Finding your path to university is easier than you think. Whether you didn’t get the ATAR you wanted, are transitioning from TAFE or returning to study, Deakin offers a range of pathways to help you reach your dream course.
If you didn't quite get the ATAR you hoped for in your final year of high school, you haven't missed your opportunity to study at Deakin. There are a range of pathways into your dream degree, and the traditional path from Year 12 to uni is only one of them.
| Transfer between campuses | Start your course at a campus with a lower ATAR requirement, then apply to transfer to your desired campus after completing the specified number of units. Browse locations |
| Transfer between courses | Apply to study a course with similar subjects or major sequences, but a lower ATAR, and use this as a pathway into your ideal course. Find a course |
| Associate degrees |
A Deakin associate degree in arts or education lets you study in a supported campus environment and provides a pathway into arts or education. Learn more about associate degrees |
| Deakin College |
A Deakin College diploma can provide a fast-track pathway into Deakin undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Learn more about Deakin College |
| Start at TAFE and transfer to Deakin |
Use TAFE study as a stepping stone into university. Related diplomas or advanced diplomas you've completed can count as credit towards your entry into Deakin. Learn more about TAFE pathways |
Using TAFE study as a stepping stone is a great way to transition into university. By studying a diploma or advanced diploma at TAFE and then applying to university, you'll graduate with two qualifications: one from TAFE and one from Deakin – turning you into a highly employable graduate on a path to success.
| Entry from TAFE to Deakin |
By studying certain courses at one of Deakin's TAFE partners, you could gain entry into the Deakin course of your dreams, giving you the confidence and reassurance you need to concentrate on your goals. Learn more about TAFE pathways |
| Recognition of prior learning (RPL) |
If you're completing a TAFE course that doesn't offer a pathway into Deakin, you could still use recognition of prior learning to gain credit for the work you've already done and reduce the amount of units you do at Deakin. Learn more about RPL |
Let us show you how to advance your professional life while balancing study around your important personal, family and work commitments. Coming to university to get your first degree, starting fresh after not finishing a previous degree, or even taking on postgraduate study are great ways to enhance your career prospects.
| Recognition of prior learning (RPL) |
If you're completing a TAFE course that doesn't offer a pathway into Deakin, you could still use recognition of prior learning to gain credit for the work you've already done and reduce the amount of units you do at Deakin. Learn more about RPL |
| Associate degrees |
A Deakin associate degree in arts or education lets you study in a supported campus environment and provides a pathway into arts or education. Learn more about associate degrees |
| Entry from TAFE to Deakin |
By studying certain courses at one of Deakin's TAFE partners, you could gain entry into the Deakin course of your dreams, giving you the confidence and reassurance you need to concentrate on your goals. Learn more about TAFE pathways |
Did you know there is more than one path into your dream bachelor degree? Whether you've just finished school or are looking to get back into study, discover your pathway to university no matter your ATAR or education history.
No matter your education history, we're here to help you find a pathway into university. Try our Pathway finder tool and explore the courses that may be available to you.
As well as being able to transfer between campuses and courses, you can also transition from TAFE, fast-track via Deakin College or start with an associate degree.
Related diplomas or advanced diplomas you've completed at TAFE can count as credit towards your entry into Deakin.
A Deakin College diploma can provide a fast-track pathway into Deakin undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
A Deakin associate degree in arts or education offers a supported campus environment and a pathway into these fields.
At Deakin, we believe everyone should have access to high-quality education, offering more opportunities across courses for better career outcomes.
The Indigenous Access Scheme recognises the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, considering the skills, experience and community work that prepares you for study.
The Special Entry Access Scheme acknowledges factors that can disrupt your studies, like illness, financial hardship and natural disasters, and improves your chance of securing a place in your dream course.
Boost your chances of getting into your dream degree with the Regional and Remote Entry Scheme. Year 12 students in regional and remote areas may be eligible for an alternative entry pathway into select sport and health courses.
Do you attend an under-represented school, live or study in a rural or regional location or come from an Indigenous background? At Deakin, we are providing lower upfront guaranteed ATARs for eligible students from under-represented cohorts, so you can secure a place in the course you want.
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
It's only natural to have lots of questions as you prepare for uni. Whether you want to learn more about our entry pathways or need advice, we're here to help you.
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