Pathways to Deakin
There are many pathways that can lead you to studying at Deakin.
TAFE pathways
Deakin recognises TAFE study as entry criteria for many Deakin courses
If you undertake an eligible TAFE course in a field similar to the Deakin course of your choice, you may be able to gain Credit for Prior Learning towards your Deakin degree.
This will reduce the number of units you need to complete to obtain your degree and you will also benefit from having not one but two qualifications - one from TAFE and the other from Deakin.
In particular, Deakin has partnerships with:
- Box Hill Institute
- Chisholm Institute
- The Gordon in Geelong
- South West Institute of TAFE in Warrnambool.
If your TAFE isn't a Deakin partner, or you want to study in a field that's unrelated to your TAFE course, you're still welcome to apply for courses at Deakin.
All applications for Trimester One undergraduate courses are made through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) unless otherwise stated in the admission guidelines.
You can submit an application for Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) during or after the degree application process.
Note International students have special application requirements.
Melbourne Institute of Business and Technology (MIBT)
A direct pathway to study at Deakin
Study at MIBT gives you a direct pathway to undergraduate study at Deakin in areas such as: business and commerce, computing and information technology, engineering, health sciences, management, media and communications, science.
Advantages
- three intakes a year (in March, June and October)
- option to fast track your program
- small classes and individual attention
- free study support workshops
- access to all Deakin University facilities and services
More information: view the MIBT page.
Deakin at Your Doorstep
Introducing school leavers and non-school leavers to university in a supported tertiary environment
Deakin at Your Doorstep gives students in rural and regional areas greater access to higher education by providing the opportunity to study close to home.
Courses studied via Deakin at Your Doorstep are delivered through state-of-the-art technology in purpose built learning centres throughout Victoria.
Courses available in 2013
Mature age students
Non-school leavers and mature age students are encouraged to apply to Deakin
If you are a non-school leaver or mature age student you may need to fulfil alternative entry requirements when applying for Deakin courses.
Credit for prior learning
Many mature age and non-school leaver students may be eligible for credit for prior learning.
Entry requirements, tests and forms
Depending on the course, there may be additional requirements for entry. Please ensure you check these before applying.
The following may be listed as a course requirement for non-year 12 applicants:
Special Tertiary Admissions Test
The STAT is an aptitude test designed to assess a range of competencies commonly considered important for success in tertiary study.
There are two types of STAT tests, however Deakin only requires applicants to sit the STAT: Multiple Choice, a 2 hour test of 70 questions.
If required, you will need to book for the STAT via VTAC.
Australian Laws School Entrance Test (ALSET)
The ALSET is compulsory for most non-year 12 applicants applying for entry in any of Deakin University's undergraduate law programs. It is an aptitude test given to appraise your ability to think critically about issues and understand the material given. The questions are based on a wide range of law related stimulus materials.
If you are unsure whether or not you need to sit the ALSET, please contact us on 03 5227 1277.
If required, book for the ALSET via VTAC.
VTAC Personal History online
'VTAC Personal History online' provides non-year 12 applicants with an opportunity to bring to the attention of selection officers (who will have access to your completed form during selection) any relevant factors or circumstances that cannot be included in the application itself.
Access it online via VTAC once you have registered and submitted your course application.
Mid-year and Trimester 3 intake
Undergraduate courses may be offered in Trimester 2 and 3. Applications for these courses are made directly to Deakin. Find out more about how to apply.
Transfer from another university
We welcome students from other universities who want to finish their studies at Deakin.
If you're currently studying at another university and wish to transfer to Deakin to finish your degree, you can apply for credit for prior learning during your application. Find out how to apply for a course.
Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI)
DUELI helps you reach the English language requirements for Deakin courses
DUELI is one of Australia's leading providers of English language programs and offers many study options. Our aim is to help you to use English to the best of your ability.
On arrival you will be assessed and placed in an English language course appropriate to your English language skills and study plans.
If you meet Deakin's academic entrance criteria but don't meet the English language requirements for your course, you will automatically be eligible for placement at DUELI.
More information
- See the DUELI web pages for course details, how to apply, fees, important dates and more.
- Ask a question

