News

News from our institutions - December 2020

01 Dec 2020

Australian Catholic University

Study a Bachelor of Arts (Western Civilisation) with help from a $90,000 scholarship

Applications are now open for the Bachelor of Arts (Western Civilisation) at ACU. Throughout this degree students will explore the past, present and future of Western intellectual life. They’ll develop skills that will prepare them for leadership roles in government, business, social enterprises and the arts.

Students completing this course may also be eligible to receive one of 30 scholarships valued at $90,000 ($30,000 per year).

Apply now direct to ACU

Know Your Options

Come along to Know Your Options, where you can talk to experts about your course and career path, learn about alternative entry and admission pathways, as well as explore one of our campuses.

This year we are holding Know Your Option events at our North Sydney, Blacktown and Canberra campuses. We will also be holding a live Q&A session on Facebook. You will be able to receive relevant information regarding the Strathfield Campus at any of these events.

These events will occur after HSC results and ATARs are released.

  • North Sydney Campus – 18 December, 2pm–4pm. Register now.
  • Facebook Messenger Q&A – 18 December, 11am–2pm. Register now.
  • Blacktown Campus – 19 December, 10am–2pm. Register now.
  • Canberra Campus – 19 December, 10am–5pm. Register now.

Griffith University

Guaranteed admission

Griffith University offers Guaranteed Admissions Schemes including the ATAR 90+/IB 33+ Guarantee, the ATAR 80+/IB28+ Guarantee and the VET Guarantee for selected degrees. These schemes provide certainty about future study options and more opportunities for students from a range of backgrounds by guaranteeing you a place in the program irrespective of the minimum selection rank. Applicants must still meet subject prerequisites and any other selection criteria for admission. Find out more.

GUESTS applications still open for Trimester 1, 2021

The GUESTS program offers motivated students the opportunity to sample their degree and make a start on their university studies by completing a course while in Year 11 and 12. Benefits include 2 adjustments per course completed when applying for your degree, academic credit and digital badges.

If you have any Year 11’s interested in applying for Trimester 1, 2021 we will continue to consider applications until 21 February 2021 should places still be available in the study area of choice. We encourage students to submit their application as soon as possible so that they can enrol into classes that may suit their school timetable.

Comprehensive information about the GUESTS program.

Important change for UAC applicants

Griffith University has withdrawn the Bachelor of Creative Industries effective from Trimester 1, 2021 onwards. An alternate degree suitable for students interested in Creative Industries is the Bachelor of Arts. Information on other degrees on offer at Griffith University and their admission requirements are available here.

International College of Management,Sydney (ICMS)

Seven intakes per year

All undergraduate and postgraduate programs offered by International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS), and pathway providers Aspire Institute and the International Sport College Australia (ISCA), will now offer an additional four new intakes – giving more opportunities for students to enrol throughout the year. The new intake dates and calendar takes effect from 2021. Learn more.

Book a school talk

The 2021 ICMS Domestic Recruitment calendar is starting to fill quickly. Please schedule in your school talk now, specifying your preference for online or in-person. Email Nadia Hawdon at nhawdon@icms.edu.au.

Aspire Institute COVID-19 Diploma Entry Requirements

Aspire Institute is a pathway provider offering stand-alone diploma qualifications which also give students a possible pathway to the second year of a bachelor's degree at the following universities: UTS, Uni of Wollongong, Uni of Newcastle, Griffith Uni and UNISA, as well to the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS). Aspire Institute will not disadvantage year 12 students completing the HSC in 2020 or 2021 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. For students completing year 12 in 2020 and 2021, where results are not sufficient or available, the institution may take into consideration results achieved in Year 11 for entry into the institution. Applicants must have been enrolled in year 12 in 2020 or 2021 to be eligible. Learn more.

Macquarie University

COVID-19 Impact Points

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the educational environment across Australia in 2020.

Macquarie recognises the significant impact this has had on people and the considerable anxiety and stress related to university entry for 2021.

To reassure prospective students and their families of Macquarie’s commitment to supporting access to higher education and studying at Macquarie Uni, all domestic applicants (applying for 2021) will automatically receive five COVID-19 Impact Points.

Students will not have to apply for these additional adjustment factors as they will be automatically applied via their Universities Admission Centre (UAC) application.

These additional adjustment factors can be used for admission to all courses except our Actuarial degrees (and double degree combinations) and Co-op programs.

Explore Your Options Week at Macquarie Uni

Some people expect you to make up your mind about your future in a single day. At Macquarie we give you more than a week to explore your options.

Starting on Wednesday 16 December, through to Wednesday 23 December 2020, we’ll be available for one-on-one consultations, enrolment support and campus tours.

We understand every student is different and with so many choices, we are on hand to help you work through what’s best for you.

Join us on a day, time and even a mode that suits you.

Register here.

Introducing our new on campus accommodation

Designed as part of the Central Courtyard precinct, our new premium accommodation offers 342 rooms.

