UniSTART Academic

UniSTART Academic

PRE-UNIVERSITY
Study load
Full time
Program code

SAUS2 / USACD

Duration
12 weeks
Application deadlines

Rolling applications

Intakes
Feb or Mar, Jun or Jul, Oct
Location
RMIT Saigon South
Program code
N/A
Application deadlines
N/A

Overview

UniSTART equips students with both language skills and discipline-specific knowledge, providing a solid foundation and the confidence to progress directly into an RMIT bachelor’s program.

The program’s subjects and supplementary activities are designed to gradually build and strengthen the capabilities needed to succeed in an international university setting. 

Through UniSTART Academic - students develop practical skills such as critical thinking, communication, advanced reading and writing - in the “Learning to Learn at a Global University” course. They then undertake a foundation course aligned with their chosen study area before commencing their bachelor’s degree. 

Students are encouraged to actively engage with lecturers for guidance, advice, and support on effective learning strategies at the undergraduate level. 

For those who have not yet met the English entry requirement, the English for University program at RMIT is available before starting UniSTART. 

Program structure

Note: The academic courses in UniSTART are non-award courses, with no credit going toward an undergraduate degree.

Learning, teaching and assessment

You will undertake a range of course activities, such as task- and problem-based learning projects, group work, independent and group research, case studies, class discussions and structured reflective practice.

You are encouraged to work closely with your teachers and seek advice about course content, assessments and study methods.

Assessments will help you and your teachers to monitor your development and support your ongoing learning, with feedback provided following each assessment. 

In resembling tasks that will be expected of you at undergraduate level, the assessments provide an opportunity to practice and demonstrate your knowledge of the subject matter and your readiness for higher education.

This program aims to increase your potential for successful study in higher education degree programs by building awareness of how you think, study and learn.

Through your transition to a dynamic, collaborative and international learning environment, you will develop practical learning skills to practise and enhance your ability to apply critical thinking to your studies, conduct research skilfully and present your work effectively in preparation for higher education degree programs.

On successful completion of this program you will be able to:
  1. Specify the RMIT values, learning culture and expectations and apply this understanding to build independence and confidence in both general and discipline specific contexts.
  2. Develop practical strategies for learning in a Global University.
  3. Achieve a level of critical thinking and reflection necessary to learn effectively in 1st year RMIT Vietnam University courses
  4. Demonstrate an understanding and willingness to adhere to RMIT values especially academic integrity.
  5. Demonstrate a level of proficiency in all forms of communication needed to study in first year University courses.
  6. Identify and apply independent and collaborative techniques and procedures that are relevant to a particular discipline.
  7. Develop and utilise discipline-based vocabulary that will aid their future learning
  8. Value discipline-based inquiry processes when compared (and contrasted) with other forms of inquiry. 

The School of English & University Pathways has a unique interactive class format, with the same learning and teaching approach and additional unique aspects specifically for online and blended classes. This gives flexibility to your learning with a mix of self-led and teacher-led activities.

Fees

Full time study load - 2 courses

VND

USD (indicative)

Tuition fee

45,024,000 1,718

Notes

  1. Program fees are priced and invoiced in Vietnam Dong (VND) by semester.
  2. Payment in other currencies will be converted to VND at the exchange rate on that day. Bank transfer is the preferred method of payment.
  3. The fees in USD are ONLY applicable to those international students who arrange for payment from overseas, as per Circular No. 32/2013/TT-NHNN.
  4. Medical insurance fees are subject to change without notice.
  5. Fees are indicative only and subject to change based on individual enrolment. These fees apply only to 2026. For further details and terms and conditions, refer to the 2026 Student Fees and Charges Guide (pending).

Entry requirements

  • High school graduation diploma with a minimum GPA of 6.0/10.0, or equivalent, for Grade 12
  • For other international qualifications please view entry requirements by country.

Successfully complete English for University (Advanced), or complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic) 6.5+ (no band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL iBT 79+ (with minimum score of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) 58+ (no communication band below 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) or Proficiency (CPE) 176+ (no band below 169)

For other international English entry requirements, please view English equivalency requirements.

​Note: 

Previous study and proficiency tests are recognised for two years from the completion date or test date to the program commencement date unless stated otherwise. RMIT does not accept scores from at-home or online testing.

Where you have achieved more than one form of English language proficiency only the most recent achievement will be considered in the admission decision.

Please contact the RMIT Vietnam Student Recruitment team for more information.

This course is not available for international students intending to study on a student visa.

Information for international students

Sorry, this course is not available for international students intending to study on a student visa. If you hold a different visa type, you may be eligible. Please contact Study@RMIT for more information.

 

Information for local students

If you are a local student please select 'switch to local' below to view the full course information.