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News from our institutions – September 2026

02 Sep 2026

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ACAP scholarships and bursaries

ACAP proudly offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support talented students, making education more accessible while recognising excellence, leadership, and potential.

With options for undergraduate and postgraduate study, these provide financial support to help new students focus on learning and future careers. View ACAP scholarships and bursaries

Calm and Conquer workshop

A free online workshop designed for Year 12 students, parents and supporters, providing practical strategies to manage exam stress, improve study effectiveness, build resilience and approach exams with greater confidence and wellbeing.

ACAP online information session – Psychology

Discover where a psychology qualification can take you in this live online session presented by Professor John Reece. Learn about psychology career pathways, ACAP's courses, flexible study options, and hear how studying psychology can lead to meaningful and rewarding careers.

ACAP online information session – Social Work

Presented by Professor Annie Venville, this online session explores the impact of social work, potential career opportunities and ACAP's study pathways, helping future students understand how they can make a positive difference in their communities.

ACAP online information session – Criminology

Join Matthew Thurgood to explore the fascinating world of criminology, including career opportunities in investigations, intelligence, criminal justice and crime prevention, while learning about ACAP's study options and industry-focused approach.

ACAP online information session – Counselling

Presented by Dr Marie Boulianne, this session provides an overview of counselling studies at ACAP, exploring careers that support individuals, families and communities, while outlining course pathways and flexible study opportunities.

Missing a prerequisite in biology or mathematics?

ACU now offers free short courses in mathematics and human biology designed to build confidence in key subject areas and act as a pathway to meeting prerequisites in some of ACU's most popular courses.

Delivered online, each course consists of 20 hours of flexible, self-paced learning, allowing students to study at a time and place that suits them. No application needed. Enrolments open on Mon 28 Sep 2026.

Students seeking to use these courses to meet a pre-requisite for entry for semester 1, 2027 need to complete the short course and then sit an ACU entrance test. Tests will be offered on all ACU campuses on Thu 3 Dec 2026.

Entry pathways for Year 12 students

At ACPE, entry isn't solely based on your ATAR. ACPE recognises prior learning and offer pathways for Year 12 students. Students are encouraged to find the pathway that works for them.

Experience the creativity of the ACPE Dance Showcase

Celebrate the talent, passion and creativity of ACPE's dance students at their highly anticipated end-of-year performance. The showcase features original works by talented staff and student choreographers, including featured choreographer Ashleigh Veitch, as well as works by Millie Slennett, Cassidy McDermott Smith, and emerging student artists. A must-see event for dance enthusiasts, students and families. 

ACPE Schools Program

The ACPE Schools Program delivers dynamic workshops for Years 10 to 12 students across sport, health, physical education, dance, and coaching. Designed to inspire and engage, these sessions connect classroom learning with real-world study and career opportunities. 

Visit campus or speak to the ACPE team

Choosing the right course is a big decision. Whether students prefer an on-campus tour, an online meeting, or a phone consultation, ACPE's friendly team can help them discover the right study pathway and answer their questions. Book a personal consultation

ACPE scholarships

ACPE has a range of scholarships designed to recognise potential, support academic success, and help students achieve their goals. 

New Sydney accommodation for nursing students

Students studying nursing degrees at Avondale University's Sydney campus now have access to purpose-designed accommodation at The Quarters, conveniently located within the Clinical Education Centre (CEC) in the Sydney Adventist Hospital precinct. Living at The Quarters means students are just moments from classes, practical learning experiences and campus facilities, while enjoying easy access to the wider Sydney region.

For more information visit Avondale University’s Accommodation page.

Scholarships

Explore a wide range of scholarships at Avondale University, designed to recognise achievement, support students' goals and help make study more accessible. Find out more about Avondale University scholarships.

New Bachelor of Business at CSU

With Charles Sturt University's newly revamped Bachelor of Business, students don't have to limit themselves to just one career path.

Designed in partnership with industry, the new Bachelor of Business gives students the freedom to build a degree around their interests and career goals. They'll start by developing a strong foundation in business before choosing from majors including Accounting, Business Analytics, Finance, Human Resource Management, Management and Leadership, or Marketing. Students can then customise their degree with a second major, minors or electives without adding any extra time to their degree. They can combine business with other fields such as Agribusiness, Cyber Studies, Forensics, Investigations, Artificial Intelligence, Psychology, or Dispute Resolution to create a qualification that's uniquely theirs.

