Question 1

Why is the selection month called a pool?

Accepted Answer

Piscine stands for "Swimming Pool" in French. It is given this name as it is a month of immersion, with every potential 42 student immersing themselves in the new daily challenges, many are “floating”, and, if they do not want to drown, they will have to learn to swim together.

Question 2

What is the pool?

Accepted Answer

The selection pool, or just the pool, is a test period that lasts 28 (twenty-eight) days. During the pool, you will discover the basics of programming, from scratch. There are no prerequisites of any kind: you do not need prior experience, you do not need a diploma, as long as you are over 16 years of age. The pool is extremely stressful, challenging, frustrating, fun, and very, very intense. Don't expect a break on weekends. There is no fixed number of candidates to be selected. This means that there is no competition between candidates, and anyone can be selected - as long as they learn to swim.

Question 3

When do you run pools and what are they?

Accepted Answer

Our pools run for 28 days (and yes it is 7 days a week). At 42 Adelaide we will be running pools 3 times a year. 2 at the start of each year and one in the middle. When you are particpating in a pool our campus is open 24/7 so we can arrive and leave at any time you prefer.

Question 4

What happens if I don't get selected, can I try again?"

Accepted Answer

Technically, yes. You only have one chance at the pool at the location you applied. You need to wait 1 year to try again. However, the pool is designed in such a way that both you and 42 can validate whether this learning model is right for you. If you are not accepted at 42 after the pool, this format may not be for you - and that's fine! There are many different ways to learn programming, and we recommend that you try other styles as well. In addition, you may be taking the place of someone who has never tried.

Question 5

What if I want to leave the pool early?

Accepted Answer

No problem. Candidates are free to leave the process at any time. The pedagogical staff would only be very grateful if you shared your reasons. Who knows? Sometimes talking straight to someone about it can change your mind.

Question 6

If I get selected, do I have to start in the same year?"

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend that you do, but we do not prevent you from entering later. Since the beginning of your journey is a continuation of the pool, it is much better for you if you do not interrupt your learning process. Also, if you know that you may not be able to start your journey right after the pool, it might be fairer to leave the place open for someone who is ready to start.

Question 7

Why is the selection "Bootcamp" called and Piscine or "Pool""

Accepted Answer

The word “Piscine” is the French word for “swimming pool”, meaning that everyone should jump into the water and learn to swim together while having fun. During the Piscine you will dive into programming together and learn about coding while having fun.   It is a month of immersion, everyone dives deep into new challenges each day, many are “floating”, and if they don't want to drown, you will have to learn to swim together.

Question 8

What happens during a Piscine or "Pool"?"

Accepted Answer

The Piscine goes for 28 days, you jump in and learn with your peers learning how to code until your hearts content. The Piscine is designed in a way to be able to test if the 42 learning model is right for you and that you have what it takes.   During the pool, you will discover the basics of programming, from scratch. There are no prerequisites of any kind: you do not need prior experience, you do not need a diploma, as long as you are over 16 years of age. The pool is extremely stressful, challenging, frustrating, fun, and very, very intense. Don't expect a break on weekends. There is no fixed number of candidates to be selected. This means that there is no competition between candidates, and anyone can be selected - as long as they learn to swim.

Question 9

What times do I need to be available during the Piscine?

Accepted Answer

The Campus is open 24/7 so you can arrive and leave at any time you prefer. The fact that it is 24 hours does not mean that they can you at the headquarters :), but that there is more flexibility in the time of your arrival and departure, or when you wish to learn.

Question 10

What happens if I want to leave during the middle of a Piscine?

Accepted Answer

No problem. Candidates are free to leave the process at any time. The pedagogical staff would only be very grateful if you shared your reasons. Who knows? Sometimes talking straight to someone about it can change your mind or we can help you find another pathway into technology that suits your needs.

Question 11

What happens if I dont get selected into 42 after the Piscine? Can I try again?

Accepted Answer

Not being accepted for 42 after the Piscine means that 42 might not be right for you. The Piscine is designed in a way that both you and 42 can validate if this educational model is the right fit for you. If you are not accepted for after the Piscine, we advise you to try different learning program. This is not the only way to learn to program and we can help you find a path that is right for you.

