Discover your pathway to university

Finding a route to university doesn't have to be difficult. Deakin has a range of options to suit all types of circumstances, so whether you're a Year 12 student, moving from TAFE, or re-entering education, you can find a pathway to your dream course. You can take advantage of Deakin's pathways finder tool by typing in your chosen course, or if you're still deciding you can browse courses by interest area, and discover all the opportunities available to make your dream course a reality.

Visit the pathways finder

Get the support you need

If you didn’t get the ATAR you hoped for, it’s ok, there are plenty of ways to make your dream course a reality. Our friendly student advisers are here to help you every step of the way, so you feel confident about your future.

Learn more about Change of Preference

Didn't get the ATAR you wanted?

If you didn't quite get the ATAR you hoped for in your final year of high school, you haven't missed your opportunity to study at Deakin. There is a range of pathways into your dream degree, and the traditional path from Year 12 to uni is only one of them.

Transfer between campusesStart your course at a campus with a lower ATAR requirement, then apply to transfer to your desired campus after completing the specified number of units.

Browse locations
Transfer between coursesApply to study a course with similar subjects or major sequences, but a lower ATAR, and use this as a pathway into your ideal course.

Find a course
Associate degrees A Deakin associate degree in arts or education lets you study in a supported campus environment and provides a pathway into arts or education.

Learn more about associate degrees
Deakin College A Deakin College diploma can provide a fast-track pathway into Deakin undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

Learn more about Deakin College
Start at TAFE and transfer to Deakin Use TAFE study as a stepping stone into university. Related diplomas or advanced diplomas you've completed can count as credit towards your entry into Deakin.

Learn more about TAFE pathways

Moving from TAFE to university?

Using TAFE study as a stepping stone is a great way to transition into university. By studying a diploma or advanced diploma at TAFE and then applying to university, you'll graduate with two qualifications: one from TAFE and one from Deakin – turning you into a highly employable graduate on a path to success.

Entry from TAFE to Deakin By studying certain courses at one of Deakin's TAFE partners, you could gain entry into the Deakin course of your dreams, giving you the confidence and reassurance you need to concentrate on your goals.

Learn more about TAFE pathways
Recognition of prior learning (RPL) If you're completing a TAFE course that doesn't offer a pathway into Deakin, you could still use recognition of prior learning to gain credit for the work you've already done and reduce the amount of units you do at Deakin.

Learn more about RPL

Combining work and study?

Let us show you how to advance your professional life while balancing study around your important personal, family and work commitments. Coming to university to get your first degree, starting fresh after not finishing a previous degree, or even taking on postgraduate study are great ways to enhance your career prospects.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) If you're completing a TAFE course that doesn't offer a pathway into Deakin, you could still use recognition of prior learning to gain credit for the work you've already done and reduce the amount of units you do at Deakin.

Learn more about RPL
Associate degrees A Deakin associate degree in arts or education lets you study in a supported campus environment and provides a pathway into arts, business or education.

Learn more about associate degrees
Entry from TAFE to Deakin By studying certain courses at one of Deakin's TAFE partners, you could gain entry into the Deakin course of your dreams, giving you the confidence and reassurance you need to concentrate on your goals.

Learn more about TAFE pathways
Experience your tomorrow

Experience your tomorrow

Join us for Open Day this August to get course information, chat with your future teachers and current students, and enjoy fun entertainment. Plus, you have year-round opportunities to connect with Deakin, from in-person campus tours to unparalleled one-on-one support via our prospective student enquiry centre.

Need some career inspiration?

Need some career inspiration?

Need help navigating the transition from student to graduate to employee? We can help you power your career by finding the job or industry that suits you best. Browse our career stories for motivation and inspiration.

Pathways that look beyond your ATAR

Indigenous Access Scheme

The Indigenous Access Scheme recognises the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, considering the skills, experience and community work that prepares you for study.

Special Entry Access Scheme

The Special Entry Access Scheme acknowledges factors that can disrupt your studies, like illness, financial hardship and natural disasters, and improves your chance of securing a place in your dream course.

Deakin Regional Access Scheme

Do you want to finish Year 12 full of confidence? No matter where you live, you can apply for the Deakin Regional Access Scheme and receive a conditional offer long before your classmates.

Regional and Remote Entry Scheme

Boost your chances of getting into your dream degree with the Regional and Remote Entry Scheme. Year 12 students in regional and remote areas may be eligible for an alternative entry pathway into select sport and health courses.

Guaranteed pathways

Have you found your dream course but don't quite meet the entry requirements? Deakin's associate degrees offer a guaranteed study pathway to help make your career goals a reality.

Learn more about associate degrees

Pathways to your dream course

Pathways to your dream course

Did you know there is more than one path into your dream bachelor degree? Whether you've just finished school or are looking to get back into study, discover your pathway to university no matter your ATAR or education history.

Pathways to studying at Deakin

Pathways to studying at Deakin

If your ATAR isn't what you planned for, learn about changing your preferences and the pathways on offer through Deakin, Deakin College or our TAFE partners that can get you to your dream course.

Contact us

It's only natural to have lots of questions as you prepare for uni. Whether you want to learn more about our entry pathways or need advice, we're here to help you.

1800 693 888
Enquire online