The degree has been redesigned for the future workplace, with digital capability, artificial intelligence, data analytics and business technology embedded throughout. Students will graduate with the skills employers are looking for in a rapidly changing world. They'll gain hands-on experience through real-world projects and work-integrated learning opportunities that help them apply their knowledge, build professional networks and graduate career-ready.

Applications open for $20,000 engineering scholarship

Charles Sturt University is offering 27 Transgrid Engineering Scholarships worth $20,000 each for engineering students starting in 2027.

The scholarship is designed to help students focus on their studies, with half the funding paid upfront and the flexibility to spend it where they need it most – from study resources and technology to accommodation and living expenses.

It can also be combined with other Charles Sturt scholarships, including accommodation scholarships.

Alongside financial support, Charles Sturt's Bachelor of Engineering gives students a head start on their career.

  • Foundational common first year before students need to choose their major.
  • Choose from civil, electrical or mechanical engineering majors.
  • 2+2 structure: first two years completed at the Bathurst campus, then final two years in paid industry cadetships, working on real engineering projects.

Applications are now open.

Students can apply now to get a scholarship offer before their UAC course offer. Applications close on Fri 20 Nov 2026. Apply for a Transgrid Engineering Scholarship
 

Study at CQU in 2027: important application dates

Students looking to study with CQU in 2027 should be aware of upcoming application dates.

For some courses, UAC applications close earlier than others*:

If students have questions before they apply, they can phone 13 27 86 or book a conversation with a CQU team member.

*Application closing dates are subject to change. For the latest information, visit UAC's course search or CQU's course pages. You can also register your interest and stay informed about course updates and important timelines in the application process.

Balancing Elite Sport with University Study webinar

Join the Balancing Elite Sport with University Study webinar to discover how Griffith University, Australia's exclusive Olympic Pathway University, supports student-athletes to achieve success both on the field and in the classroom. Students can learn about Griffith's partnership with the Australian Olympic Committee, sports scholarships, pathways into Griffith, support through Griffith Sports College, and practical strategies for balancing training, competition and study.

Griffith University Treasury Building webinar

What could studying in Brisbane’s CBD mean for your students' university experience? Year 12 students are invited to join our exclusive webinar to discover how Griffith’s new Treasury Building location could reshape the way they learn, connect and prepare for their future career in business, government, law and IT.

Healthcare and Teaching Careers Evening

Are your students wanting to transform people’s lives and make an impact? They can join us at our Logan campus and discover the pathways to study teaching, nursing, midwifery, social work, and human services. They can speak to our teaching experts, tour our facilities, attend info sessions and learn how careers in essential services are always in demand.

Griffith University’s Academic Bootcamp applications close soon 

Delivered over four days during the September school holidays, these sessions help Year 12 students prepare for external exams, reduce stress and build confidence. Sessions focus on maths and science. Early bird pricing is available. 

JMC scholarships

JMC has a range of scholarships for commencing students in 2027.

  • The JMC Design Scholarship is available for application now.
  • Coming soon: JMC Excellence Scholarship – a merit-based scholarship for commencing students that have demonstrated creative excellence in their audition, portfolio or HSC studies. Applications open in late September.

Faculty of Science and Engineering Discover Lecture Series 

For students who are starting to explore science or are already passionate enthusiasts, these monthly talks are suitable for ages 10 and up, offering inspiring insights and a glimpse into the technological advancements shaping our future. 

Upcoming lectures:

  • Thu 22 Sep, 6.15pm to 7.30pm, Coding with care: The power of compassion in the classroom. Hosted by Charanya Ramakrishnan
  • Wed 21 Oct, 6.15pm to 7.30pm, Beneath Our Feet: Understanding the Ground That Supports Our World. Hosted by Dr Golnaz Alipour Esgandani.

More details and register

Macquarie University Incubator Ideas Challenge: applications close 4 Sep

Applications are now open for Cohort 5 of the Ideas Challenge, running across Terms 3 and 4, 2026. Delivered by Macquarie University Incubator in partnership with Young Wisdom, this free, fully funded online program invites students in Years 9 to 12 across NSW to develop innovative ideas that tackle real-world problems while building valuable skills such as creative thinking, problem solving, collaboration and pitching.

Successful applicants will take part in interactive online workshops, access expert mentorship, and complete flexible challenges through Google Classroom, earning Macquarie University-issued microcredentials along the way.

