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Application procedures for tertiary study

University applications
TAFE applications
Private colleges and other private providers
Accommodation
Scholarships
Early/alternate entry

Most students decide to submit an application for tertiary study. Many jobs require training either before commencing the position or during the first years of employment. For others there is an ongoing commitment to training.

The major training and education providers are:

• universities TAFE colleges
• private colleges and providers.

if your child wishes to combine employment with education or training, options include the New Apprenticeships Scheme , cooperative education scholarships or cadetships in such areas as accountancy, engineering or information technology.

University applications

Applications to universities in NSW or the ACT are handled through the University Admissions Centre (UAC). All current Year 12 students receive a UAC Guide through their school early in Term 3.

Before applying to the UAC your child should:

• study the UAC Guide carefully contact relevant institutions for relevant information
• discuss his or her preferences with the school’s careers adviser.

Once your child has finalised preferences, application can be made to UAC in one of two methods:

(i) by telephone via the “Apply by Phone” line or
(ii) over the Internet via “Apply by Web”.

There is an application fee for either method.

Applications close at midnight on a specified date in mid to late September. Late applications will be accepted but for a fee.

If your child wishes to change preferences or check on his or her current list of preferences, this can be done:

(i) on the UAC web site at no cost
(ii) through the UAC Infoline at a cost.

Check with the University Admissions Centre for the closing dates. This information is also in the UAC Guide.

TAFE applications

The TAFE Handbook outlines all TAFE courses at all colleges in NSW and is available from newsagencies. Information is also available on the TAFE web site.

Your child should study the TAFE Handbook carefully and seek advice before completing any application.

For the majority of TAFE courses students need to submit an individual application form to each individual TAFE college for each course they wish to apply for. Your child should make sure that he or she makes application to every TAFE college that provides the desired course, because applications are not transferable. Application forms are available in the TAFE Handbook, from TAFE colleges and from most schools. The TAFE web site has information on the closing dates for applications.

For advice and assistance, students can make an appointment with a TAFE student counsellor or promotions officer at their local TAFE college.

Private colleges and other private providers

Autonomous educational institutions or trainers each have their own selection criteria, fee structure and application procedures. Each one needs to be contacted and applied to individually.

Accommodation

Your child may not be able to commute daily to the university or institution of choice. Most institutions have a range of student accommodation, ranging from full room and board to self-catering shared flats. The cost varies according to the number of services provided. Student accommodation can be a significant financial issue and should be considered in the planning stages of any tertiary education.

Each institution will have its own policy and procedures for students who need to arrange accommodation.

As places for accommodation are frequently limited, you would be wise to investigate the options well in advance.

Early in September, students need to approach each institution which they may want to attend and check carefully on closing dates, style of accommodation, application procedures and deposits.

Scholarships

Most institutions offer scholarships in a range of different course areas. Your child will need to approach the preferred institutions and enquire about scholarships in his or her course area.

Information about scholarships is usually available from the institution’s web site. Many institutions and organisations which offer scholarships send information to schools throughout the year. Contact the careers adviser for details.

Early or alternate entry program

Some universities operate early or alternate entry programs for HSC students. Entry through these programs is based on criteria set by the university rather than on the UAI a student receives. Information about these programs is mailed to schools by the universities. Information can also be obtained from the UAC website