You have the choice of studio, twin, four or six bedroom apartments in this university-owned and managed accommodation.

Your study and living experiences will be connected in a supportive, inclusive and healthy environment.

Opening in early 2021, this exciting new student accommodation will become the buzz on campus.

Find out more here.

Campus tours

Join us for a guided tour around the Macquarie campus, with an option to chat with one of our current students to have all your questions answered.

Book here.

Book a phone or online consultation

Do you have specific questions about your study options at Macquarie? Do you need assistance with exploring our courses, understanding entry criteria or wish to find out more about university life?

You can book a 30-minute personal consultation with one of our expert student advisors. This is your opportunity to talk through your individual circumstances and ask questions you may have.

Select the date and time that suits.

Book here.

SAE

Virtual info night

SAE Creative Media Institute is hosting a Virtual Info Night on Thursday 10 December, 6pm–8pm (AEDT).

If students are considering studying creative media (Animation, Audio, Creative Industries, Design, Film, Games or Web & Mobile) then we invite them to register for the event where they will hear from industry-experienced lecturers, watch campus videos, view student showcases, enrol to study and chat live with future mentors. View upcoming SAE events.

Study grants

SAE has also launched Study Grants for our February 2021 intake. Cash grants and scholarships are available. More information about grants.

Torrens University

We want your passion. Not your ATAR.

We have strong evidence to demonstrate that an ATAR score is not a true representation of a student’s future success. So we are proud to announce that we have removed ATAR as a primary entry requirement, for good.

Instead, we focus on the student’s individuality and the passion and strengths they bring to the table. Then we help them build from there and support them every step of the way towards a career they will love. Because we value passionate humans rather than perfect performances.

If students have an Australian secondary school certificate, they are eligible to apply for admission to 300+ purposefully created courses we offer.*

Students can find out more about our pathways to entry, scholarship opportunities and upcoming events on our website, and see where their passion can lead them. To speak to a Course and Careers Advisors call 1300 575 803.

*Exceptions may apply to some courses.

University of Canberra

Course Advice Day, 15 January 2021

Taking the next step from high school to university can be overwhelming. UC’s Course Advice Day is an opportunity for your students to get all the information and support they need with applications, enrolments and starting their new chapter at UC.

We can help your students kickstart their tertiary journey by providing one-on-one assistance with applying, accepting their offer, or enrolling in units. We will have all of our support services, pathway programs, accommodation providers and helpful staff on hand to answer any questions. Save the date: Friday 15 January 2021.

Future student enquiries and Christmas shutdown

Our future student team is available 10am–4pm Monday to Friday and can be contacted on 1800 864 226 or study@canberra.edu.au .The University of Canberra will be closed from Friday 25 of December until Sunday 3 January 2021 inclusive.

University of Newcastle

5 COVID adjustment points

In response to the COVID-19 crisis and in recognition of the extraordinary challenges the 2020 Year 12 HSC cohort has faced the University of Newcastle is providing applicants with an additional 5 adjustment points (except for Joint Medical Program). Learn more.

2021 undergraduate info session

Students can join the University of Newcastle virtually on Friday 18 December, 10am–2pm, to talk to the team about degrees, changing preferences, alternative entry options, accommodation and more. Register here for a one-on-one session.

Year 12 hotline

The University of Newcastle has established a hotline to help year 12 students find the answers to their questions. Call 1300 275 866 and select option 3.

New free program – transition to uni

Starting on 1 February, the University Preparation Program (UPP) has been designed to help students make a successful transition to university and to support them through their studies.

New degrees for 2021

Click on the degree title below to view webinars and learn more.

UNSW

UNSW Info Day – on campus, Saturday 19 December

Before finalising their preferences, students can visit UNSW’s Kensington campus for last-minute course advice and to immerse themselves in the student experience. They can get all their questions answered at Info Day.

What’s on at the UNSW Info Day:

  • Degree advice consultations: personalised advice about degree and career opportunities.
  • Student Experience sessions: insights and tips from current students, plus meet with staff from Admissions, Scholarships and Accommodation.

Students can register to visit an Advisory Centre, Student Experience Zone, or both. Places are available throughout the day. Spaces are limited and tickets are required to help us provide a COVID-safe experience, so encourage students to register here now.

Join us:

  • UNSW Info Day
  • Saturday 19 December, 10am–3pm
  • On-campus, Kensington
Can’t make it to campus?

Students can join online for the UNSW Info Evening from 3pm–7pm on Friday 18 December to engage with a range of interactive online talks from academics and students and get unique insights on their areas of study through our Student Ambassador Livestreams. If they have preferenced a UNSW degree, they will receive a link via email and SMS that contains the Info Evening event link, otherwise they can join on the day here. Registration is not required for the online event.