Applications close at 8pm Fri 4 Sep 2026

[EX]plore Science Extension Conference: 14 Sep

Students are invited to Macquarie University for a full-day conference showcasing the research of Year 12 HSC Science Extension students. Designed as an authentic research experience, the event brings together school students, undergraduates and PhD researchers to share a passion for science through presentations, posters, networking opportunities and Faculty of Science lab tours. Prizes will be awarded for outstanding presentations. Year 12 students can register independently and will present their work at the conference, while Year 10 and 11 students must be registered by a teacher. 

Astronomy Open Night: 19 Sep

Sydney’s most spectacular night of science and stargazing returns this September. Whether you’re a lifelong astronomy enthusiast or simply curious about the universe, Astronomy Open Night offers an unforgettable evening for all ages.

Discover exciting new highlights, including The Big Cosmic Q&A, where you can put your questions to our experts, and So You Like Science – What Now?, a special session for students planning their next steps after high school. You can also explore our new experimental short film festival, Stories Across Worlds, featuring works from the Archival Futures Collective.  

Museum After Dark: Monstrous! Creative Arts Competition 

On the evening of 29 October the Gale History Museum at Macquarie University will be hosting its third annual Halloween event. Museum After Dark: Monstrous! is open to the general public. 

The event will explore mythical monsters in creative ways. There will be, crafting activities, scavenger hunts and displays with performances that bring to life interactions between objects, myth and storytelling. From the fantastical encounters of the Odyssey to journeys into the Underworld; there are many rich tales to tell.

In conjunction with the event the museum will also be hosting a creative arts competition, offering a cash prize to the winner. The competition will have a dedicated prize category for high school students. So, encourage your students to start thinking creatively about monsters for their chance to win.

SAE Create for a Day

Create for a Day is a hands-on school holiday experience where future creatives can work on real projects across disciplines such as animation, audio, film, games, design, music, VFX and computer science, while exploring SAE's industry-standard facilities and experiencing what it's like to study there.

  • Sat 3 Oct, 10am to 3pm

SAE scholarships and bursaries

SAE scholarships and bursaries invest in future industry professionals by rewarding creative skills, academic excellence and strong leadership.

SAE offers a range of domestic and international scholarships to assist students during their studies, including partial tuition scholarships and direct cash bursaries. These initiatives are designed to support aspiring creatives, including students from regional and remote areas who may require assistance with the cost of living while studying on campus.
 

UNE Cover Artist of the Year competition: From your wall to the world

Calling all young artists! Have your artwork featured on the cover of the UNE’s 2028 Course Guide, distributed nationally throughout 2027.

  • Eligibility: Students in Years 9 to12.
  • Theme: Unconventional.
  • Format: Open to all 2D mediums including painting, drawing, illustration, graphic design and mixed media.
  • Recognition and prizes: The winning artwork featured on the cover of the 2028 UNE Course Guide and $5,000 award. Plus, additional awards for outstanding entries. All finalists work exhibited at the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM).

Entries open from 3 to 23 September 2026.

Download the 2027 UNE Course Guide

The UNE Course Guide is a helpful resource for high school students exploring undergraduate study options. It details courses, entry pathways, campus life, support services and UNE's flexible learning approach.

Questions? Get in touch

UNE has a specialised Future Students Team, dedicated to guiding students through the process and answering any questions they might have. Call 1800 818 865, live chat or email earlyentry@une.edu.au.

Upcoming events

Education Immersion Day

Students in Years 10 to 12 are invited to an interactive Education Immersion Day, designed for students who are curious about a career in teaching, education and working with children and young people. Get a taste of university life and discover what it’s like to be an education student at Notre Dame. 

New program – UniPath in Schools – now open for applications

UniPath in Schools is a FEE-FREE Uni Ready program that allows students to begin their route to university while completing Year 11 or 12.

Designed for students who are uncertain about meeting ATAR entry requirements for university study, UniPath in Schools will help them develop the academic skills and knowledge that will enable a smooth transition into their first year of study. Students can study on Notre Dame’s Sydney campus or at one of their study centres and experience a little of university life. Once they have completed UniPath in Schools, together with their high school certificate, students can be confident of a successful start to their undergraduate degree.

