The University of Newcastle is offering more opportunities for higher education to people aged from 17 to 20 who have not completed their Higher School Certificate or did not do well enough for university entry.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Kevin McConkey, said the University's Newstep program would offer a second chance to those who thought they had missed out on university study.

"The program's entry rules have broadened in 2007 to give young Australians more opportunities and access to higher education," Professor McConkey said.

"Newstep is a one-year program which prepares students for university life and study."

An information desk will be set up at Charlestown Square in the main court (near Gloria Jeans and Myers entrance) on Monday 22 January and Tuesday 23 January 2007 to offer prospective students advice about how to apply, study options and accommodation.

Applications will be available from the information desk but must be lodged by Wednesday 31 January 2007.

Information desk details

Charlestown square
Monday 22 January 2007, 10am - 4pm
Tuesday 23 January 2007, 10am - 4pm