Direct application
Direct applications involve applying for courses directly to the institution. They are most frequently used for applicants for honours and postgraduate courses, students applying to private institutions and those applying for VET courses. Direct applications may also be used if you are applying at an irregular time, such as in the mid-year application period.
Keep in mind that this is only a general rule; some institutions and courses require students in the above categories to submit their applications through the Tertiary Admissions Centre . The application method for each course should be listed on the institution website or in the course handbook. If you are not sure or have special circumstances, contact the institution to check the application method for your course.
Tips for applicants
Do your research
Check out the course, its entry requirements and the method of application through the institution website or a hard-copy course handbook. Also check your institution ™s website for information about their application process.
Complete your application
If a ˜direct application ™ is specified, you will need to complete a direct entry application form and submit it to the institution. Depending on the provider, you may be able to do this online through the institution website or in hard copy. Contact the institution or check their website for details on how to apply.
Submit supplementary information
You may also be able to complete a supplementary information form to inform the institution about your previous work and life experience. This will be submitted with your application and might be used to support your application or as an alternative means of admission if you don ™t meet the standard entry requirements. These are most commonly completed by non-school leavers.
Submit supporting documentation
In some cases, you will need to supply certified copies of supporting documentation, such as academic transcripts from previous studies and proof of citizenship. You may be able to submit these online, by post or in person.
Complete extra requirements
Depending on the course, you may need to complete extra requirements in order to be considered for entry, such as completing a test, attending an interview, submitting a folio or completing an audition. Contact the institution for details.
Apply for special consideration
If you have suffered from some form of disadvantage (having a low-socioeconomic status or a non-English-speaking background, for example), you may be able to apply for special consideration from your institution. This may involve submitting a supplementary information form that details your circumstances or completing an application for an equity access scheme. Contact your institution for more information about their equity access schemes and special consideration, to see whether you are eligible and how to apply.
Meet the deadlines and pay any fees
Your institution will have strict deadlines for application dates, so it is important that you complete your application and submit any supporting documentation by the due dates to avoid missing out. Most institutions don ™t require you to pay an application fee if you submit your application on time, although applications received after the due date may incur a fee. Check with your institution for more information.