Notre Dame Study Centres in Oran Park and Auburn

Notre Dame is now offering courses towards certain undergraduate degrees through the Notre Dame Study Centres in Oran Park and Auburn. In their first year, students can choose to complete two courses at the Study Centre and two at Notre Dame's Broadway campus. Study Centre lectures are delivered online, combined with in-person tutorials, featuring small group learning and pastoral support. Register for the info nights at Auburn or Oran Park to discover more.

MyGadigal Scholarship

The University of Sydney is committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to access and succeed at Sydney through the new MyGadigal Scholarship. Eligible students will automatically receive an $8,500 scholarship per year to support their university journey. There is no additional application required beyond the Gadigal Entry Program.

The MyGadigal Scholarship complements a range of support available to First Nations students, including the Gadigal Entry Program, Extended Bachelor's Programs, and the support offered through the Gadigal Centre.

Questions? Contact the Indigenous Recruitment team at: indigenous.recruitment@sydney.edu.au.


Women in engineering scholarship and scheme

Women interested in studying engineering, computer science or project management at the University of Sydney can now apply for a Women in Engineering scholarship and gain access to an early conditional offer.

As part of a $2.5 million investment to support the next generation of women in STEM, the University of Sydney is offering 300 scholarships, each valued at $10,000 or $5,000 for one year. Successful applicants will receive an early conditional offer with a reduced ATAR entry requirement.

Applications are assessed on a rolling basis, with successful applicants notified throughout the application period. Students should check their eligibility and apply before Wed 30 Sep.

Sydney Conservatorium of Music Audition Information Evening (online) – Thu 3 Sep

Join the online Sydney Conservatorium of Music Audition Information Evening and discover how to prepare for a successful audition. Students can learn what to expect on the day, how to showcase their strengths, and how to present their best audition. They'll also hear from expert staff, explore courses and entry requirements, and have the opportunity to ask questions.

Sydney College of the Arts Portfolio Evening (in person and online) – Wed 16 Sep

Join the Sydney College of the Arts (SCA) Portfolio Evening in person or online and receive personalised, expert feedback on your portfolio, an essential part of your application to study at the SCA. This is a great opportunity to connect with academic staff, and learn more about SCA courses, portfolio requirements, and the submission process.

Parent webinar: What's the deal with Dalyell? Introduction to the Dalyell Scholars Stream – Mon 28 Sep

The Dalyell Scholars Program at the University of Sydney is designed for high-achieving undergraduate students with an ATAR of 98 or above (or equivalent). It offers a rich academic experience through accelerated study options, advanced units, mentoring, and professional skill development.

But what does this mean for your young person – and how does it differ from a standard degree? Together, we’ll take a firsthand look at the unique advantages and opportunities this prestigious program provides for high-achieving students.

Topics will include: 

  • what the Dalyell Program is and how it differs from other degrees
  • enrichment opportunities beyond the classroom
  • the Dalyell student experience.

The session will provide a clear understanding of what it means to be a Dalyell Scholar – and how this program can help your young person thrive at university and beyond.

Term 3 and Term 4 Webinar Wednesday series

Designed for students in Years 10 to 12, the Webinar Wednesday series offers insights into studying a wide range of degrees at the University of Sydney, with guidance on preparing for university and choosing the right course. Upcoming Term 3 and Term 4 episodes will cover biomedical engineering, Bachelor of Arts, project management, business, speech pathology, and more.

Book a school visit or appointment

Whether you're planning a Year 12 pathways presentation, careers information session, parent evening or would like to discuss options for your students, the UNSW College team is here to support you.

Book a school visit or a one-on-one appointment to learn more about UNSW College diplomas.

Student stories: From Diploma to UNSW

Read Mia’s story of narrowly missing direct entry to UNSW, finding her confidence at UNSW College, and stepping into second year at UNSW Sydney more prepared than she ever imagined.

UTS launches Teaching courses for 2027

UTS has launched its Primary and Secondary Teaching courses for 2027, now available for students to preference through UAC. The courses combine an undergraduate degree with a Master of Teaching, providing a pathway into a teaching career:

Primary Education
Secondary Education

Students can find out more about Education and Teaching at UTS, including course details and entry requirements, on the UTS Education website and UAC's course search.

New Industry Degree Academy (IDeA) cadetships

Help your students launch their IT careers from day one with the UTS Industry Degree Academy (IDeA). Combining university study with a paid industry role, IDeA enables students to earn while they learn, build professional networks and gain valuable industry experience throughout their degree.

