CDU - UniStart
An exciting opportunity for Casuarina Senior College students to get a head start on their university journey.
What is the CDU UniStart Program?
The CDU Academy – Uni Start program gives eligible Year 11 and 12 students the chance to begin university-level studies while completing their Northern Territory Certificate of Education and Training (NTCET).
Delivered in partnership with Charles Darwin University (CDU), the program allows students to complete selected university units and gain both
NTCET credits and
university credit towards a future degree.
Why Join the Uni Start Program?
Early university experience
Build confidence by learning in a real tertiary environment.
Boost your career pathway
Gain credits that count towards your university degree before finishing school.
Develop real-world skills
Enhance your independence, time management, and academic readiness for future study.
What You Can Study
Students can select from CDU units in the following study areas:
Health
Education
Arts and Society
You can start your studies in
Semester 1 or Semester 2, depending on readiness and unit availability.
Key Dates
(2025-2026)
| Stage | Date Range |
|---|---|
| Program promotion | Term 3, 2025 |
| Information session | Late Term 3, 2025 |
| Applications open | Term 4, 2025 |
| Applications close (Semester 1 entry) | End of Week 6, Term 4, 2025 |
| Interview period (Semester 1 entry) | Weeks 7–8, Term 4, 2025 |
| Offers sent (Semester 1 entry) | Week 9, Term 4, 2025 |
| Semester 1 program begins | Term 1, 2026 |
| Mid-year applications open (Semester 2) | Term 2, 2026 |
| Semester 2 program begins | Term 3, 2026 |
Who Can Apply
You may be eligible if you are:
A current Year 10 or Year 11 student progressing into Year 11 or 12
Demonstrating strong academic performance
Showing a clear interest in Health, Education, or Arts fields
Committed to balancing university units with school studies
How to Apply
Step 1 – Learn More
Attend the Information Session in Term 3, 2025, to hear from Casuarina Senior College and CDU representatives about the program and its benefits.
Step 2 – Apply add extra
Submit your CDU Academy – Uni Start application form, including:
A 500-word personal statement outlining:
- Why you want to join the program
- How it aligns with your career goals
- How you plan to manage your workload
(Optional) A teacher or mentor reference
Step 3 – Attend an Interview
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview with both CSC and CDU staff. The interview helps assess your academic readiness, motivation, and ability to manage university study.
Step 4 – Receive Your Offer
Successful applicants will receive:
- A formal offer letter
- Details of available CDU units
- Enrolment steps and orientation information
If you are not successful, you may receive feedback and be encouraged to reapply mid-year.
Support and Mentoring
Throughout the semester, the CDU Academy Coordinator and CSC Careers Advisor will provide ongoing support to help you stay on track.
You’ll have regular check-ins to discuss your progress, wellbeing, and any challenges balancing school and uni work.
Attachments
CDU Academy – Uni Start Application Form
Interview Assessment Rubric
CDU Unit Overview