Question 12

If I pass the Piscine, when do I need to start?"

Accepted Answer

We will have 1 or 2 intakes into 42 each year after the Piscine or "Pool". It is best for you to start your studies with us as soon as possible, for the best results. It is much better for you if you do not interrupt your learning process.  That being said, we do not prevent you from entering later as if you know that you may not be able to start your journey right after the pool, it might be fairer to leave the place open for someone who is ready to start.

Question 13

What is 42?

Accepted Answer

The first 42 was École 42 in Paris, a free private programming school, opened in 2013 by Xavier Niel, a billionaire entrepreneur in the telecommunications industry. With a disruptive methodology, a model never seen and liberating philosophy, 42 achieved impressive results (100% of graduates were employed in France). Due to the great success, 42 opened a campus in Silicon Valley in 2016. Other schools around the world have partnered with 42 to offer the same experience. And so 42 | Australia was born.

Question 14

Why don't you have teachers?

Accepted Answer

42 is based on “peer-to-peer learning”, or peer learning. 42 students learn from themselves and in groups, seeking information and experimenting to the limit. Behind the projects and the pedagogy there is a team that carefully designs the context and the challenges and monitors everyone's progress.

Question 15

What is peer-to-peer learning?

Accepted Answer

Peer-to-peer learning, or peer learning, is a learning model in which participants learn from each other rather than from a single teacher. This exercises critical thinking, group work, communication and a sense of community. Members also evaluate each other and learn more from each feedback given or received from their peers.

Question 16

What is project based learning?

Accepted Answer

In project-based learning, students gain a deeper understanding of a subject through active exploration of real-world challenges. You learn by doing and critically evaluating the result, instead of simply following instructions and memorising.

Question 17

Who will evaluate the quality of my projects?

Accepted Answer

Your peers and our very famous "moulinette" system will evaluate the quality of your projects based on a score scale defined by the pedagogical team.

Question 18

Are there other 42 campuses?

Accepted Answer

Following the success of the first 42 in Paris, which opened in 2013, sister schools were opened and continue to open worldwide. About 42 are already established, and the list just grows. 42 Adelaide is the first campus in Australia.

Question 19

Why is it called 42?

Accepted Answer

Well, "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" of course. They seek the answer to everything and, for that, builds a super-intelligent robot capable of answering any question. When questioning the robot about the meaning of life, the universe and everything, he gave thousands of years to perform the calculations and discover the answer. That answer was just that number. 42 is our answer to how the education of the future can be.

Question 20

What is the history of 42?

Accepted Answer

The first 42 was École 42 in Paris, a free private programming school, opened in 2013 by Xavier Niel, a billionaire entrepreneur in the telecommunications industry. With a disruptive methodology, a model never seen and liberating philosophy, 42 achieved impressive results (100% of graduates were employed in France). Due to the great success, 42 opened a campus in Silicon Valley in 2016. Other schools around the world have partnered with 42 to offer the same experience. And so 42 | Australia was born.

Question 21

Are there other 42 campuses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are part of a worldwide network of over 30 campuses in 20 countries, with more than 10'00 students studying across the world. 42 Adelaide is the first campus in Australia.

Question 22

When will 42 Adelaide open?

Accepted Answer

The 42 Adelaide Campus opened in June of 2021 and had their first intake of students in september of the same year. If you would like to keep up to date the ongoings of 42 please follow us on our Facebook page facebook.com/42adelaide.

Question 23

What is covered on the learning journey?

Accepted Answer

You start by building the bases of your C knowledge and fundamental programming concepts. As you progress, you can explore introductory tracks in Unix, graphics and the web. The curriculum includes more projects in various fields of computer science: object-oriented programming, programming for mobile devices, functional, networked programming, artificial intelligence, 3D, and many others.

Question 24

How is the learning structured?

Accepted Answer

All 42 Network campuses share very similar project trees, with more than 100 projects structured on a graph we call the galaxy. When you complete a project, move on to the next one on the trail, until you can choose between different paths, to acquire different skills. Each student has their own unique experience.

