Special consideration acknowledges unavoidable factors that disrupt your studies and recognises what you could have achieved if your circumstances were different. If your application is successful, your aggregate score is increased and then converted into your ATAR. You’ve got nothing to lose by applying, and your potential ranking adjustment could be the difference between receiving an offer and missing out.
To be eligible for consideration, you must:
You will also need to meet the individual requirements of one of the four categories of special consideration.
Deakin recognises four different categories of special consideration available through VTAC equity schemes (formerly SEAS). Learn about each category and find out how to apply.
Supports a range of students, including mature age applicants, Indigenous Australians, regional or remote applicants, students from under-represented schools or those from a non-English speaking background. You will be automatically considered for all these items even if you do not submit a VTAC equity schemes and scholarships application.
Designed to support applicants from a disadvantaged financial background, including recipients of Centrelink or those who have experienced individual or family poverty.
Applies to applicants who have experienced educational disadvantage due to any learning, physical, sensory, psychiatric or mental health medical condition, illness or disability.
Covers a range of circumstances, including natural disasters, homelessness, domestic violence, refugee status and other severe life disruptions.
We have a huge range of services in place to support every aspect of your university experience. From scholarships to career advice, we're here to set you up for a bright future.
If you don’t quite meet the entry requirements for your preferred course, the good news is there's other ways to get into your ultimate Deakin course. Use our pathways finder to discover what options may be available to you.
Our scholarships cater for students from all walks of life and personal situations. Use our scholarship tool to narrow your search.
If you’re applying for an undergraduate course that’s under-represented by your gender, you may be eligible for additional consideration that improves your chances of selection.
Your aggregate score can also be increased through subject adjustments. Depending on the course you’re applying for, completing related subjects in high school could boost your aggregate score – like if you’re applying for a Bachelor of Civil Engineering having achieved a study score of 30 in mathematical methods.
Find out more about subject adjustments in the entry requirements section (in the selection adjustments tab) on course pages.
Get an estimation of the ATAR adjustment you might be eligible for by using our handy special consideration calculator.
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
Apply with confidence. We're committed to giving you the guidance you need throughout the application process.
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