For 2027, IDeA is expanding beyond Cybersecurity and Computer Science, with Artificial Intelligence joining the program and Games Development planned to be introduced. Through ongoing employment with industry partners, students graduate with both an IT qualification and practical experience that can help them transition into the workforce with confidence.

Encourage students interested in combining study with real-world industry experience to explore IDeA when considering their UAC preferences.

Online session: Applying to UTS – A UAC Guide for Parents and Carers

Join this online session designed specifically for parents and carers to gain the knowledge, confidence and practical advice needed to support prospective Undergraduate students through every step of the journey. We’ll cover the basics of the UAC process, preference tips and tricks and how to support your child during offer rounds.

Discover Sports and Exercise Science

Supporting students exploring a future in sport? Invite them to experience UTS Moore Park, where they’ll tour our specialised facilities, hear from academics and students, and gain insight into study options and careers in sport, health, and performance.

New pathways from diploma to bachelor degrees

Students interested in studying a Diploma in Business can now transition into second year of the Bachelor of Accounting after successfully completing the diploma. Similarly, students who complete the Diploma in Social Sciences can transition into second year of the Bachelor of Planning (Pathway to Master of Urban Management and Planning).

Associate Degree in Applied Policing

Western Sydney University has introduced the Associate Degree in Applied Policing program, delivered in partnership with the NSW Police Force. The program combines online study with training at the NSW Police Academy in Goulburn. 

Applications are submitted directly through Western Sydney University. 

Studying medicine at Western Sydney University: applications close 30 Sep

The five-year Bachelor of Clinical Science (Medicine)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) combines clinical science and medical studies, preparing students for a career in medicine and medical internship in Australia and New Zealand. Applications through UAC close Wed 30 Sep 2026, earlier than most undergraduate programs. Students should make sure their application is submitted by the closing date and includes program code 725505 as a preference. Late applications will not be considered.

Scholarship with Deloitte

Deloitte BrightStart gives Year 12 students the opportunity to combine university study with work from day one. Successful students join Deloitte in a permanent part-time role while completing a full-time, nationally recognised degree that is part-funded by Deloitte. 

At Western Sydney University, BrightStart is available to Year 12 students interested in studying: 

  • Bachelor of Engineering  
  • Bachelor of ICT  
  • Bachelor of Information Systems.

Students also receive on-the-job training, mentoring and support throughout their studies, gaining valuable skills and real-world experience while preparing for their future career. 

Entry and support programs

Subject adjustment factors (bonus points) 

An ATAR isn’t always the final selection rank. HSC and IB students may be eligible for up to 10 subject adjustment factors based on results in subjects relevant to their chosen degree at Western Sydney University. Adjustment factors are awarded automatically, with no application required. Check eligibility and see how a selection rank could be boosted. 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Entry Program 

Registrations are open for Western’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Entry Program. The next assessment period begins Thu 12 Nov, with online and on campus dates available until Tuesday 17 Nov. 

Free online HSC study sessions

From Mon 28 Sep to Wed 7 Oct 2026, Western Sydney University will be offering a series of free online study sessions to help Year 12 students prepare for the HSC. 

Delivered by highly qualified senior teachers, the program includes 22 free sessions across 14 key HSC subject areas. Each session includes content analysis, practical tips and strategies, and a detailed exploration of key syllabus and curriculum topics. 

Pathways into construction 

Western Sydney University has partnered with Tomorrow’s Women in Construction (TWIC) to inspire more young women to explore careers in construction, engineering, design and infrastructure. Students are invited to apply for TWIC’s Work Experience Program, which offers a week-long placement with a leading construction organisation to gain hands-on experience, meet industry mentors and discover the careers shaping Western Sydney.

Events

Maths in Action Day 

Designed for students in Years 10 to 12, Maths in Action will allow students to discover how maths can unlock new ways of thinking, solve problems and help them understand the world around them. Students will take part in interactive challenges, live demonstrations and conversations with Western Sydney University students and academics. Pizza lunch provided.

Social Sciences Immersion Day: Racing to Save Westville 

The School of Social Sciences at Western Sydney University invites Year 10, 11 and 12 students to take part in an interactive Social Sciences Immersion Day. Students will work in teams to tackle Racing to Save Westville, an Amazing Race-inspired challenge that explores real-world social issues through critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration. Participants will also connect with academics and current students while discovering what it's like to study social sciences and the diverse career opportunities available in the field. Registrations close on Thu 3 Sep.