Self-paced Maths Bridging Courses FAQ
Q: I want to use the MathsTrack resources for my own revision. Do I need to contact the Maths Learning Centre or pay any money?
A: No. The resources are freely available on our website, so anyone can access them at any time. You only need to contact us if you want to formally start the course and get a certificate.
Q: How long do the courses take to do?
A: We think you should allow 4-6 months to complete MathsTrack, though it may take much longer if you have not studied maths up to Year 11 level before.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: The bridging course costs $265. (However it is free to access the resources from the MLC webpage.)
Q: Do I have to be enrolled at the University of Adelaide to be allowed to do the bridging courses?
A: No. In fact, you are able to use MathsTrack as a prerequisite in order to get into the University in the first place.
Q: How do I start?
A: Contact the MLC lecturers by phone (08 8313 5862), by email (
mathslearning@adelaide.edu.au) or in person (Maths Learning Centre, Level 3 East, Hub Central).
Q: I don't need MathsTrack as a prerequisite for university entry, can I still do the bridging course?
A: Yes, if you like. But there will still be a $265 charge to do the course.
Q: What if I change my mind and no longer want to do MathsTrack?
A: If you haven't submitted your first assignment, then just let us know and we'll remove you from the system. If you have already submitted your first assignment, then you still need to pay the $265.
Q: Is there an exam for MathsTrack?
A: No. The assessment is based on a written assignment for each topic separately.
Q: What is a 'Moodle'?
A: Moodle is an online learning system. It is the web-based system we use to manage the resources and communication for our bridging course.
Q: I want to do the MathsTrack course. Do I have to do the MathsStart too?
A: This depends on your prior experience. It's best to talk to the MLC lecturers about which of the MathsStart books you might need to do before starting MathsTrack.
Q: I have already studied some of the topics that are covered in the MathsTrack. Can I be exempt from doing those assignments?
A: No. You still need to do all the assessments. However, you shouldn't need to study the material so hard before you attempt the assignments.
Q: Is the $265 refundable?
A: No. This is why we wait until you submit your first assignment before sending out the invoice.
Q: Can I take longer than 6 months to complete the course?
A: Yes. You can take as long as you like. All we ask is that you keep in regular contact with us so we know you are still doing the course!
Q: I am currently in Year 12. If I start after I find out my Year 12 results, is there still time to complete MathsTrack and use it as a prerequisite for entry next year?
A: No. The University finance system can take up to 6 weeks to get an invoice to you (which becomes 8 weeks over the Christmas - New Year break) and we can't record that you have completed until you have paid. However, you may just have time if you begin after you complete your exams.
Q: How do I let SATAC know I am doing a bridging course?
A: There is a section of the SATAC form that asks about bridging courses - you can indicate you are doing MathsTrack there. SATAC will check with the University to see if you have completed the course when they calculate the university offers. We also recommend talking to an admissions officer at the University about the process of university entry (08 8313 5164).
Q: Is MathsTrack accepted as a prerequisite at other universities?
A: Usually this is not a problem, but it is your responsibility to check with the admissions office of the university in question to confirm on a case-by-case basis.
Q: Is there a bridging course to cover SACE Stage 2 Specialist Maths?
A: No. If you need Specialist Maths as a prerequisite for your preferred degree, we recommend talking to an admissions officer about your options (08 8313 5164).
Q: Does MathsTrack count towards a study load for the purposes of Centrelink?
A: No. Our bridging course is not part of any University degree or diploma program, and so doesn't count towards a full-time study load.
Q: I am deciding on school subjects to do in Year 12. Should I avoid doing Maths Studies at school and do the MathsTrack bridging course instead?
A: Definitely not! Firstly, MathsTrack is not recognised by SSABSA as part of the SACE. Secondly, it is much easier to learn maths in the school environment where you have face-to-face support from your teachers and classmates every day.
Q: My question isn't on this list. How do I find out more?
A: Contact the MLC lecturers by phone (08 8313 5862), by email (
mathslearning@adelaide.edu.au) or in person (Maths Learning Centre, Level 3, Hub Central).
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