths unit that meets the entry requirements for Federation’s Engineering degrees. 

Whether you're preparing for a specialised field or simply seeking a stronger academic foundation, FAST Plus equips you with the tools, support and confidence to thrive at university and beyond.

IT requirements

To do this course you’ll need a fast and reliable computer and access to high-speed internet. Expect to use about 5GB of data per month for every unit you’re doing. Find out more about the minimum IT requirements for studying with us.

Got questions?

Call us on 1800 333 864, start a live chat or submit an enquiry.

Student support

The support we offer is second to none. Need academic help? No problem. Extra access or financial assistance? Let’s see what we can do. View our student services.

The fine print

The commencement of all courses is subject to available funding and enrolment quotas.

Everything in this course overview is correct at the time of being published. However, the University reserves the right to alter any course, procedure or fee. Please check for changes before you apply or enrol.

Federation University uses Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding (for eligible students) to deliver training.

School department

Preparatory

Course co-ordinator

Rachel Daniel

My educational journey with Federation University began with the FAST program. FAST unlocked my potential and led to my success in the Bachelor of Psychological Science."
— Jacinta, Bachelor of Psychological Science and previous pathways student

Fees and scholarships

Tuition fee information

Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)

Students eligible for a FEE-FREE Uni Ready place will not be charged a tuition fee for this enabling course.

Commonwealth Supported Places are subsidised by the Australian Government. The tuition fee is called the student contribution amount.

Other fees

You will also need to pay the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).

Scholarships

There’s a range of scholarships and grants available. Find out what you can apply for.

Course details

Start dates

Semester 1, 2027

1 March 2027

Locations

Berwick (on campus)

Semester 1
Semester 2

Entry requirements

Entry requirements (year 12)

  • A study score of at least 16 in English (EAL) and;
  • Year 10 Mathematics (or equivalent)

Please note: all applicants who have not met the English and Maths pre-requisites through Year 12 results will be required to complete a literacy and numeracy test to determine their eligibility for admission. In order to qualify for entry into FAST for Engineering, applicants need to complete the Technical Maths entry test.

Mathematical Methods or Specialist mathematics:
This only applies for entry into Federation University degrees that have the pre-requisite of mathematical methods or specialist methods (these require successful completion of our Introduction to Technical Maths subject, unit code EDMTH1000).
Students who have completed Foundation maths will still be able to enter FAST (general).  They will not be able to enter FAST (for engineering and mathematical sciences). If students wish to study engineering or any mathematical science degree they will be required to have a minimum of Maths: General maths (3&4) or Maths: Methods/Specialist (1&2). 

Applicants must be 18 years of age at commencement or have completed Year 12 or equivalent.

Entry requirements (non year 12)

Admission criteria for applications with a Vocational Education and Training study

Successful completion of a relevant VET qualification at Certificate III level or higher.

Admission criteria for applications with work and life experience

All applicants that have not met the English and Maths pre-requisites through Year 12 results will be required to complete a literacy and numeracy test to determine their eligibility for admission  In order to qualify for entry into FAST for Engineering, applicants need to complete the Technical Maths entry test.

Applicants must be 18 years of age at commencement or have completed Year 12 or equivalent.

How you apply will depend on your current situation – school leaver, tertiary background or life experience – and whether you’re also applying for courses at other institutions. Visit our how to apply page to find out more.

Ready to fill out your application? You might need these codes:

Direct application
Yes
Federation University code
FL0

Hear from our students 

Maddison talks about her experience studying education at Federation

Hi, my name is Maddie and I'm studying a Bachelor of Education. I'm specialising in inclusive Ed and I'm in my third year of studies. I chose to study at Fed Uni because it is close to home and because I had a few friends who were studying here as well. I would recommend federation to those considering studying because of the placement opportunities they have here. This year as part of my diversity placement I was given the opportunity to travel to the NT to a remote indigenous community. This option was available to all students in my degree in the third year and it was made even more accessible as the majority of the accommodation and flights were funded by the Uni Arunga. The community I was placed in was the most beautiful little community with wonderful students and incredible classroom facilities. I'm so glad and proud of myself for taking that leap of faith because now I have so many more skills and experiences under my belt. This opportunity will be something I'll happily share with anyone and we'll think about forever. I really couldn't recommend this programme more.

Related courses

    Federation Access Studies (FAST)

    If you thought that university was not for you because you don’t have the academic background or the study skills, or if you have finished year 12 but do not have the entry requirements you need to start a degree, the Federation Access Studies program (FAST) may be the pathway for you.
    Read more

      Advance to University

      Study first-year university subjects as part of your VCE, and get a taste of what the uni experience is really like.
      Read more