Question 25

How long does it take to complete?

Accepted Answer

We believe that each person is unique and should be able to learn at their own pace. The first part of the course, known at 42 as the Inner Circle covers your foundational learning and this takes about 1 year. Statistically, completing the full curriculum usually takes about 2-3 years (allowing for internships). But it depends on you. Some may take less than 2 (two) years, while others may need 5 (five) years. It is not a race, it is a unique pace for everyone.

Question 26

How is the journey gamified?

Accepted Answer

You progress in the curriculum by completing projects and gaining experience points. With these points, you level up and unlock projects and specialization trails. You are also recognised for mastering specific skills and completing missions, or contributing to the wider community. Levels range from 0 to 21.

Question 27

How is the curriculum kept up to date with industry and current trends?

Accepted Answer

The original curriculum was created in 2013 by the 42 Paris team, which consists of veterans of computing and pedagogy in France. Since then it has evolved according to the cooperation of staff from Paris and other campuses, as well as companies and even students themselves, who can suggest and develop projects together with the pedagogical team

Question 28

How is the learning structured?

Accepted Answer

All 42 Network campuses share very similar project trees, with more than 200 projects structured on a graph we call the galaxy. When you complete a project, move on to the next one on the trail, until you can choose between different paths, to acquire different skills. Each student has their own unique experience.

Question 29

How is the journey gamified?

Accepted Answer

You progress in the curriculum by completing projects and gaining experience points. With these points, you level up and unlock projects and specialization trails. You are also recognised for mastering specific skills and completing missions or contributing to the wider community. Levels range from 0 to 21.

Question 30

How is the curriculum kept up to date with industry and current trends?

Accepted Answer

The original curriculum was created in 2013 by the 42 Paris team, which consists of veterans of computing and pedagogy in France. Since then it has evolved according to the cooperation of staff from Paris and other campuses, as well as companies and even students themselves, who can suggest and develop projects together with the pedagogical team

Question 31

Why don't you have teachers?

Accepted Answer

42’s program is based on peer-to-peer learning, so all students work together, teach, and learn from each other. Thus, at 42 Adelaide, you’ll be a teacher and a student at the same time. You can also count on a pedagogical team that helps you guide your curriculum and ensures the school’s running smoothly.

Question 32

What is peer-to-peer learning?

Accepted Answer

Peer-to-peer learning, or peer learning, is a learning model in which participants learn from each other rather than from a single teacher. This exercises critical thinking, group work, communication and a sense of community. Members also evaluate each other and learn more from each feedback given or received from their peers.

Question 33

What is project based learning?

Accepted Answer

In project-based learning, students gain a deeper understanding of a subject through active exploration of real-world challenges. You learn by doing and critically evaluating the result, instead of simply following instructions and memorising.

Question 34

What is a gamified program?

Accepted Answer

At 42, the progression in the program happens by obtaining points, as if it were a game. With these points, you level up and unlock new projects and learning paths. Your level defines how far you have progressed through the program, so the more points you earn, the further you get. After level 7, you enroll in your first internship and then you can start choosing your specialisation path, on your way to level 21!

Question 35

Who evaulates my projects and work?

Accepted Answer

Your projects are evaluated by other students based on correction criteria pre-defined by the 42 pedagogical team. You must evaluate your colleagues’ projects yourself, so you will have to save some time to do so.

Question 36

How do I apply to come to 42?

Accepted Answer

From time to time, we open registration and notify you through our website and social networks. The candidate must register and complete two games online, totaling a little more than two hours. It is important to remember that this test should not be done by cell phone, but on a computer. Not only because it takes time, but if you fail there is no way back and you can waste the chance. If you pass, you will be invited for a physical check-in to meet the staff and learn more about 42. Finally, you will cross the final frontier, the famous Piscine (pool) - an immersive training that lasts 28 days, super intensive programming that defines who becomes a lifelong member of the community 42. 42 only requires candidates to pass tests online and come to a check-in meeting before signing up for a pool.

Question 37

What are the requirements to apply?

