Top three tips for writing a resume
About to start writing your course application resume? Our top three tips are:
- tailor your resume to your course
- demonstrate the link between your skills and the course
- keep it under two pages.
Start with your contact information and education, then tell us about your work experience and skills. You can also add a section about any awards you may have received.
Extensive work experience?
Write about work experience that is relevant to the course you are applying for. We want to know why you want to develop your existing skills to advance or change your career.
Do the new skills you will learn on your course complement your current skill set? Have you gained relevant experience at work, in the field or volunteering? Tell us about it.
Not much work experience?
Write about volunteer work, internships, work shadowing, workshops or classes you have attended – anything that is relevant to the course you are applying for.
When you list soft skills, explain how each skill relates to the course. For example, if you are applying for the Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Arts, you might write: ‘self-motivated: I started the photography club at school’ or ‘creative: I designed a new logo for the school soccer team’.
How to apply
The Deakin Application Portal has made applying for your ultimate course easier than ever. Plus, you can chat with our application experts on 1800 693 888 if you need support at any step.
How to navigate the application portal
To upload your resume:
- login into apply.deakin.edu.au
- navigate to the ‘Education and experience’ tab
- scroll down to ‘Professional experience’
- click ‘Add experience’
- click the ‘Upload resume’ button.
Got a question but can’t find the answer?
Here are some of the most asked questions our awesome future student advisers get about applying to Deakin:
Common questions
Skip to next topicWhat should I include in my personal statement?
Think of a personal statement like a job application cover letter. It should outline your motivation towards studying, your previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression.
For more information on future student services and courses:
I have submitted an application through VTAC, can I also submit an application directly to Deakin?
It depends on the course/s you're applying for, but generally, no. Get in touch with our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre on 1800 693 888 or via live chat to discuss your options.
For more information on future student services and courses:
What is SEAS?
VTAC's Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) is for those who may not have been able to reach their full potential for study due to a range of challenging factors. SEAS enables institutions to consider the circumstances you've experienced and their impact on your studies when making selection decisions.
For more information on future student services and courses:
What are SEAS aggregate points?
The Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) adds points to your aggregate to reflect the level you may have achieved if your circumstances had been different. This can increase your chance of receiving an offer but does not guarantee it. Deakin will give a maximum of 15 aggregate points per applicant.
For more information on future student services and courses:
When can I expect my offer?
Direct offers from Deakin are generally sent out two to four weeks post application. You can check the status of your application at anytime by logging into the application portal.
For more information on future student services and courses:
Can I speak to someone in person about my study options?
Yes! We regularly host events, including 1:1 consultations and information sessions, to assist you with study options and career planning. You can also connect with our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre on 1800 693 888 from 9am-5pm weekdays, or chat with a team member live online, Monday–Friday.
For more information on future student services and courses:
Can I include references in my application?
Yes, you can! References are required for our MBA but are also welcome for other course applications. If you don't have an academic record, a written reference is considered to be a strong supporting document. Keep in mind, references may enhance your application but don't guarantee entry.
For more information on future student services and courses:
Do I have to apply via VTAC if I'm not in Year 12?
If you're applying for more than one course in Trimester 1, you'll need to apply through VTAC. If you're applying for one course only, or multiple courses in Trimesters 2 and 3, you can apply direct to Deakin. Use our course finder to check entry requirements for your chosen course.
For more information on future student services and courses:
How do I apply for a scholarship?
Each Deakin scholarship has a unique set of entry requirements – be sure to check the individual scholarship page for full details on how to apply, as well as our top tips for scholarship applications.
For more information on future student services and courses:
Contact us
Apply with confidence. We are committed to giving you the guidance you need throughout the application process.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Email Future Students Team
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9918 9188
Email Deakin International
Enquire online