Study load
At OUA you have the freedom to fit learning around your life, not the other way around.
If you're an undergraduate student, you can start in any one of our four Study Periods, and if you're a postgraduate student you can start in any of our three Sessions.
You can also fast-track your qualification by loading up on units, or take a Study Period off when you need a break.
So how many units should I do?
A single undergraduate unit usually requires 10-12 hours of study per week, while two units typically require 20-24 hours of study per week. The amount of study required for postgraduate units can vary, depending on your provider or course. For more information, please check the course details page, or contact your provider.
If you're starting higher education for the first time, or returning to study after a break, we recommend you enrol in one Preparatory unit, or one Level 1 unit. You can then enrol in more units in your next Study Period once you've gotten into a study routine.
Can I enrol in more units?
You can enrol in up to four units per Study Period or Session. However, this is not recommended unless you have few or no other commitments. We generally recommend taking no more than two units per Study Period or Session, to boost your chances of success.
To take more than four units in a Study Period or Session, you'll need to demonstrate exceptional circumstances. Please contact us via our Online Enquiry Form to apply.
Study and Centrelink
The study load of each unit is measured as Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL), a measure which is recognised by Centrelink. The maximum permitted EFTSL is 0.5 in a Study Period or session, or four units.
- Part-time study has an EFTSL of 0.125, which is the equivalent of one unit requiring 10-12 hours of study per week.
- Full-time study has an EFTSL of 0.250, which is two units requiring 20-24 hours of study per week.
You can find each unit's EFTSL on its unit details page - as not all units have a standard EFTSL of 0.125, it's best to check before enrolling.
