Study load
Flexibility is one of the key benefits of studying through Open Universities Australia. You can alter your study load each Study Period – it's up to you.
When can I study?
OUA offers various study intakes in a year known as Study Periods or Sessions.
- Undergraduate (and some postgraduate) units of study are offered in four Study Periods a year. Each Study Period comprises 13 weeks. In 2011, Study Periods start in February, May, August, and November.
- Other Postgraduate units are offered in three Sessions a year. Each Session comprises 14 weeks. In 2011, Sessions start in February, July, and November.
- Most Vocational units run in Study Periods, although some vocational courses have Continuous units.
How many units should I do?
If you are starting undergraduate study for the first time or returning to study after a long break, we recommend you enrol in one Level 1 unit. You can enrol in more units in the next Study Period once you've developed an understanding of how online study works.
The study load of each unit is measured as Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL). Knowing the EFTSL of your unit will help you plan your studies and work out how much time you can expect to study each week.
- Part-time study: A single unit usually has an EFTSL of 0.125, and requires at least 10 hours a week of study time. One unit in a Study Period is considered part-time study.
- Full-time study: Two units in a Study Period usually adds up to a total EFTSL of 0.250 and requires at least 20 hours of study time each week. This is considered full-time study, and is recognised as such by Centrelink.
You can find each unit’s EFTSL on its unit details page. Not all units have a standard EFTSL of 0.125, so it’s best to check before enrolling.
The EFTSL of vocational units can vary from unit to unit. When enrolling in vocational units, be sure to follow the study plan advice of your academic provider.
Can I enrol in more units?
You can enrol in up to four units per Study Period or Session. However, this is not recommended in your first year, or even later, unless you have few or no other commitments. Studying slowly and steadily ensures a better chance of success. We generally recommend taking no more than two units a Study Period, which represents a full study load and is recognised as such by Centrelink for Austudy eligibility.
To take more than four units in a Study Period, you will need to demonstrate exceptional circumstances. Please contact our Admin team via Online Enquiry Form to apply.
