Six things people get wrong about studying online at UC

Reality: Applying to a UC Online course or programme is completely free.

Whether you’re a domestic or international applicant (even if you’ve previously studied overseas) there’s no fee to apply to one of our online courses or programmes.

While some universities charge between $85 and $100 just to submit an application, we believe that applying to study should be simple and accessible from the start, and our enrolment advisors will help you find an alternate pathway to study, if you don't meet all the requirements. 

Reality: You have time to try things out.

Programme learners have the first two weeks of their study to finalise payment or withdraw with a full refund. 

This gives learners the opportunity to explore the course content, become familiar with the online learning environment, and make sure the programme is the right fit. If you need any support along the way, our dedicated online Enrolment and Learner Support teams are here to help. 

Interested in a short course or micro-credential? The withdrawal window differs depending if your course is 5, 20, or 50 hours, but you still have flexible options, outlined in our FAQ.

It's a common misconception, but studying with UC Online doesn't mean watching recordings of in-person lectures. Instead, learning is built around bite-sized, interactive study modules. 

You might log in after work, move through readings and quizzes, watch a short expert video or animation, and contribute to an online discussion before logging off in time to put the kids to bed. 

Our learning is specifically designed for digital delivery, which means our team of expert learning designers and media producers work with UC academics and industry experts to create engaging online experiences. 

Reality: You can pay as you go.

Learners don’t need to pay for their whole programme in advance. Instead, they can pay term-by-term or semester-by-semester, depending on their programme.

This flexible approach helps make study more manageable and allows learners to plan their finances around their learning journey.

We recommend exploring the wide range of payment options available (from StudyLink support to employer invoice), and UC Online and UC scholarships you might be eligible for. Many learners miss out on scholarships simply because they don't apply!

Reality: online learners are part of a learning community, with dedicated online support teams.

Even though study is flexible, learners are still connected to their online classmates during each course. 

Through online discussions and synchronous (live online) sessions, learners can interact with their fellow students and connect with course facilitators. This helps build a supportive online learning community where you can share experiences and grow together. 

Learners are also supported by two dedicated online support teams. Our Enrolment Support Team helps prospective learners explore courses, understand entry requirements, and navigate the application process. Once enrolled, our Learner Support Team provides ongoing guidance from support with time-management, getting back into study, pastoral care, and referrals to other support services. 

Tuihono UC | UC Online is designed to take UC's expertise beyond campus to reach learners of all ages and backgrounds. Learn more about how online study works, current online course options, or chat to our Enrolment Support Team about your future learning journey.