Indigenous Access Scheme
We consider your skills, experience and community work, not just your ATAR. Apply through the Indigenous Access Scheme to pursue a course you're passionate about and take the next step toward your dream career.
Apply to study at the NIKERI Institute
We value knowledge gained through experience. Admission to the National Indigenous Knowledges Education Research Innovation (NIKERI) Institute is based on alternative entry, with no requirement for an ATAR or high school graduation certificate.
Applications are assessed based on an online application, submission of required documentation, an assessment task and an interview conducted face to face or via phone.
Apply for a course via a Deakin pathway
Applying to Deakin is easy. Each pathway has specific criteria that you can follow during the application process.
Indigenous Entry Scheme
The Indigenous Entry Stream offers courses in optometry, medical imaging, medicine and psychological science for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Admission requirements and application forms vary by course.
Regional and Remote Entry Scheme
To help address workforce shortages in regional and remote areas, Deakin offers alternative entry pathways into select health and community services courses. Applications for the Rural and Remote Entry Scheme are submitted through VTAC.
Deakin Guaranteed ATAR
The Deakin Guaranteed ATAR can help you achieve your study and career goals, and get the university education you deserve. Applications are submitted through VTAC.
Financial support for your education
When you apply for your course, don’t forget to apply for a scholarship too. Discover our top tips for making a strong application for the best chance of securing a scholarship.
Not sure which course to apply for?
Explore a range of courses that align with your goals using the ‘Program’ filter. Deakin offers diverse programs, including those through the NIKERI Institute, designed to support your learning and development.
Get the support you need to succeed
Our First Nations students are a valued part of the Deakin community, with access to free study assistance and culturally appropriate support. At Deakin, we prioritise your success with tailored programs and guidance.
Rankings and footnotes
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
We deliberately use the terms Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Indigenous, First Nations, First Peoples interchangeably and in doing so acknowledge that while people have personal preferences, none of these terms are perfect and with that imperfection each carry nuanced residual forms of colonial power. This content is developed with the core value of respect.
Contact Us
We're here to support you. If you have any questions or want to speak to someone about your study options, you can contact us by phone or email.
NIKERI Institute
+61 3 5227 2538
nikeri@deakin.edu.au
Future students
1800 693 888