In South Australia, the Upfront Assessment of Need (UAN) is for prospective students applying for government-subsidized vocational education and training (VET) courses through Skills SA. It evaluates course suitability and identifies any literacy, numeracy, or personal support needs.
In South Australia, the Upfront Assessment of Need (UAN) is for prospective students applying for government-subsidized vocational education and training (VET) courses through Skills SA. It evaluates course suitability and identifies any literacy, numeracy, or personal support needs.
The UAN is a mandatory three-step evaluation process required for students undertaking government-subsidised training in South Australia. It matches learners with the right course, identifies individual support requirements, and sets up foundational skills plans before an official training account is created
The Three-Step UAN Process
Suitability Assessment: A discussion or interview to verify that the chosen qualification fits your career goals, current skills, and expectations.
Support Needs Assessment: An evaluation to identify any personal, physical, or learning challenges so the provider can arrange appropriate assistance.
Literacy and Numeracy Assessment: A supervised online test measuring reading, math, and writing capabilities to see if extra foundation help is needed.
What Happens Next
Enrolment Decision
Carey Training will review your results to accept enrolment directly, recommend extra support, or suggest foundational training.
Training Account Creation
Once approved, your official student training account is opened and your studies can begin.
What to Expect on Assessment Day
- Location: Complete at Carey Training facilities or online via secure link for regional students
- Supervision: The literacy and numeracy component will be completed under the supervision of a Carey Training staff member.
- Timeframe: Expect the entire process to take between 1 to 2 hours.
- Cost: There is no fee to complete the UAN process.
https://providers.skills.sa.gov.au/tools/uan-process-summary
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I have to pay for the UAN?
No. The assessment is fully funded by the government and free for students.
What happens if my literacy or math skills are low?
You will not be permanently rejected. We will simply enrol you in extra, free foundational modules alongside your main course to help you keep up.
Can I get an exemption from the UAN?
Exemptions are rare. They generally only apply if you have recently completed an equivalent higher-level qualification or a similar verified assessment. Speak directly to Carey Training to see if you qualify.