Accepted Answer

You must be over 16, know how to use the mouse and keyboard ☺.  The determination and willingness to learn cannot be lacking either.

Question 38

Do I have to go to Adelaide for the selection process?

Accepted Answer

Online tests can be taken from anywhere in the world. During the Check in and the Piscine "Swimming Pool" phase, you must come to the Campus in person. This will be stepped out for you on our applications portal.

Question 39

How many positions do you have avaliable per year?

Accepted Answer

We will have approximately 200 places available per year.

Question 40

Do I need to know the basics in coding before appying?

Accepted Answer

No way! There is no coding experience required to be successful at 42. Globally our campus statistics tell us that about 50% of our "42 students" had no prior programming experience. And there is no evidence that those who already knew how to program do better than those who did not.

Question 41

I can already code, is 42 for me?"

Accepted Answer

42 offers a world-class curriculum that challenges students with projects of exponentially increasing complexity. Each problem is unique and requires you to think outside the box with your peers. Everyone, programmer or not, can find a very meaningful and rewarding path within 42

Question 42

When will 42 Adelaide open?

Accepted Answer

We are working towards opening in early 2021. Make sure you apply or register with us to keep up to date with next steps and timing. You can also keep up to date on our facebook page facebook.com/42adelaide.

Question 43

Is 42 free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you do not pay anything to be part of 42. We will not charge you either before, during or after your journey with us. The costs of transportation, food and accommodation (if you are not from Adelaide) are up to you.

Question 44

Is it possible to do 42 from a distance?

Accepted Answer

It is possible to work on your projects remotely, but it is only on campus that you have access to 42 servers. An essential part of journey 42 is traced through human interaction, with physical presence through our peer to peer pedagogy. This interdependence that you and your peers naturally share will drag you to campus.

Question 45

Can I work part-time while at 42?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can. This is not impossible. The experience we have with sister schools is that it is not easy, but possible. To be successful at 42, you will need to invest a large amount of time in your activities on campus (during the pool it is, on average, over 60 hours a week and during the normal day it is on average 40 hours). Because of this, working and attending 42 at the same time can be exhausting, so keep this in mind.

Question 46

Can I stop, then restart my studies?"

Accepted Answer

Although we do not recommend it, you can stop at any time. The journey at 42 requires time and dedication but we know that sometimes it is not possible to continue. Instead of simply stopping to come to campus, come and talk to the pedagogical staff to find a solution. If pausing at 42 is the best way out, this is possible. You will be welcome to continue your progress where you left off, and you have up to 1 year to return

Question 47

How do I apply to come to 42?

Accepted Answer

From time to time we open registration and notify you through our website and social networks. The candidate must register and spend two games online, totaling a little more than two hours. It is important to remember that this test should not be done by cell phone, but on a computer. Not only because it takes time, but if you fall there is no way back and you can waste the chance. If you pass, you will be invited for a physical check-in to meet the staff and learn more about 42. Finally, you will cross the final frontier, the famous Piscina (pool) - an immersive training that lasts 28 days, super intensive programming that defines who becomes a lifelong member of the community 42. 42 only requires candidates to pass tests online and come to a check-in meeting before signing up for a pool.

Question 48

What are the requirements to apply?

Accepted Answer

You must be over 18, know how to use the mouse and keyboard ☺.  The determination and willingness to learn cannot be lacking either.

Question 49

Do I have to go to Adelaide for the selection process?

Accepted Answer

Online tests can be taken from anywhere in the world. During the Check in and the Piscine "Swimming Pool" phase, you must come to the Campus in person. This will be stepped out for you on our applications portal.

Question 50

How many positions do you have avaliable per year?

Accepted Answer

We will have approximatley 200 places avaliable per year.

Question 51

Do I need to know the basics in coding before appying?

Accepted Answer

No way! There is no coding experience required to be successful at 42. Globally our campus statistics tell us that about 50% of our "42 students" had no prior programming experience. And there is no evidence that those who already knew how to program do better than those who did not.

Question 52

I can already code, is 42 for me?"

