Tertiary Preparation Program - TPP
Applications now open
If you don't have an ATAR, haven't completed Year 12 or completed it some time ago, our Tertiary Preparation Program (TPP) unlocks access to our courses, while developing skills to set you on a path to university success.
Applications for Semester 2, 2025 entry close 7th July 2025.
Getting Started with TPP
The Tertiary Preparation Program (TPP) is a 100% online and free program designed to help you with returning to study.
You’ll complete a series of micro-units of study across a broad range of subject areas to build your academic skills and learner confidence to succeed in your studies, while unlocking a pathway into your dream course.
We’ll also be with you every step of the way with tailored student support and the foundational skills needed to succeed in your further studies with us.
Why complete the Tertiary Preparation Program?
Unlock a La Trobe Entrance Score
Earn an alternative rank to an ATAR as a pathway into your dream course*.
Apply for and start uni with confidence
Your tailored program will develop study fitness, build academic and communication skills and prepare you to overcome study challenges.
100% online, free and flexible
Study online and at your own pace, with access to dedicated tools, services and support whenever you need them.
*You'll be able to apply for all undergraduate courses, except:
- Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours), (Regional Entry), Bendigo
- Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours), Bendigo
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Medical), Bendigo
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Medical), Albury-Wodonga
Of course, you’ll also need to meet any other requirements for entry such as prerequisites or additional entry criteria (e.g. completion of the CASPer test for teaching courses).
What you’ll study
Our nationally awarded program is comprised of twelve micro-units spanning various subjects. Each micro-unit requires approximately 8-10 hours of independent study per week during a six-week term at La Trobe.
Our dedicated academic staff will be there to support you throughout your learning journey. While most TPP students opt for three micro-units per term to meet Centrelink study requirements, you have the flexibility to set your own pace and take fewer subjects.
Depending on the study plan you choose, you'll study a series of micro-units designed to build your learning skills. Topics include:
- Academic culture, writing and presentations
- Thinking mathematically and mathematical communication
- Critical reasoning and inquiry
- World-changing ideas in science
Foundation
The full program, TPP Foundation, will provide all the skills you need for success in your future studies. However, if you have completed high school in the last five years, you may request an expedited study (six micro units: TPP Intermediate).
If you have completed Year 10, have taken a break from studying, finished high school in another country, or are looking to access the full program, this path is for you.
- 12 micro-units: three micro-units per term, over four terms
Eligibility
The aim of TPP is to support your educational pathway into La Trobe University, TAFE, and the workforce. There are some selection guidelines for entry into the program. You must:
- Be over 18 years of age by 31 December in the year prior to commencing in the program (or 17 if you have completed year 12).
- Be an Australian or New Zealand Citizen, or Permanent Australian Resident.
- Have a readiness to learn.
- Have completed a minimum of year 10 secondary school studies or equivalent (please contact the Course Coordinator if you have not completed Year 10 and wish to apply), and
- If English is your second language:
- Have an English entry level IELTS score of a minimum of 6 across all bands, or equivalent.
Benefits
- Unlock a La Trobe Entrance Score and access to our undergraduate courses
- The Tertiary Preparation Program (TPP) is completely free
- Specialised services and support for your studies during the program
- Gain valuable and transferable skills for university success
How to apply
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Prepare and complete your application for the Tertiary Preparation Program
Prepare any supporting documentation, including proof of your highest educational attainment and/or English language skills if you did not complete schooling in Australia, United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada, New Zealand, or the Republic of Ireland.
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Complete the right program for you
TPP Foundation is the best preparation for future study success, however students who have completed high school within the last five years can request an expedited study (TPP Intermediate).
Please also consider required prerequisites for your destination course. TPP Foundation and Intermediate both provide the equivalent of a 25 in English required for most La Trobe courses. Only TPP Foundation provides the equivalent of a 20 in general maths.
If you apply for TPP Intermediate, to support your application, you must provide evidence of your completion of high school within the last five years, such as a transcript or completion certificate.
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Wait for your offer
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive an outcome shortly after application dates have closed.
Complete this form to receive info about studying at La Trobe.
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