UNSW Arts, Architecture & Design Scholarships

UNSW is pleased to announce a number of new scholarships for students who are interested in undertaking an undergraduate degree in the areas of Arts & Social Sciences, Art & Design and Built Environment commencing in Term 1, 2021. The scholarships are designed to support commencing students with their education and provide additional opportunities to study with us. More information can be found on the UNSW website.

UNSW Bachelor of Social Science

The UNSW Bachelor of Social Research & Policy has been renamed the Bachelor of Social Science. We’ve made some exciting changes to the program to ensure students gain the knowledge and skills they need to analyse and challenge complex social, environmental and political problems. The new Bachelor of Social Science also provides the opportunity to put theory into practice through a structured and supported work placement. Find out more.

A new and topical major within UNSW science degrees

UNSW Science offers a topical new major in 2021, Immunology. It can be taken in the Bachelor of Science, Advanced Science, Medical Science and Life Sciences and some combined degrees. It introduces the multiple components of the immune system followed by applied and clinical aspects of immunology. The practical program introduces critical immunological techniques such as immune cell stimulation, immunological assays and flow cytometry. Find out more.

UNSW Medicine interview process changes

Due to the current situation with COVID-19 and related travel restrictions, UNSW Medicine has made the decision to conduct all interviews for entry into the BMed/MD program for Term 1, 2021 online. This means that shortlisted applicants will not be required to come to our Sydney campus for a face-to-face interview but will instead join the interview online from home.

There have been no changes to:

  • how applicants are selected for an interview
  • the interview format
  • the interview dates.

They can find all relevant details on our how to apply website.

The interviews will be conducted using Zoom, and if an applicant is offered an interview, detailed instructions and a personalised link to a Zoom meeting will be emailed on the dates advertised on our Important Dates website. More information on the online interview, technical requirements etc. can be found on our Selection for Interview website, in the ‘How do interviews work?’ section.

For Year 12 students who received a UNSW Gateway early conditional offer for 2021

Please remind students that their degree offer included in their conditional offer letter must be their UAC highest eligible preference. Students who have an ATAR at or above the Gateway adjusted ATAR listed in their conditional offer letter will receive a firm offer to study at UNSW in the UAC December Round 2.

UNSW 2021 Educational Outreach Program

UNSW’s 2021 Educational Outreach Program is now available for Gateway partner schools. The Program includes the Gateway Admissions Pathway and Program with key dates and important information on how to get your school involved. Download the program today.

Western Sydney University

Western Webinar Series

At Western, we are continually developing resources to provide further information on entry offers, pathway information and the re-imagined HSC True Reward Early Offer Program. New webinars are continually added to our live schedule.

Upcoming webinars in November include the Western Experience, and Campus tours and Course Decision support. In December, webinars focus on Your HSC True Reward Early Offer, What can I do with my ATAR results? and a Course decision session. Webinars will be held in February 2021 commencing with a Course decision session.

To view previous webinars on-demand, visit the Western Webinar page.

Campus tours

We encourage students to come and explore all Western Sydney University has to offer. Prospective students, their family and the general public can take one of our guided Campus Tours and see what life at Western is really like.

Tour our lecture theatres and teaching spaces, stroll through our campus libraries, and visit some of our world-class facilities, where students gain hands-on, practical experience. They will speak to academic staff, current and past students while having the opportunity to learn more about the various degrees on offer, course selection, living on campus and university life.

Tour dates for 2020 are Monday 30 November – Friday 11 December. Visit the Campus Tours page for more information.

Western Sydney University scholarships

Western Sydney University offers over $25 million in scholarships, grants and prizes. Our range of scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership and community involvement, and support motivated students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Scholarships are not only available to high achievers but cover a broad range of criteria including those with long-term family difficulties, people from rural or remote areas, course selection and community involvement initiatives.

Find out what scholarships are on offer for you.

International onshore study

Western is pleased to announce that we are now accepting direct applications via Studylink for all onshore HSC Year 12 international students. All Year 11 international students going into Year 12 in 2021, will be eligible to apply under these new changes in preparation for 2022 university admissions.

Courses excluded from the Early Offer are Doctor of Medicine; Dean’s Scholars and Advanced courses; B Physiotherapy; Podiatric Medicine; B Occupational Therapy; B Speech Pathology; B Health Science (Paramedicine); B Music (Due to audition).

All international onshore students with HSC Year 12 completion in 2020 will receive a guaranteed $6,000 Multiyear Scholarship via direct application for 2021 Autumn/Spring intake commencement. Western Sydney University cares deeply about our international students and is doing everything possible to support them during this difficult time.

For more information, email apply@westernsydney.edu.au.

Unlocking careers in sport for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, Wednesday 2 December 9.30am–1pm.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander high school students are invited to join us for this online event where Western Sydney University staff, students and industry professionals will take you through all the different paths to a career in sports. They can find out about the wide range of health professionals that keep the athletes match fit, the law and business teams that keep everything running, and all the teams behind the scenes.

Find out more and register here.