Accepted Answer

42 offers a world-class curriculum that challenges students with projects of exponentially increasing complexity. Each problem is unique and requires you to think outside the box with your peers. Everyone, programmer or not, can find a very meaningful and rewarding path within 42

Question 53

Why is it called 42?

Accepted Answer

It is allusive to the book series The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, by Douglas Adams. In the work, the author approaches a civilization that seeks the answer to everything and, for that, builds a super-intelligent robot capable of answering any question. When questioning the robot about the meaning of life, the universe and everything, he gave thousands of years to perform the calculations and discover the answer. That answer was just that number. 42 is our answer to how the education of the future can be.

Question 54

What am I going to learn at 42?

Accepted Answer

You start by learning the fundamental programming concepts and the foundations of the C language. As you evolve, you will begin to venture into UNIX, graphic programming, and web programming. After that, the curriculum includes projects with more in-depth knowledge in several areas: Object-oriented Programming, Mobile, Functional Programming, Web Security, Reverse Engineering, Malicious Code, Kernel Programming, Network Programming, Artificial Intelligence, 3D among others. Each student’s experience is unique, as you are free to choose between numerous projects and different paths according to your interests.

Question 55

How long does it take to complete?

Accepted Answer

We believe that each person is unique and should be able to learn at their own pace. The first part of the course, known at 42 as the Inner Circle covers your foundational learning and this takes about 1 year. Statistically, completing the full curriculum usually takes about 2-3 years (allowing for internships). But it depends on you. Some may take less than 2 (two) years, while others may need 5 (five) years. It is not a race, it is a unique pace for everyone.

Question 56

Is it possible to do 42 online?

Accepted Answer

No, all students collaborate at our campus, working with their peers. An essential part of journey 42 is traced through human interaction, with physical presence through our peer- to- peer pedagogy. This interdependence that you and your peers naturally share will drag you to campus.

Question 57

Can I work part-time while at 42?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. To be successful at 42, you will need to invest a large amount of time in your activities on campus, with many students spending about 40 hours each week on campus. Because of this, working and attending 42 at the same time can be exhausting, so keep this in mind.   During the Piscine (bootcamp) you will need to be available full-time for the 28 days.

Question 58

Can I stop, then restart my studies?"

Accepted Answer

Although we do not recommend it, you can stop at any time. The journey at 42 requires time and dedication but we know that sometimes it is not possible to continue. Instead of simply stopping to come to campus, come and talk to the pedagogical staff to find a solution. If pausing at 42 is the best way out, this is possible. You will be welcome to continue your progress where you left off, and you have up to 1 year to return

Question 59

Do I get a certificate of completion?

Accepted Answer

Yes. During your journey on 42, you will build your personal portfolio to get you started in your career and receive a 42 certification that is valued by over thousands of our hiring partners around the world.

Question 60

How does 42 prepare me for work in the digital world?

Accepted Answer

42 will not teach you how to solve a specific problem or how to use a tool. At 42 you will learn to learn, how to understand the tools you are using. After 42, you will be able to solve complex problems, because you will be used to think critically, seek, and share knowledge. We understand that technology changes very quickly and that it is more important for you to be able to keep your skills relevant throughout your career.

Question 61

Can I go back to 42 after I have finished?

Accepted Answer

Of course! Once 42, always 42. You will return as an Alumni. The doors will always be open for you. The community will benefit greatly every time a member returns to continue advancing their knowledge and share their real-world experience.

Question 62

Is 42 free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 100% tuition free.   We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to develop their talents and fulfill their dreams, regardless of their background and resources. We will not charge you anything before, during, or after your journey at 42 Adelaide.    This is possible thanks to the support of our partners and sponsors.

Question 63

Am I entitled to a government study allowance while at 42?

Accepted Answer

You may be entitled to some help depending on your existing payment.   Find out more about your entitlements on the Services Australia Website.

Question 64

Is there accommodation options for me if I am from interstate?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have a partnership with university living, who offer great prices starting from $209 per week for the 4- week Piscine.   This includes:   Unlimited WIFI; Electricity connection, Gas, Water and Telephone Line Rental; Secure swipe card access to the property, apartment, and bedroom; and Fully furnished apartment.

Ready to take on the challenge?