What is U-STEP?

U-STEP is UTT’s Special Tertiary Education Pathway, designed for secondary school students who may not have the minimum five CSEC passes to continue their studies. U-STEP has been designed to give them an alternative pathway into tertiary education.

The dynamic portfolio of courses offered through U-STEP enables students to pursue and successfully enter a UTT programme. Students will be required to complete only the course(s) necessary to satisfy entry into their chosen programme.

The courses on offer are divided into four categories:

• Foundations: English A and Mathematics
• Science: Chemistry and Physics
• Technical: Mechanical Workshop, Electrical Workshop, Drawing
• Pre-professional: Criminology, Sports Science and Academic Writing

The average cost of a U-STEP course is TT $1800.00, and will be available throughout the academic year. Successful completion of U-STEP courses are required to gain entry into a UTT programme.

What are the entry requirements for U-STEP?

The following persons can apply for U-STEP:

• Candidates who have attempted CSEC examinations in Mathematics and English (A).
• Mature candidates who possess Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR).

NOTE: Candidates may be required to submit secondary school completion certificates, participate in an interview, and/or show evidence of extra-curricular and or community activities aligned to their choice of programme specific pathways.

What are some of the benefits of pursuing U-STEP courses?

• Seamless entry to tertiary education at UTT.
• Access to the university’s resources.
• A dynamic learning environment with experienced instructors.
• Remedial centres for Mathematics, Writing and Science.

How do I use U-STEP to access my chosen UTT programme?

The programme to which you apply may refer your application to the U-STEP programme. You will be guided to take the courses needed to satisfy your entry requirements.

What is the cost structure of the U-STEP programme?

Each U-STEP course is at a cost of TT $1800.00 and two courses are required for subject completion in the Foundations, Science and Technical categories. In the Pre-professional category, a single course is required for subject completion.

A non-refundable compulsory annual registration fee of

TT $600.00 is required for the 2022-2023 academic year.

Are U-STEP courses GATE approved/funded?

U-STEP has been designed to allow students to take and pay only for the courses needed for entry into their chosen programme. GATE funding is therefore saved for their future undergraduate programme.

What programmes are available after completing U-STEP?

Students can enter any of  UTT’s Certificate, National Engineering Technician Diploma (NETD) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programmes after successfully completing U-STEP.

How long will it take to complete the U-STEP pathway?

Each course is one semester long. The length of time pursuing U-STEP courses depends on the needs of the applicant. Subjects can be completed in a minimum of three months (1 semester) to one year (2 semesters).

The time needed to complete the pathway is dependent on the number of courses that a student is required to complete to gain entry into their UTT programme of choice.

Will a U-STEP transcript be recognised outside of UTT?

The U-STEP courses are meant to satisfy entry requirements to selected UTT undergraduate programmes. Students are advised to still pursue their CSEC or equivalent certification.

What is the mode of delivery for U-STEP courses?

Courses will be offered using a blended approach, i.e. a mixture of in-person classes and online.

Where will U-STEP be available?

U-STEP is available at the UTT John S. Donaldson Port-of Spain and San Fernando Campuses ONLY.

If I fail a U-STEP course, can I redo it?

You are allowed to redo failed courses in U-STEP.

For more information on U-STEP, please email ustep@utt.edu.tt